The Top 14 were off to a slow start tonight on So You Think You Can Dance, but there were a few numbers that excited me. Last week, you voted for Noelle Marsh & Russell Ferguson’s Afro Jazz number as the best routine. What about tonight? Be sure to vote in the poll below! Videos of the performances (from MJ) and my recap NOW:

MY BOTTOM 3 COUPLES: Karen Hauer & Kevin Hunte, Noelle Marsh & Russell Ferguson, and Mollee Gray & Nathan Trasoras

Ashleigh Di Lello & Jakob Karr – Hip Hop by Tabitha & Napoleon - “Whatcha Say” by Jason Derulo (VIDEO): Mmmmm, whatcha saaay? Did Ashleigh & Jakob sell this number? I thought it was a very standard, angsty Tabitha & Napoleon Hip Hop routine on betrayal: pained, heartbroken looks of anguish, the “snow angel” arm swings out, the spazzy explosions of emotion - much like the famous “Bleeding Love” dance that Chelsie Hightower & Mark Kanemura did Season 4 (Re-watch it!). Now I’m not as in LOVE with Ash as the judges suddenly are (I mean they LOOOVE her now), but she was great at emoting the hurt expressions of “Ya good fer nuthin douchebag! I can’t believe you’re cheating on me!” They both did a good job and have become a couple that I look forward to watching.

Karen Hauer & Kevin Hunte – Broadway by Spencer Liff - “If My Friends Could See Me Now” from Sweet Charity 2005 Broadway Revival (VIDEO): Okay, so this was not good choreography or music. No disrespect to Christina Applegate who sang it, but it was just such a small, understated, simple song and the choreography was pretty blah to watch. I thought both dancers did fine with what they were given, but they were given a drab routine. Who is this Spencer Liff guy? He’s pretty cute, actually, but this was not an impressive choreography debut. I’m worried about them, well about Karen especially…

Noelle Marsh & Russell Ferguson – Foxtrot by Eddie Simon - “Baby (You’ve Got What It Takes)” by Michael Buble (VIDEO): The judges really went batty for this, but I thought it was another unmemorable number of the night. And Hair and Makeup did not do Noelle any favors because they managed to age her normally exhuberant smiley face into a matronly, Plain Jane look. Russell did have some lovely moments, but for me they were a bit sloppy in the choreography AND the choreography itself bored me.

Channing Cooke & Victor Smalley – Jazz by Tyce DiOrio - “Blackbird” by Bobby McFerrin (VIDEO): The rehearsal footage really reminded me about why I cannot stand Tyce DiOrio. He’s a a-hole with a gnarly dental floss-thin beard who relishes being an a-hole because…I dunno, maybe because he likes to imagine himself as some fabulous, brilliant, demanding choreographer like we see in movies. Ugh. TANGENT, sorry. Like Adam, I was really distracted by the song choice. I loooove “Blackbird”, but this version by Bobby McFerrin was too odd and the a capella styling didn’t bring any life to the otherwise quirky number. I also agreed with Nigel that this is the first time you could tell that Channing enjoyed the dance because you saw a glimmer of her (otherwise huge) personality come through. Dancers should be actors though, and if she can’t stop being so guarded, then I dunno if she should stay in the competition. I didn’t even notice Victor, really - but the judges did…they noticed that he may be plateauing in his talent, and want him to push harder to avoid getting lost in the crowd.

Kathryn McCormick & Legacy Perez – Paso Doble by Tony Meredith - “Pursuit” from Ka Cirque du Soleil (VIDEO): Whoa, what was that plotline, Tony Meredith? Did I hear that Legacy is an Admiral returning from sea and Kathryn is his concubine?? That is hilarious - I love it! I’ve said many times that I’m a Paso Doble fan cuz of the drama and the hot, hot heat sexiness. Well this dance should be an example to the previous choreographers that I griped to: the music was perfect for this routine. Legacy was really damn excellent in his role - very stern, brooding and shirtless (a shame his voice is high-pitched, but he’s growing on me - I admit it). Kathryn also hit her moves with a POW, flinging her dress around with the right amount of flair. Nigel pointed out that she redeemed herself for her cornball Broadway performance last week. Erin is pleased, si. Me gusta.

Ellenore Scott & Ryan Di Lello – Contemporary by Travis Wall - “Your Ex-Lover’s Dead” by Stars (VIDEO): Sassy Ellenore and ripped Ryan gotta worrrrrk this because their Hip Hop stank so badly last week. This is more up their alley, and Travis Wall doesn’t disappoint. The camera work is more cinematic, Ryan’s shirt is off - this should be good. At first, I was enjoying the song more than the routine because it was just a mix of a bunch of Contemporary moves that I’ve seen before (she jumps into his arms and stops; he cartwheels slowly over her and lands so it’s like they’re doinnn it; etc). But THEN, it really picked up in the middle when the music crescendos (again, there’s so much credit to be given to musicality and song choice, choreographers!). I mean, these two just totally committed themselves and threw themselves into the synchronized dancing, ending with a bang as Ellenore made that gigantic leap (of faith) into Ryan’s arms. Wow. I gotta re-watch that. Ellenore is praised for being a chameleon and being uhh-mazing at everything. The judges love them and say they are one of the first “WOW” dances of the season.

Mollee Gray & Nathan Trasoras – Pop Jazz by Laurieann Gibson - “Bad Romance” by Lady Gaga (VIDEO): Dear Tyce, follow Laurieann’s lead to see how a REAL diva choreographer acts. I love her with the shouting and the pink headphones, and the “Boom KAT!” beat counting. Whip these whippersnappers into shape, Laurieann! She wanted them to be fierce and give goosebumps. I didn’t get goosebumps, but it was an okay number. Not the worst of the night, but not really something to write home about. Nathan was wearing suspenders like a Newsie off of work and Mollee was wearing a bad 80’s party dress - wtf? The routine was also peppered by odd little moves like *piano playing gesture*, *boxing fists*, *hippity hoppity in one place*. And um, these two are the “youngest couple” and painted to be very PG-rated, so I threw up a smidge when I think they were simulating doggie style or some other such bedroom behavior. Grossssss. Can I just point out that for all of the judges’ talk that Mollee & Nathan are soo young and immature at barely 18 and 19, but hello? Jeanine Mason - yknow, last season’s winner? She was also barely 18 at the time and she was super fantastic and mature. So no excuses! Age ain’t nuthin but a number. I’m falling off the Nathan wagon, y’all…He’s so cute, but he’s been underwhelming. Boo.

Tomorrow night, one lad and one lassie will be cut from the competition on So You Think You Can Dance. Tune in and be sure to fill out the poll on your way out: WHICH TOP 14 COUPLE GAVE THE BEST PERFORMANCE?

Tonight our Top 8 dance-dance-DANCED for us on So You Think You Can Dance. We got Mia Michaels as a guest judge along with “who invited her to the party?” talk-show host, Ellen DeGeneres. K, I like her, but just cuz Ellen does goofy dancing on her show doesn’t mean she’s an expert for the panel. Sers! We got new couples and the judges all refused to use adverbs proper(LY), but let’s move on to the dancing.

Each pair did two numbers and then all 8 dancers did a solo. Videos (from MJ) and recaps below:

MY BOTTOM GUY & GIRL: Evan Kasprzak & Melissa Sandvig (she’s actually one of my faves but I’m being objective here)

GROUP ROUTINE: Choreographed by Travis Wall - “Let It Rock” by Kevin Rudolph ft. Lil Wayne (VIDEO): The dancers are all doing some hippity Contemporary to this rock/Hip Hop song, wearing Lite Brites and glowing Geordi LaForge visors in the dark. It was aight, can’t complain.

Janette Manrara & Evan Kasprzak - Jazz by Sonya Tayeh  - “Move” by CSS (VIDEO): For me, it’s Evan’s time to go home this week. He just doesn’t bring enough passion and ownership of the dances compared to the other three guys. He has the “aw shucks”, shrugged shoulders attitude which may work for old fashioned Broadway style dancing, but makes his other performances so pedestrian. I was focused on Janette during most of this number cuz she hit the moves like boom, boom, pow(!), and Evan, well, he was there in the background…

Janette & Evan - 2nd Dance - Rumba by Tony Meredith and Melanie LaPatin - “Heartless” by Kris Allen (VIDEO): Wow, this song sounded way better when Kris “Monkey Jaw” Allen sang it on American Idol. Again, Janette stole the spotlight and I thought I saw Evan falter in the beginning and at the end on some steps, but the judges didn’t mention it so maybe I’m cuhrazeh? I preferred Melissa & Ade’s Rumba from a few weeks ago to this one. A little dark and empty for me.

Jeanine Mason & Brandon Bryant - Waltz by Hunter Johnson - “May It Be” by Hayley Westenra (VIDEO): Wow, SNOOZE CRUISE alert! Poor Jeanine got stuck wearing this totally unflattering canary yellow dress. The judges weren’t too pleased with this Waltz and neither was I. It was so uninteresting, especially coming from two of the strongest dancers of the season. I thought these two would be a dream couple, but this Waltz did them ZERO favors. Yeech. Skip it!

Jeanine & Brandon - 2nd Dance - Pop Jazz by Laurieann Gibson - “Battlefield” by Jordin Sparks (VIDEO): This dance was a big improvement, but I was NOT feeling it as much as the cracked out judges. Nigel was suddenly raving like a mad man about how much he loved it, and he sort of peer pressured Mary into Hot Tamale Train-ing the dance. What I liked was the energy and strength, but I had problems with the fact that Jeanine was slightly ahead of Brandon’s moves in parts of the dance! Right? Who else caught that? They definitely weren’t that together so I was distracted - it was like the “boot camp” rehearsals with Laurieann effed with Jeanine’s head so she was overcompensating to keep up with her partner. Still, they got the judges’ love and methinks America loves them too - should be safe tomorrow.

Melissa Sandvig & Ade Obayomi - Cha-Cha by Tony Meredith and Melanie LaPatin - “Yeah (Como Goza Mi Morena)” by Chino Espinoza Y Los Dueños Del Sol (VIDEO): I was so happy to see Melissa & Ade reunite, but yikes, this dance wasn’t good at all. Love her old ass as I do, Melissa was really weak in the Cha-Cha. She didn’t possess much fire or hip action and looked uncomfortable attempting to do so and that was all I could focus on. Unfortunately, because this was one of the weakest dances, I think Melissa may be going home tomorrow. The other three gals are just incredibly strong and deserve to stay longer. The only highlight was Ellen’s tongue-in-cheek comment, mocking the terrible puns that usually come from Mary and Nigel, “Are you two carpenters? …Cuz you NAILED it!” (Note: Ellen didn’t have anything bad/constructive to say about any dance tonight, so her reviews don’t really count).

Melissa & Ade - 2nd Dance - Contemporary by Tyce DiOrio - “This Woman’s Work” by Maxwell (VIDEO): So this emotional dance about breast cancer had every judge on the panel in absolute tears (except Ellen). Yes, that means Nigel was choked up and crying, Mary’s tears left tracks in her make-up and Mia was absolutely sobbing during her critique. I love this song, I love this couple, I loved the emotion Melissa brought to it, I loved Ade’s sweet strength, but I was honestly more moved by the judges’ reactions than by the dance itself. Maybe I just had really high expectations because I’d heard rumors that it was so powerful… but I’m not sure I agree with Nigel that this is one for the SYTYCD history books. I’ll remember it for breaking down the judges, but the dance itself wasn’t too memorable for me.

Kayla Radomski & Jason Glover - Broadway by Tyce DiOrio - “Mr. Monotony” from Jerome Robbins Broadway by Kim Criswell (VIDEO): This was a swanky, smooth number. I appreciated Kayla’s dancing tonight more than the other girls - she has grace, style and performs really well as each “character”. Her personality off the dance floor? Well, that’s another story (a.k.a. bor-ring!). Grandpappy Radomski was back in the audience just splitting at the seams with pride and, as I always say, he’s the real reason why I like watching Kayla dance.

Kayla & Jason - 2nd Dance - Hip Hop by Shane Sparks - “They’re Everywhere” by Izza Kizza (VIDEO): After his previous Hip Hop numbers failed this season, I’m sure Mr. Sparks was out for redemption. Luckily, he had strong dancers as a resource and made a Michael Jackson Thriller-esque zombie dance. It was very entertaining and Kayla & Jason have good chemistry together. I do wonder how Tabitha & Napoleon felt after hearing Nigel say he’d been disappointed in the Hip Hop this season? Back-stabbed!

SOLOS

Kayla Radomski’s solo - “The Moment I Said It” by Imogen Heap (VIDEO): One of Kayla’s better solos in the past weeks. She showed a lot of control, really breathed into her movements and hit some beautiful lines.

Jason Glover’s solo - “…Slowdance On The Inside” by Taking Back Sunday (VIDEO) - Pretty boring, actually. Just lots of split leaps and stuff.

Janette Manrara’s solo - “Seduces Me” by Celine Dion (VIDEO) - She slowed it down and I really missed her quick, hot Salsa solos. It was okay, but not much of a stand-out for me.

Ade Obayomi’s solo - “Hater” by Various Artists Production (VIDEO) - A much, much improved solo from last week’s. His musicality was way stronger on this number and he was unique, a little odd, and did some powerful leaps and spins - please keep Ade, America! How can you resist that cheshire cat smile?

Melissa Sandvig’s solo - “Headless” by The Yeah Yeah Yeahs (VIDEO) - Totally more interesting than last week’s slooow ballet solo. It came off a bit 80’s and Flashdance-y, but that’s not really a bad thing. I just don’t know if it’s enough to save her. Waaah.

Evan Kasprazak’s solo - “Old Devil Moon” by Jamie Cullum (VIDEO) - He dropped his prop hat and had crazy armpit sweat stains, but I thought he was charming and loved the flip he did. (That doesn’t change the fact that I want him to go home already.)

Jeanine Mason’s solo - “Let the Drummer Kick” by Citizen Cope (VIDEO): Vewy intewesting. Man, Jeanine is thick, isn’t she? It’s sorta distracting, but that’s not to say she isn’t very talented. Nice song selection on her part, and was one of the best girls’ solos of the night.

Brandon Bryant’s solo - performed to “Ain’t Nothing Wrong with That” by Robert Randolph and the Family Band (VIDEO): Brandon is a pack of dynamite. I could watch him dance for hours. Keep this mofo around, even if he’s kinda annoying in rehearsal footage.

Tomorrow night is the big, FAT 100th So You Think You Can Dance episode EXTRAVAGANZA! We’ll be graced with Wade Robson, famous routines from past seasons (I hope they’ll be re-danced by previous contestants, but I won’t hold my breath) and Katie Holmes dances a tribute to Judy Garland. Plus, we find out which guy and gal get sent home - it’s getting tough to predict… Be sure to tune in!

What the WHAT? America is always stanking things up! I’m okay with who went home tonight on So You Think You Can Dance (Randi “unitard girl” Strong-Evans and my Hawaiian honey, Kupono Aweau), but I’m very disappointed that Melissa & Ade were in the bottom! Haters. More ranting below and of course, videos from tonight’s show (by MJ):

GROUP DANCE: (song: “So Much Betta by Janet Jackson) - The gang do some dramatic pop jazzy dance which is filled with pan-Asian stereotypes: red lanterns, conical hats, geisha-style hair/make-up/attire, dragon ladies, ninjas. I found myself wondering, “Where are the firecrackers and Lion dancers? Why isn’t Mr. Miyagi there teaching Crane kicks to Mulan?” Ugh. It was aight and featured Melissa in her ballerina glory as some…high-ranking geisha princess? I couldn’t follow the story, I was too busy placing bets that Sonya Tayeh choreographed it. But I was wrong and I guess the Asian stereotypes in the dance are supposed to be ok because Wade & Amanda Robson did it and she has some sort of Asian background. *GONG!* VIDEO

Cat is having one of those “off” nights cuz her hair is a hot, tangled mess, she looks tired, and someone dressed her in an ill-fitting, deflated discoball. Remember her bob hairstyle last week? That was good. Tonight? Not so much. Anyway, Cat announces that last season of SYTYCD received 4 Emmy nominations for the Choreography category, and one for Make-up. Watching clips from last season served as a reminder that this season’s dancers may be technically skilled, but the personalities on the majority of em? Like watching paint dry. VIDEO

It gets worse! Nigel is gone to receive an honorary doctorate in England, so it’s just Mary and Debbie tonight. Hm. Not the same. It ain’t sh!t without that Brit.

Ok, who’s in the bottom? Tonight the two guys and two gals with the lowest number of votes must DANCE FOR THEIR LIVES. Oh wait a tick. No they don’t because America’s already decided who’s leaving. I must amend the name for these elimination solos…It’s more like they DANCE FOR NO REASON beyond being asked to by the show. *shrug* I miss the DANCING FOR THEIR LIVES. Anyway, we start with the Top 5 ladies and learn that Randi and Melissa are in the girls’ Bottom 2. Actually, come to think of it, America may have gotten this right. I like old-ass Melissa but I wasn’t into her Broadway number last night and thought her solo was too slow-lo. I agree Randi deserves to be there. VIDEO

Then, more plugs for the fall Season 6. Some girl named Mollee from Utah moved her whole family to Cali just so she could have more dance opportunities. Her audition is scrambled and flawed, imo. But she’s bubbly like Kellie Pickler so I assume  they let her through to Vegas. VIDEO

Now it’s the Top 5 dudes on stage. We learn that Kupono is in the bottom (sadly, I agree), but then Evan is SAFE?? Wtf. That puts poor Ade in the Bottom and I’m piiiiiissed. Dear Evan’s fanbase: you’re clearly massive, but you’re wrong! Evan is not interesting and is a far cry from Ade’s skill level, especially in considering who deserves to stay til the end. Lame! VIDEO

SOLO DANCES: Wait, did the dancers always re-do the exact same solo from the previous night in past seasons? That’s stupid! So we have to watch them do the exact same solo! Rerun! We can’t ask them to create one more 1-minute number when they DANCE FOR NO REASON? (Hm, I guess that answers my question - why should they waste energy to come up with dance if it won’t win them votes…).

Randi’s solo - “Dream” by Priscilla Ahn - Like last night, I’m not too wowed by it. I’m also still bothered by the fact that it’s the exact same dance as last night. Where’s the entertainment in it? VIDEO

Kupono’s solo - “Marina Gasolina” by Bonde Do Rola - He was a bit stronger than last night, and his outfit is equally ridiculous. However, his pants are so low, I can see his male mons veneris and it’s very distracting. VIDEO

Melissa’s solo - “Gabriel” by Lamb - Yup, still slow ballet and boring. She needs to be more creative (like last week) to get the fans behind her. There was a flirty moment at the end between Melissa and Cat - what was that about? Get a room, ladies! VIDEO

Ade’s solo - “Unchained Melody” by Righteous Brothers. Mary and Debbie are in love with him (me too!) and the crowd goes wild for his solo. So why is he in the Bottom 2 again?? VIDEO

The Black Eyed Peas perform “I’ve Got a Feeling” and there are enough wacko things going on that I started laughing out loud at my screen: will.i.am’s continual, almost-self-conscious smoothing of his crooked haircut, Fergie’s usual butterface and twirling a feathered baton for no reason, ugs & androgynous background dancers and creepy Taboo wearing a red leather Michael Jackson jacket. Then confetti explodes from the ceiling. Sure, why not. VIDEO

ELIMINATED: Randi Strong-Evans and Kupono Aweau. Randi, I will not miss your stockiness and unitards. But I’m bummed that I *just* realized you sorta look like Jennifer Aniston. Kupono, I will miss you and even your too-frequent *tilt head up* “WOOOO!”s, but I don’t really ever want to see your pubic area again. Pull up yo pants. VIDEO

Next week Mia Michaels will be a guest judge AND so will talk-show host Ellen DeGeneres (WTF?). I’m confused. And then next Thursday is the 100th episode of So You Think You Can Dance, so it’ll be a big deal and Katie Holmes will dance a tribute to Judy Garland. I’m kinda cringing, just in case of suckage.

Hey y’all, check out the videos (from MJ) and brief reviews for last night’s Top 12 performances on So You Think You Can Dance below! No long recap of each couple because I wasn’t able to watch it yet!

Each couple danced TWO numbers (yay!) and the guest judge was Tyce D’Orio (ehhhh…).

RUMORED BOTTOM COUPLES: Phillip & Jeanine, Caitlin & Jason and Randi & Evan

Melissa Sandvig & Ade Obayomi - Disco (Doriana Sanchez) - “Move On Up” by Destination (VIDEO): Melissa slips/falls during the routine, but recovers and judges loved it, especially their crazy, strong lifts.

Melissa & Ade 2nd Dance - Waltz (Ron Montez) - “Natural Woman” by Mary J. Blige (VIDEO): Very pretty, but the judges think the technique and “rise and fall” could definitely be improved upon. Still sounds like Melissa & Ade belong in the top.

Kayla Radomski & Kupono Aweau - Contemporary (Mia Michaels) - “Gravity” by Sarah Bareilles (VIDEO): A powerful dance about addiction that the judges really enjoyed because Kaypono are both very dedicated “actors” as well as dancers. They also still love Kayla something fierce.

Kayla & Kupono 2nd Dance - Broadway (Joey Dowling) - “The Dance at the Gym” from West Side Story The New Broadway Cast (VIDEO): Ok hold that thought about Kaypono being good actors because they didn’t “bring it” for their characters in this number. The judges were lukewarm and said they needed to dig deeper. Uh ohs!

Caitlin Kinney & Jason Glover - Foxtrot (Tony Meredith & Melanie LaPatin) - “Minnie the Moocher” by Big Bad Voodoo Daddy (VIDEO): Judges liked it and thought they were both smooooooth. Will it be enough to save these two from the Bottom 3 though?

Caitlin& Jason 2nd Dance - Jazz (Mandy Moore) - “Show Me Heaven” by Maria McKee (VIDEO): A better performance, but their chemistry is still so-so according to Nigel (I agree!). If either of them survives elimination this week, it could be interesting to see if next week’s partner switch-up helps.

Jeanine Mason & Phillip Chbeeb - Russian Folk Dance (Youri Nelzine & Lilia Babenko) - “Kalinka” by Barynya (VIDEO): Very mixed reviews. It wasn’t an overall success like the Bollywood numbers have been in their efforts to add international dance styles. Nigel said it was “folky”, y’know for a Russian Folk Dance…Jeanine is still the stronger dancer between the two.

Jeanine & Phillip 2nd Dance - Jive (Tony Meredith & Melanie LaPatin) - “Stuff Like That There” by Bette Midler (VIDEO): A really fun number. The judges love Jeanine so she’s finally getting her moment to shine, away from Phillip. They’re not counting him out yet (even though his dance technique continues to be “blah”) - theories are that they’re just trying to keep him on long enough to at least make the SYTYCD Top 10 tour. Shame, shame FOX (but ok, it makes sense).

Randi Strong-Evans & Evan Kasprzak - Hip Hop (Tabitha & Napoleon) - “Halo” by Beyonce (VIDEO): Team Short Stuff managed to do really well for being out of their comfort zone. They are a couple who find out that they’re pregs (”babies havin’ babies”). The judges seem to place these two in the middle of the competition. Definitely not pimping them as much as couples like Janette & Brandon.

Randi & Evan - Samba (Pasha & Anya) - “Ritmo De Bom Bom” by Jubaba (VIDEO): They’re a cute, wee couple, but didn’t bring enough spicy-spice for this Samba. *sad trombone*

Janette Manrara & Brandon Bryant - Argentine Tango (Leonardo Barrionuevo & Miriam Larici) - “Libertango” from Forever Tango original Broadway cast (VIDEO): Wow! A standing ovation from the judges! What can’t this couple do? Their tango wins raves from Nigel. Next week everyone gets a new partner though, so what happens if it’s like, Brandon with a weaker female dancer like Caitlin (if she escapes elimination)? Will his lucky streak continue?

Janette & Brandon 2nd Dance - Pop Jazz (Wade Robson) - “Ruby Blue” by Roisin Murphy (VIDEO): Un yeah, it’s in the bag for these two to make it to the Finals. Another perfectly executed dance number. These two are unstoppable, but I still don’t know if they’re as likeable as like…last season’s Katee & Joshua. Either way, they DO deserve to make it to the end. The bigger question is Who else is close enough in talent to join them?

Tonight’s the Top 12 elimination show and Kelly Rowland and David Guetta will sing “When Love Takes Over.” Things’ll shake up next week when the couples get scrambled!

Who do you think were the bottom couples and who should go home? Watch So You Think You Can Dance tonight to find out if you’re right!

Ooh la la! The pressure was on in tonight’s episode of So You Think You Can Dance: a lot of the dancers got their own styles or genres that weren’t too much of a stretch AND guest-judging was “love you or hate you” Contemporary choreographer, Mia Michaels. Like everyone else, I couldn’t wait to hear if she still couldn’t stand Brandon Bryant for no reason besides his face “annoys the sh!t” out of her…could he win her over? Let’s find out! Thoughts on tonight’s dances and videos (courtesy of MJ) below:

MY BOTTOM 3: Randi & Evan, Caitlin & Jason and Karla & Vitolio

Janette Manrara & Brandon Bryant - Cha-Cha - Jean-Marc and France Genereux - “Hush Hush; Hush Hush” by The Pussycat Dolls (VIDEO): Can these two do any wrong?? Guess that applies to both couples: Brandon & Janette AND the best ballroom choreographers evs, Jean-Marc & France. The dancers nailed this Cha-Cha and, to use Mary Murphy terminology, they were two spicy sexpots waiting to board the first class coach on THE HOT TAMALE TRAIN - YES THEY WERE - WOO WOOO!! Nigel said it was the best Cha-Cha ever on the show and they were so good that Mia did some furious backpedaling and pretended that she was only an outright bitch to Brandon during auditions because she “saw soooo much potential in him.” It was sort of like those made-for-TV movie moments when the drunken husband slurs, “I’m sorry! I only beat ya cuz I loves ya, baby!” Whatevs, I still think she was out of line with her personal attacks during his auditions (not critiquing his dance technique, but his FACE? Come on.). So far, Brandon definitely has what it takes to win this entire show, BUT can he and Janette win enough fans over? Also, will their egos get the best of them?

Kayla Radomski & Kupono Aweau - Jazz - Sonya Tayeh - “Eyes on Fire” by Blue Foundation (VIDEO): This was a perfect number for “Kaypono” - another bizarre, angsty, ragdolly Sonya number. The pair were moody, broody and sexy vampires and it worked. They were totally into their characters and their movements were so together. They looked ever so loverly (y’know, for a dance about death and bloodsucking immortals) and the judges finally gave my boy Kupono some props for his talent! He reminds me more and more of last season’s resident Hawaiian dancer, Mark Kanemura, with his style and embodiment of characters, but he’s sexier to look at. Love ya, Kupono! Hey producers, BTW, can we get some more shots of Kayla’s teddy bear of a grandpa? I miss him.

Randi Strong-Evans & Evan Kasprzak - Broadway - Joey Dowling - “Rich Man’s Frug” from Sweet Charity (VIDEO): This dance was a little too much like last week’s “Butt Dance” (boy-chasing-girl) at first and I thought the music was all wrong and understated for the choreography. I disagree with the judges and blame the choreographer for this underwhelming number. Evan & Randi had some strong moments, but overall I was not really into the number and Evan did come off looking weirdly feminine in some of his movements. It’s getting really hard to pick “Bottom 3″ couples this week because we’ve got some fantastic dancers this season, but Team Short Stuff is on my list for the week.

Caitlin Kinney & Jason Glover - Pop Jazz - Brian Friedman - “Creator” by Santogold (VIDEO): Caitlin played an alien who destroyed mankind and was trying to impregnate Jason, the last human on Earth. Very Xenu. I am still not in love with this couple, but they both did their best to commit to the ridiculous roles given to them, so props for that. Jason even had a few leaps in the dance that were beautiful and impressed me more than he normally does, but overall it was a very strange number and like Mia, I was way distracted by Caitlin’s outfit - something resembling a vacuum-sealed garbage bag coiled with aluminum foil. FASHION POLICE. Poor Caitlin - another pair for the Bottom 3.

Jeanine Mason & Phillip Chbeeb - Hip Hop - Tabitha and Napoleon - “Love Lockdown” by Kanye West (VIDEO): Wow these fools lucked out by getting another Tabitha & Napoleon number!  No Shane Sparks er anything to possibly screw them up. The dance literally chained Jeanine & Phillip at the ankles to represent their partnership on the show — funny how for me the chain came to symbolize how I’ve been stuck with Phillip on my TV, wonking up dance after dance and sending better dancers home. Sorry Chbeeb lovers, I’m sick of his one-note, over-pouty, fish stank face. Yes he’s a talented hip hop dancer, but even in his own genre, his performance (a.k.a. his character) always sucks and he doesn’t emotionally connect. Unfortunately for me, this dance was a success so I guess he’s safe for another week. SIGH.

Melissa Sandvig & Ade Obayomi - Pas de Duex - Thordal Christensen - Romeo & Juliet (VIDEO): I was glad to see Melissa, our sole ballerina, get to do this dance. I still really root for this couple! Definitely not Ade’s strongest dance, but it was far from a disaster and what these two lack in technique they made up for in emotional connection and chemistry. But I wonder if audiences will vote for a classical ballet number…? I hope they stay safe!

Karla Garcia & Vitolio Jeune - Quickstep - Jean-Marc and France Genereux - “Puttin’ on the Ritz” by Rufus Wainwright (VIDEO): I put these two in my Bottom 3, but honestly thought they did a really excellent job and enjoyed their spunky Quickstep moreso than Melissa & Ade’s Pas de Deux. But Mia was right that sometimes Karla wasn’t fully in her character and had a stunned facial expression that took a little away from their dance and lost some points from me. HOWEVER, I am also really rooting for this couple because Karla & Vitolio were, IMHO, anchored down by weaker partners in the past weeks and this dance alone showed that they have a lot more to offer. Overall it was a fun, quick-changing Quickstep! I mean, Karla’s dress totally transformed in the middle of the number, and that’s gotta be a crowd-pleaser. Will it be enough though?

Tomorrow night we get a performance by “AUUGH KELLY CLARKSON!” and find out which gal and guy are leaving us. Who will they be? Tune in to So You Think You Can Dance at 9pm on FOX!

You can’t ask for better summer entertainment than So You Think You Can Dance. These choreographers and dancers are so talented, the judges are playful but genuinely supportive (are we taking notes, American Idol?). It’s a good time had by all, so pull up a chair. Videos (by MJ’s Big Blog) and thoughts comin’ atcha.

Joining judges Nigel Lythgoe and Mary Murphy tonight was Hip Hop/Krumpmaster Lil C, who is always an odd judge. His long-winded, flowery comments always start out a little Paula Abdul - like I brace myself with,”Oh man, this is gonna get all kinds of crazy,” but once he makes his point, I totally get what he meant with all those metaphors and similes. But then he goes and spits some wonky grammar like, “You did good” and I wonder where my Lil C-hakespeare went.

My BOTTOM 3 couples: Caitlin & Jason, Phillip & Jeanine, and *knife to my heart* Kupono & Ashley.

Randi Strong-Evans & Evan Kasprzak - Jive - Louis Van Amstel - “Shake a Tail Feather” by Ray Charles (VIDEO): Who else snorted or cheered when Randi came out in one of her infamous unitards during her solo? *raise hand* Being an occasional Dancing With the Stars watcher, I know I’ve seen sharper, harder-hitting Jive numbers than what Team Short Stuff did. It wasn’t that bad, but there was a clunkiness to their dance, even though they had the right energy and “dance faces” on. Judges agree.

Melissa Sandvig & Ade Obayomi - Jazz - Sonya Tayeh - “24 Hours (the Ashton Shuffle A-Bomb Remix)” by Terry Poison (VIDEO): Wow, I am totally LOVING Ade more and more. He is so gorgeous, I can’t get over it - could he bump front-runner Brandon Bryant from the spotlight? Hmmm. I always look forward to Sonya’s nasty-weird-sinister Jazz numbers, but I found it was missing some cohesion (maybe that’s what Sonya was going for). Also, I really like Melissa & Ade as a couple, although I thought Melissa could’ve attacked the moves harder, but hey, she’s the old ballerina, so it’s cool. Keep ‘em around!

Caitlin Kinney & Jason Glover - Hip Hop - Shane Sparks - “Missin’ You” by Trey Songs (VIDEO): Caitlin looks more like LeAnn Rimes every time I see her. Those blond curls and squinty eyes - straight Rimes, I tell ya. Anyway, this number didn’t do it for me. It’s not like the dancing was really poor, but their performance was laughable - super corny, effeminate grins throughout…gross! Where the stank faces at?!  Mary pointed out that they weren’t in sync either. She was totally confused about why Caitlin & Jason didn’t click, but hello? I remember that last week their Bollywood dance was NOT as hot as the judges said. The two of them were struggling with that also. Yeah, this was my least favorite to watch - just too “cute and fluffy” for a hip hop dance.

Janette Manrara & Brandon Bryant - Disco - Doriana Sanchez - “Loving You is Really My Game” by Brainstorn (VIDEO): Speaking of look-a-likes, anyone else see that Brandon = Carlton Banks from The Fresh Prince of Bel Air (PIC)? I think it’s his cheesy grin. I still love him though! Ok, so believe it or not…I actually liked watching this disco number! Guess it just takes the right dancers, but they really killed this wild, fast disco number without being too cornball. Janette had trouble with the steps in rehearsal, but her pep really fit with this number. Lots of lifts and splits, too. Not bad for disco, which usually suck hard. Even Lil C, one of Brandon’s critics, had to give him props tonight! Still a power couple, these two.

Asuka Kondoh & Vitolio Jeune - Waltz - Louis Van Amstel - “Dreams Are More Precious” by Enya (VIDEO): Ok, so I’m still not really an Asuka fan because (espesh after last week’s “dance for your life” solo) I feel like she tries too hard to “act”. Like “act sexy,” “act sad,” “act supportive of partner”. On the other hand, I really like Vitolio and think he’s cute when he’s not drowning in his sweat (suck it, Asuka! Who the hell tells a partner, “I don’t find you attractive” after just meeting them? How rude!). With all that said, I thought this Waltz was lovely. The music, the elegant movements, the emotion behind it and Vitolio’s orphan upbringing…what a combo *wipe tear*. I admit that Asuka was graceful and made the right “tragic, distressed” faces, but I still feel that she wasn’t as genuine as Vitolio’s performance. But very strong overall, the judges loved it and Mary started crying.

Kayla Radomski & Max Kapitanniko - Pop Jazz - Brian Friedman - “Hot Like Wow” by Nadia Oh (VIDEO): Oh my, I really liked this weird shiz! Totally entertaining number where Kayla played a princess being entertained by Max, who seduces her in a plot to steal the throne - Mwahahaha! *twirl mustachio menacingly* Like Mary, I was distracted by Max’s baggy-crotched MC Hammer pants, but it was a really compelling storyline! Kayla really is fun to watch, and the judges were drooling all over her, but HELLO Grandpa Radomski was in the audience! Just seeing him tearing up with pride made me want to cry all over again. I. Love. Him.

Karla Garcia & Jonathan Platero - Contemporary - Stacey Tookey - “Falling Slowly” by The Frames (VIDEO): Is there an unspoken rule that every Contemporary dance number requires that one or more of the dancers must wear silk? Like say, a silk slip, a silk dress shirt, or silk pajamas? Let’s get more creative, people! But no matter, s’all good cuz I like Jonathan & Karla (although Karla is stronger) and they were one of the better couples of the night. I wasn’t as into it as the judges were - Season 4 had better Contemporary numbers IMO (Katee & Joshua, Kherington & Twitch) and the emotions felt a little forced. But overall, solid, so please keep them around, America! Jonathan is soo pretty and I wanna see Karla bust out her Hip Hop skillz in the future!

Jeanine Mason & Phillip Chbeeb - Tango - Tony Meredith - “Violento (Up Mix)” by Bailango (VIDEO): Eh, that was pretty weaksauce, especially Phillip. I get that he’s a fun pop-locker to watch, but I’m never convinced that he’s strong enough outside of his genre. Jeanine actually redeemed this for me with her sultry Tango-lady role, but as a whole, it was like watching two kids do a “tango” for a high school talent show. Will they end up in the Bottom 3 where they belong, or will Chbeeb’s fangirls save him?

Ashley Valerio & Kupono Aweau - Hip Hop - Shane Sparks - “Imma Be” by Black Eyed Peas (VIDEO): The concept had sooo much potential: Ashley lays on the ground as Kupono’s shadow and mimics his movements… but execution-wise, they didn’t pull it off. I couldn’t tell who to watch because they were both doing their own thing: Ashley was getting the moves and ‘tude right, but Kupono has his own style and I love watching him move. Unfortunately, based on this dance, they may end up in the Bottom 3 tomorrow. Save Kupono!

Catch So You Think You Can Dance at 9pm to see which guy and gal get cut. Also, Mia Michaels is choreographing a group number for the Top 18. Will she tone down her crabby attitude? Will Brandon prove himself to her? Guess we’ll have to watch and see!