May 112011
 

Every Wednesday, our resident Gleek Eric Garneau gives his take on last night’s Glee covers.


In “Prom Queen,” McKinley High throws its annual gala dance, and many of our favorite characters vie for coronation. Meanwhile, a last-minute cancellation by Air Supply leaves the dance bandless until New Directions steps in to provide an enchanted evening of vocal bliss.

Well, guys, the second season of Glee is coming to an end. After this week’s episode we only have two left to go, and if the early reports regarding the season finale are true, there’s no need for me to write up that one. I’m happy to say that, as a television show, I’ve thought the last few episodes of Glee have really begun to coalesce into a satisfying conclusion for its many season-long arcs. I think lots of fans would agree that the second season has for the most part been much less compelling than the first, though it seems Glee’s found its footing again when it comes to plot progression and character development. Continue reading »

Mar 092011
 

In Defense takes a second look at a much maligned cover artist, album, or trend and asks, “Is it really as bad as all that?”

Disclaimer: This won’t be a strong defense of any particular American Idol artist. Let’s face it, the show has produced some music that’s utterly indefensible. You won’t catch me rocking out to Clay Aiken in the car anytime soon, mostly because “Invisible” is the creepiest song ever written. But a lot of music fans are quick to dismiss Idol as the lower common denominator of pop culture (an award properly given to the truly meritless Bridalplasty), when the series possesses several redeeming qualities. Chief among them: the ability to surprise audiences with the appearance of a knockout cover bobbing in a sea of dreary copycat performances. Continue reading »