Natalie vs. Matt: Australian Idol Showdown

by lkatulka on November 19th, 2007

Last night our Australian Idol hopefuls Natalie Gauci and Matt Corby had one last chance to impress the public. But did they pull it off? Who deserves the winner’s crown? Here’s my verdict on the final showdown.

Matt Corby kicked off the night with his rendition of the winner’s single, “Here I Am.” Newspaper reports earlier in the week suggested Matt hated the song, and while he denied these claims his performance told a different story. I thought he looked really uncomfortable, particularly during the verses.

He looked a lot more at home performing Radiohead’s “High and Dry.” I’m sure Radiohead fans probably hated his loungy treatment of the song, but I’m not a Radiohead fan. I really liked it, but I think his falsetto needs some work.

I was less enthusiastic about his closing song, “Mind’s Eye” by Wolfmother. This should have rocked. The band did, but Matt’s performance felt laboured and tired.

Natalie Gauci seems to be the master of turning hideous pop songs into gold. Just as she did weeks ago with “Umbrella,” Nat did a great version of Timbaland’s “Apologise.”

She followed it up with a breathtaking version of Kate Bush’s “Running Up That Hill.” Considering how she struggled with the high notes in “Ray of Light,” I was a little nervous about this, but she pulled it off for a commanding performance. For me, this was the performance of the night.

She closed the show with the winner’s single “Here I Am.” This is the way this song needs to be sung, no question. Her performance had vulnerability and strength all at the same time. Wow.

Reading my comments, I guess you know which way I’m hoping the verdict goes. I’m backing Natalie for the exciting performances she’s delivered in recent weeks. Matt started the competition really strong, but lately he’s been a bit lacklustre. Natalie, on the other hand, has gone from strength to strength. I also really don’t want to hear Matt’s version of “Here I Am” saturating radio waves. It’s going to be a really close call, but Natalie has my vote.