The Tribune

By Alesha Cadet

Tribune Features Reporter

alesha.c@hotmail.com

THE THREE week wait came to an end with X Factor USA returning last Tuesday for the top sixteen live performances.

This came after the show’s new Four Chair Challenge auditions, a first for the X Factor USA.

When the X Factor USA introduced the Four Chair Challenge early on in the show, the top 40 were separated into four groups made up of 10 contestants. During the audition each contestant in each category individually sang to the judges in hopes of securing a spot in one of the top four seats.

The Four Chair Challenge replaced last season’s boot camp and home auditions. The final four, forming the Top 16, advanced to the live shows: Girls Ellona Santiago, Rion Paige,Khaya Cohen and Danielle Geimer were led by judge Demi Lovato; Boys Josh Levi, Carlos Guevara, Tim Olstad and Carlito Olivero were led by judge Paulina Rubio; Over 25s Jeff Gutt, James Kenney, Lillie McCloud and Rachel Potter were led by judge Kelly Rowland; and Groups Alex and Sierra, Sweet Suspense, Restless Road and Roxxy Montana were led by judge Simon Cowell.

Demi’s girls were first up to perform. Ellona Santiago took to the stage to sing Britney Spears’ “Til The World Ends.” It was very entertaining to watch, as she had an energetic vibe going on with her background dancers and flashy lights.

After performing, Kelly told her: “I am so happy that you opened up this show, that was so magical and you were so on fire. The fact that you were moving and singing at the same time is so impressive. You are going to be one to watch in this competition, Demi you cannot let her go.”

Her mentor, Demi expressed her excitement on how pleased she was with Ellona’s performance.

Danie Geimer took on Miley Cyrus’ “Wrecking Ball.” She gave a more peaceful and somewhat soothing performance.

Simon told her: “You had real moments there, but the problem is Dani, how do we make you not boring. I think it is just more than just a voice, and I am not sure that you have the X Factor.” Dani was the first out of four to be eliminated from the show.

Josh Levi’s elimination was the most shocking, as he was a judge and fan favourite throughout the competition.

“Out of all the boys, Paulina sends Josh home, go figure. Every season they do something to disappoint, and this adds to that list of disappointments,” said one local viewer on Twitter.

Another viewer said: “This may sound cliche but I don’t care, I am not watching this show anymore for the season, what is the point. Some of these singing competition shows would not know talent if it slaps them in the face 100 times. I wish Josh all the best in his future plans.”

Sharing the same shoe as Josh was contestant James Kenny of the over 25s. Kelly decided to X him out of the competition. Simon’s group choice was to send home Roxxy Montana.

The X Factor USA returns next Tuesday at 8 pm for more live show action and voting.