X Factor Review week 2

After the brilliant new series opener last week, the second episode of the X Factor had a lot to live up to…

After a brief montage of last week's blockbusting opener, along comes 45 year old Johnny Robinson.

Image the scene, Steptoe and Son meets X factor. Onto the stage he walked, to be met by lots of muffled sniggers and side glances. Perfect X Factor cannon fodder. But Jolly Johnny gave us a true 'Susan Boyle' moment.

The guy was likeable, polite, and yes he could sing. Maybe not a winner but a decent candidate and I hope he goes far, the competition needs more people like him around.

After the break, we had a, 'love in the air' montage, which even featured the first ever X Factor proposal. (I'm off to buy my hat after writing this.)

Then we met Derry, Kelly Rowland's number one fan.

He was a great singer, and could hold a good tune, the kind of guy you could see in a boy band. I just wish they hadn't gone on and on about his love for Kelly, it overshadowed his brilliant voice.

Of the singers that followed, Joseph Castle stood out for me and I hope we see more of him at bootcamp. Great vocal.

Then for the first ever time, the X Factor auditions went to Liverpool, the home of the Beatles, don't you know?

After the big build about Liverpool producing outstanding musicians, you just knew the first act would be bad…and they were. Sorry Mark, but thanks for coming.

So after the false start, Liverpool needed a top singer. They got one in the shape baseball shoe wearing, Craig Colton.

Craig's mum and dad, (Peter Kaye??) were in the audience, but were surprised when Craig walked out onto the stage for his audition, as he had kept it quiet from them. They were so proud and Mrs Midas even shed a little tear!!

Biscuit worker Craig, gave a great vocal. Even "Mrs M" said 'crumbs he is good' (sorry everyone).

Craig was good, but he never 'wowed' me in a 'he could be a Midas act' way. Saying that though, let's hope we still see him at judges' houses.

Now on to the groups. They were given their first montage of the new series. Standing out for all the wrong reasons were Beyonce and her husband!
The Duos were so bad Gary had to ask, "Did you rehearse that or was that the rehearsal?" My favourite Gary Barlow quote of the week.

Next up was the band The Keys. A brilliant harmony group who stood out a country mile and should be at the live shows. Something for the ladies?! These lads are definitely ones to watch.

The final audition of the night was Misha Bryan from Manchester.

I had the opportunity of seeing Misha's live audition. She rocked the crowd then and you could see it all happening again on the TV. This confirmed something to me…This girl is a star and I love her. One of the best auditions I have ever seen on the X Factor; it is up there with when I first saw 'Midas' act, Leona Lewis.

Mishas' vocal was note perfect and her confidence oozed from the stage in to the crowd.

Kelly Rowland spent most of Misha's audition on her feet and if Kelly likes you, you have a chance.

I will lay my cards on the table and say that even after just two shows Misha is a potential Midas act. If she does not at least get to the final 3, I will be shocked.

Before I go, a quick mention for ITV2's the Xtra Factor, which is being superbly presented by Olly Murs and Caroline Flack.

On this show we met Roger Boyd, a likeable guy who gave us a great Meatloaf moment. The crowd loved it and Roger marched on to boot camp. Good Luck mate.

Every week I will end with a few messages I have received from people regarding the show;

Sabah Slimani (Who is X Factor Legend Chico's sister) said of Misha, "She was the act of the night and had instant star quality"

Mal Ross said, "The Keys and Misha Bryan were the stand out's from week 2"