By Karen Moul
The Voice battle rounds continued this week with twelve more contestants on the chopping block. Overall the performances were better than last week, although the coaches continued to pit similar singers against each other. This didn’t always result in a memorable duet. It does, however, set us up for some difficult decisions down the road.
In addition, some of the song choices seemed designed to favor certain artists, but this stage of the competition is no longer simply about vocal talent. Style and stage presence are becoming more important and to win this thing you’ve got to step out of your comfort zone and make a song your own.
Highlights of the episode included a fascinating performance by Lindsey and Lee singing Nirvana’s “Heart-Shaped Box.” Each struggled in rehearsal, but they both have such unusual voices that you either loved this matchup or hated it. Kim and Whitney were portrayed as the battle of the divas, but there was never much doubt that Kim’s age and experience would give her the edge.
Jamar and Jamie brought the episode to a climax with and an emotional segment that had both artists sobbing. Jamar is a strong competitor, both in terms of vocal talent and his inspiring personal story, and he has a real shoot at winning the recording contract.
After the episode, the six advancing artists spoke with us about their experiences in the battle round.
The Voice airs Mondays at 8 pm on NBC.