Round 2 of Naga Idol,  a viewer’s perspective

The ‘select’ eighteen contestants had the opportunity to showcase their singing prowess once again – and what a show it was. But, first things first. The stage was strikingly different, being tastefully done up with a prominent, but not intrusive, Naga Idol logo forming the backdrop. Traditional Naga motifs were also an added attraction – more of these would be nice. The judges were their usual incisive yet encouraging selves.
Coming back to track, the participants keep getting better and better. Different genres of songs were handled with aplomb, and here, some memorable performances that stand out are those of the two little dynamos i.e., Samuel Konyak and Imtiba Pongen. They displayed considerable chutzpah and the so-called ‘X factor’. Others that merit a mention are those by Namnahei Nza (who interestingly chose a Bette Midler song and polished it off beautifully), Imtiwapang Imsong (a good controlled rendition of Tracy Chapman), Imli Walling, Ruokuovotuo, Kikumsungba. The lone female contestant Limatula Nungshi gave a fairly good performance – she can do better and she certainly has what it takes and can deliver the goods – if the voters do not decide otherwise (I hope she stays around anyway). Constraints of space do not permit the listing of more names but, suffice it to say that I had a jolly good time watching all of them perform.

The inborn critic/perfectionist/do-gooder in all humans need to be given expression (whether solicited or not) and so the concluding part takes care of precisely that aspect with some suggestions.

1. Performers should arrange the music in such a manner where the long guitar solo riffs/ instrumental solos are edited so that they are not left twiddling their collective thumbs, or they could make use of these ‘breaks’ to express their feelings for the song by graceful dance movements, connecting with the audience  etc.
2. Backup/background/supporting singers may be included in the performances. This will enhance the creativity side of things.

Finally, congratulations are in order for the organizers for their constant endeavour to excel, and producing tangible results with every show.

An interested observer

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