Close up 1: Group C shines

After the results of group B were out last Sunday, many viewers were surprised to find out that Piya Baisya who received the highest number of votes from the audience (48 out of 50 points) was not even among the first three preferred by the judges. Thanks to the audience Piya made it to the next round but it became apparent that the judges and the public are not on the same wavelength.

Some viewers are curious why SMS is the only option for local viewers. Calling from LAN phones to vote, sounds convenient but is not possible. Viewers residing in the country cannot cast their votes online either, that option is only available for non-resident viewers. Hopefully these issues will be resolved.

The first performance of last Friday's episode was by Sharmin Akhter Lisa. Her choice was Bimoorto ei raatri amar, a classic composed by Bhupen Hazarika and perhaps one of Abida Sultana's best works. Although at some points the aspiring singer sounded quite amateurish and nervous, it was not a bad start. The judges seemed content with her effort. Next on stage was Debashish Basu Nabin who sang a widely popular Shubir Nandi number, Prithibitey prem boley kichhu nei. Nabin's voice was a bit shaky but conveyed emotion.

The third contestant on the mike, Rabeya Khanum Khushbu delivered the first ace performance of the night. Her rendition of a patriotic song O amar Bangla ma tor sounded as if she had years of experience in singing on track. Her control over her voice was impeccable. Trisita Shaha, the next contestant could be another hopeful for the next round. She tried her hand at a complex composition, Roktoranga shondha robi. Her voice has the stereotypical melodious charm that's always easy on the ear, as one of the judges, Shakila Zafar put it, "Your voice has all the qualities required to be a good singer."

Champa Banik performed Amar apnar cheye apon jey jon. The performance seemed to strike a chord with the judges. Mashiur Rahman Rinku followed with a folk number Amar ghoreo jwala baireo jwala, another top-notch performance that might be Rinku's ticket to the next round. His singing techniques and the folk song sounded like a match made in heaven. Ahmed Imtiaz Bulbul's remark resonated that impression: "If folk songs ever need a herald, you should be the chosen one."

Md Rashed Uddin performed O amar udal ponkhirey. It was a mediocre performance at best, but in his excuse Rashed was unwell. The last performance was by Khadija Hussein Lopa. She rendered Bhulitey parina tarey bhola jaina. Lopa's presentation was well-rounded, despite some minor flaws.

Who goes out of the competition and who moves to the next round? Watch tonight's episode to find out. More importantly, did you vote?