Liezel maintained Star Scholar regime with an 8.70 score as she performed “So Much In Love” during the 3rd Gala Performance Night of Pinoy Dream Academy, July 5. Originally done by Sheena Easton, this was actually the first time we’ve seen Zhel smokin’ an upbeat song. I thought it was okay, though I much prefer seeing her perform a slow poppin’ R&B hit. But what the heck. At least she isn’t boring, and we are now aware she could pull of a Rihanna. Change is good.

Judges were presented. First was musical director Gerard Salonga, who have been pretty much the Simon Cowell of PDA. I really like him – he knows musicality and does not compromise with the cheering audience. Check out his insightful feedback on Christian Alvear’s. Anway, singer Rachelle Ann Go was this week’s guest judge and sitting beside her was resident judge Louie Ocampo.

Host Billie was with Zhel and the 2 probies, Jet and Sheng, as we saw the footage of Liezel’s mom receiving the “Star Scholar” gift – a necklace. Mommy is evidently happy and proud of her daughter’s achievements, reminding Zhel to stay grounded.

“I love you, yun lang talaga. Na-mimiss ko na siya.” says teary-eyed Liezel to her mom.

As last week’s Star Scholar, she was up first. I thought (and was hoping) Mr. Salonga would take on Zhel since he was the first one introduced among the jury.

Listen to Liezel Garcia – So Much In Love

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Rachel: “Sobrang ganda ng boses mo, super. Nakikinig ako kanina, sobrang linis. Yun nga lang, medyo, sa stage, medyo stiff lang ng konti. Okay naman yung song mo kaso mas gusto ko yung nanggagaling sa mata sana yung nararamdaman galing sa puso. Pero overall naman okay naman yung performance. Sobrang ganda ng boses mo.”

I second to that. A little movement on stage won’t hurt, Liezel. It’s an uptempo song and we need to do that thang, y’know! Haha. Nevertheless, that mesmerizing voice that we love was stirring, flawless than ever. Oh, and no noticeable diction problems, yay! Congrats!

WATCH THE PERFORMANCE AND COMMENT AFTER THE JUMP!

Video coming soon.

I’d appreciate any comments. Strictly no profanity. Please respect each other’s opinion.