NBC’s ‘The Voice’ review: Katie Basden, Ryan Quinn, Malik heard, and the Battle Rounds

Tonight, “The Voice” did more than just kick off the Blind Auditions. It also kicked off the Battle Rounds, which of course is probably our least-favorite part of the competition. That’s no slight against any of the other singers, but it’s a format that just is not amazing.

Ryan Quinn defeats Katie Basden, “Maybe I’m Amazed” (Team Adam) – Typically, the Battles do start off with a great performance or two, and after watching this we’re pretty sure that this was no exception. From start to finish, this was pretty darn excellent! Great vocals, great style, and Ryan did just enough to rise to the top. However, there were two steals! Adam also fought for her to pick Christina, but she went with Blake instead.

Paxton Ingram defeats Brittney Lawrence, “I Know What You Did Last Summer” (Team Blake) – Hey, look! It’s an actual duet for two people in the Battles! That’s always better. It’s also nice that Blake had someone who knew pop in Gwen Stefani here to help him … though he was probably just happy to spend time with her, as well. Ultimately, Paxton did surpass Brittney here, and has some potential moving forward.

Bryan Bautista defeats Malik Heard, “It’s a Man’s Man’s Man’s World” (Team Christina) – This song is ridiculously overdone, but after hearing both of these guys completely nail it, we understand why Christina chose it … and why some of the other coaches went for a steal. Malik was almost as soulful and smooth as Bryan, so we think that he and Pharrell now could be a dangerous combination.

Interested in getting some other news right now when it comes to “The Voice”? If you head over here right now, you can get our take on the final Blind Auditions of the season right now! Also, sign up over here to get some more TV news on everything we cover, sent right over to you via our CarterMatt newsletter. (Photo: NBC.)