American I Don't Know Why I'm Still Watching

So, is it just me or can we all agree that the competition is WEAK this year on American Idol? I cannot see any clear stand outs among this crop of contestants at all. Ok, that's not true, there are a few who are clearly better than the rest (Crystal Bowersox), but I don't feel like that is really saying much this season. Saying you are a stand out this year is kind of like saying you got the highest failing grade - whoop de doo. No one's really bringing all that much to the table, so being the best isn't the same as it might have been in past seasons.

It is kind of interesting that no one is quite as polished or professional as they have been recently. The contestants have been getting more and more polished every year - people who have worked as professional singers just don't bring the same sense of discovery and "chance of a lifetime" to the show as true amateurs. So it is kind of fun watching these contestants because they really have ALOT of room to grow - seeing the transformations and who can really build a persona and find their style and rhythm is part of the fun of the show. When everyone starts out super great, there is less room for improvement and the competition factor just turns into a popularity contest. Now there is actual risk involved because they need to improve and develop and learn how to choose the right song and sing it stronger, as well as be charming and popular.

That being said, I really hope they do it quickly - this endless bad karaoke feel is getting a little hard to listen to each week.