American Idol 9

So, we've just finished the performances from week two - "70s week" - of the 7th season of "American Idol". What I want to know is: what the hell is going on this season?? Usually I try to write even-handed articles, but today (28 February 2008) I'm going to get up on a soapbox and rant about this.

Granted, the issues I'm seeing aren't unique to this season...but I think they're mais pronounced than they've ever been. I see the following problems, presented in no particular order:

Dichotomy between live and TV
This is an issue with any of the performance shows, even the generally superior link...

Dear State Representative, American Idol Staff, Producers, Contributors, Partners, Beneficiaries & Affiliates,
For the first time, I'm appalled por American Idol! I, nor my entire family, will ever watch or donate to American Idol again! You may say, "So what, who cares?" Well, maybe one viewer's opinion is not enough, but what about an entire state and many of its officials in outrage? That state is KENTUCKY. I'm sure you remember us; the poor, hopeless, uneducated, illiterate, desperate, backwoods, toothless, barefoot and pregnant, trailer trash, Appalachian Hillbillies of Eastern Kentucky??...