American Idol is Back for Season 7

The new season of American Idol has kicked off with auditions in Philadelphia, PA. The judges have stated to the press that this is going to be an amazing season. So far, I have yet to see the amazing talent the judges are talking about.

This year is going to be a little different. The producers are going to allow contestants to use instruments in the earlier rounds. They have also said that we are going to see less celebrity mentors so that we can learn more about the contestant's background. This can either be really good or really bad. Two words. Sympathy votes.

Here's a recap of the Philly auditions.

The Good

Joey Catalano lost over 200 pounds and his confidence showed when he took on the maroon 5 classic "Sunday Morning." His audition was very amateur and he could get the sympathy votes if he makes it into the top 24. We all know how much the "powers that be" like the sympathy votes.

Former Taylor Hicks backup singer Melanie Nyena doesn't want to be in the background and is giving "American Idol" a shot. Last season Melinda Doolittle was a former backup singer and she made it into the top 3. Things could turn out for the better for Nyena.

Junot Joyner gave a pretty forgettable performance of Elton John's hit "That's Why They Call it The Blues." Unfortunately, I just don't see him making it into the top 24. Then again I was shocked when Sanjaya made it as far as he did. "Idol" is known for their shocker moments.

Jose Candaloya was only shown briefly but it was a great audition from what they showed. He nailed his audition where he sang, in Spanish, Toni Braxton's power ballad "Unbreak My Heart." Hopefully he doesn't choke in Hollywood and makes it into the top 24.

Chicago native Angela Martin shared her sad back-story. Her young daughter has a rare disorder. If this doesn't bring in the sympathy votes than I don't know what will. She had a good audition with one of the most overused songs on "Idol," Stevie Wonder's hit "Signed, Sealed, Delivered."