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American Idol is back in swing and will, apparently, spend more time on quality and performances - which means a lot less time on tedious and embarrassing cringe moments - for which we're glad.

Another major change to the format of the show is the addition of a fourth judge. Simon Cowell, Randy Jackson and Paula Abdul will be joined by Kara DioGuardi for Season 8.

DioGuardi is a singer and songwriter plus producer who's worked with past Idol champs Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood, Taylor Hicks and the two Davids. Also notable on Kara's CV are Avril Lavigne, Pink, Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera, Miley Cyrus, the Jonas Brothers, Natasha Bedingfield and Jewel. That's impressive.

So with the additional time spent on performance and quality, perhaps Kara DioGuardi will also provide creative and positive guidance to the contestants - moving American Idol to an even better professional level.

The 2 hour final was an interesting mix of music and American tv gloss. There was plenty of sparkle and passion, albeit not so much from the contestants.

Syesha singing with Seal was one highlight, which suggested a few things about music in the 21st Century. First, Syesha lost out because she was a less safe choice than the two Davids. Second, the huge number of votes (almost 100 million) was surely going to favour middle of the road rather than exotic. But third, talent quests are the new powerbrokers in entertainment.

The six girls of the top 12 performed a medley. and their strengths and weaknesses shone through. Amanda still impressed the most, with Carly a close second. Well, that was until Donna Summer joined them on stage. Controlled power, emotional growls and crisp diction shone through, a wonderful example for any contestant to try to emulate. Which Syesha did in her brief duet with Donna.

The Carly Smithson and Micahel Johns duet revealed their considerable powers.  Both could be great solo successes, especially with the right songs. Both have got more genuine personality than the other ten put together, and  more importantly they can put that personality into their singing.