Is it that time again?

January 18th, the start of season 11 of American Idol. The show begins with a montage showing how current contestants grew up watching Idol, exactly what I needed to start my year, a reinforcement of how old I am. It was nice seeing last season's judges back -- I got my fill of Simon and Paula on X Factor, so seeing JLo and Steven Tyler and even Randy felt refreshing.

What was my take on X Factor? It was fun to watch. Hated the host, loved LA Reid, thought there was some fantastic talent, didn't need the back-up dancers, thought Paula got screwed with terrible groups, felt bad that Nicole Scherzinger ruined her career and was not surprised that one of Simon's picks won.

The auditions are usually not a highlight for me, so many sad stories, too many bad auditions but when the occasional star shines, I get excited for what is to come.

Some highlights from Savannah:

Shaun Kriseman, Ryan Seacrest look a like. He couldn't sing well enough, but the bit with Ryan was fun.

Shannon Magrane, daughter of the pitcher. Can we discuss that Steven hit on her in front of her father? Awkward.

Amy Brumfield, who lives in a tent. I was sure this was going to be a joke one and was about to fast forward, but wow, what a nice voice. She can't win, but nice for her to get a shot.

Schyler Dixon, who was a repeat auditioner with her brother Colton. Both were amazing. I liked her a little better, but I love when we do see people come back -- they always tell them to come back, but nice to see it work.

Lauren Mink, teacher singing Country Strong. They loved it. I thought it was okay, of course loved Randy's shout out to my gal Jennifer Nettles of Sugarland, but after the Scotty / Lauren finale of last season, I think the show needs a non-country winner to make sure it doesn't get stale. Especially since Scotty was so cheesy.

WT Thompson whose wife was about to have a baby sang Little Big Town's Boondocks and I agreed with Steven that he does not have what it takes. Nice song choice, but I don't think he'll be getting out of the boondocks soon.

Brittany Kerr super hot girl in the white jeans. Always fun to see if the really beautiful girl can last.

Phillip Phillips, a very handsome, talented guy with stupid parents who gave him the same first and last name. And then he started playing Thriller on the guitar. This guy just gave me "goosies" as Jennifer would say. WOW.

Alright, Game on...