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The 2008 American Idol season premiere is slated for January but behind the scenes things are already heating up. An army of 160 first round audition picks will convene in Hollywood within the next few weeks. The judges will begin the process of whittling down the field to the final 24.

Word has it that the seven city audition tour produced several standouts so we are likely in for another talent rich season.

Randy Jackson provided a sneak peek at some changes that will be instituted when the show goes live on the Fox network. Expect to see some musical instruments this time around. That should add an interesting twist.

Jackson also reports that there will be less guest appearances and more focus on the contestants. You may recall that it was a revolving door of guest mentors last season. Some were effective – others not so much.

Expect to see a different format for next summer’s Idol Tour. Turns out the revenues fell way off this year so American Idol will team up with the TV contestants from “So You Think You Can Dance” when they hit the road next July.

We’ve include some pictures from past seasons. Click on the thumbnails for a better look.

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