Idol is back and better than ever. They’ve gone back to the basics and totally won our hearts again. We hate to admit it but we stopped watching for a bit there. Especially last season when producers paired a crazy crew of talent judges in hopes of spiking ratings. Nikki Minaj and Mariah Carey went at it with words although it was obvious if cameras weren’t around, fists would have been flying.

The producers were wrong…it wasn’t what viewers wanted to see. But now they have tidied up shop and the judges’ table is looking stronger than ever. With a mix of old and new judges, Keith Urban, Jennifer Lopez and Harry Connick Jr. will weigh in on contestants as hopefuls fight for the title. The trio actually gets along, laughing and talking through decisions, making for a very captivating panel. The show has added “The Chamber,” a waiting area for contestants to shake off their nerves before they step under the lights. It’s a genuine moment and we love the addition to the show. Not to mention, some of the talent is totally amazing. We can’t wait to see who makes the cut and how the judges get along this season.