'American Idol' photos

Images from the new season of our favorite tone-deaf reality show

The Emmy Award-winning reality show that skyrocketed the careers of Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood, Jordin Sparks and a couple of other, less memorable crooners is back for its eighth season. This time, songwriter/producer/singer Kara DioGuardi joins Randy, Simon and the always peppy Paula at the judges' table. Check out our pics from this week's first round of "Idol" hopefuls, minus the ear-shattering vocals (you're welcome!). —Rebecca Ford, Metromix