I’m not sure how eager folks will be to see The Next Great American Band, brought to you from the good folks of American Idol, but something tells me the buzz will start growing soon. You may or may not recall (depending on if you watch Idol), that one of Ryan Seacrest’s big announcements this season was the launch of a contest for a talented band. I think it got sort of a ho-hum response, but I can just envision the promos for it now—showing the highlights and lowlights of auditions and roping people in much the same way that Idol got its start. Since the competition can be any kind of band, expect to see some interesting entries—a little different than a search for a pure rock or country band, there are bound to be quirky folks entering as well. The show begins with a two hour episode on October 19th (Friday)—thereafter, episodes will be just one hour. 10 semifinalists will be chosen and then America will place their votes a la Idol. Three bands will compete in the finale for the chance at a recording contract. My money’s on the jug band—if there is one. How funny would that be?