If you're an American Idol fan, you're watching how things are meshing with the new change in format: Kara DioGuardi has joined Simon Cowell, Randy Jackson and Paula Abdul on the auditions trail for Season 8.

They put forth a united front Tuesday in New York, smiling for the cameras and ribbing each other. Since Monday's surprise announcement about songwriter Kara, I've learned more about her in stories like this one. She's definitely tuned into what the younger demographic is listening to these days.

I've also learned that Kara and Paula are friends. But I think Paula needs to be on guard. AI officials insist a fourth judge will bring new energy to the show, and that a second female (who happens to be younger) gives Paula some backup with the addition of more "girl power."

I still say that four judges is one too many as each tries to grab an ample share of talk and face time. And if Kara is as brash as she seems, where does that leave loopy Paula and her inability to put two sentences together? As Simon quipped, and I suspect only half-jokingly, "Paula will have to speak less."

I'm not a Paula fan, but I'm feeling sorry for her. So, Paula, don't be the lobster in the pot: The water feels warm, like a soothing sauna, and you're liking it. But you're not noticing that the temperature is rising and, before you know it, you're lolled to sleep and then boiled alive.

Girl, you need to develop some tough, teflon pincers.