Critics raved about The Voice and entertainment writers devoted their time to spin-off The X Factor, but viewers stuck with American Idol. The show had spent seven of its past ten years on television as the highest rated series, and 2012 was no exception.

Despite ongoing controversy about rigged results and claims that the show wasn’t the career-starter that it used to be, three of season 11’s top 10 contestants were signed to record deals within months of being on the show. Not to mention, the winner’s first single became the show’s best selling debut.

If you’re wondering what last year’s top contestants are up to now, read on…

Toronto indie band Volcano Playground has been busy. They’ve renamed themselves Program and hired celebrated producer David Newfeld (Broken Social Scene, Super Furry Animals) to turn the dials on a soon-to-be-released record. The results are pretty exciting. In Newfeld’s own words, “This is what Echo and the Bunnyman or Simple Minds wish they could’ve been generating 25 years ago, let alone in 2012.”

PopMatters readers can enjoy an exclusive look at the gorgeous video for “Waiting”, the lead single from the forthcoming album, below. Let us know what you think in the comments section.

The Mickey Hart Band has released a new song, “Jersey Shore”, to benefit Hurricane Sandy relief efforts. 

Those who make a donation will also receive two bonus hours of music including the full length performance of the Mickey Hart Band Live on the Jersey Shore (August 17, 2012), and tracks from the band’s latest album Mysterium Tremendum.

“I was a kid from Coney Island, Atlantic Beach and Far Rockaway,” says Hart. “The Shore was the totem, the centerpiece, a physical representation of community spirit for many generations. [...] It’s time to rebuild what we’ve lost.  Let’s bring back the beauty.  Your help is needed now, more than ever.  Please give what you can.”

100% of the proceeds of “Jersey Shore” will go to Clean Ocean Action, who have organized over 3,800 volunteers since November 2012.