The nights are closing in and the on-season is gradually approaching, so it’s time to take a look at what’s happened in the world of ESC news since our last summary in late August.

First things first, we apparently have an artist’s impression of the venue, even if there’s no concrete news (no pun intended) as to how construction is progressing so far. The Baku Crystal Hall is being built near the National Flag Square and, true to its name, is set to feature extensive glass walls with the Caspian Sea and the city skyline serving as an impressive backdrop to the stage (along with the inevitable video screens).

As usual at this time of year, there’s a lot of to-ing and fro-ing about just who’ll be appearing on that stage in Baku. A reasonably official statement from the national broadcaster initially suggested that Slovakia wouldn’t be returning (despite getting a relatively good result in 2011 by their standards!), although it was later denied that any final decision had been taken. Their neighbours in the Czech Republic have also taken the opportunity to say they haven’t made up their mind just yet. Which is nice of them.

Latvia will certainly be there, anyway – indeed, they’ve gone to the other extreme and made all 70 submitted songs available to the public. You can listen to them and cast a vote for your favourite at http://www.eirovizija.lv/2012/ – but be quick, voting closes on 1 November!

The online selection process organised by the German-language broadcaster in Switzerland is also well and truly underway, with none other than Lys Assia in the running for a place in the televised final on 10 December 2011. Her Ralph Siegel-penned entry can be heard here along with all the other candidates. If she wins, we’re sure she’ll find Azerbaijan to be a lovely town.

Norway has announced some tweaks to its selection format, with three regional semi-finals of eight songs and no Last Chance round this year. As always, though, the process will culminate in a grand final to be held in Oslo Spektrum on 11 February. The first confirmed entrants are X Factor girl group Irresistible and JESC 2005 alumnus (and established tweenpop star) Malin Reitan.

Meanwhile, those “Jedward for Ireland 2012″ rumours just refuse to go away. The duo’s official Twitter account (@planetjedward) keeps hinting that John and Edward will be returning to the contest next year following their top 10 finish in Düsseldorf with “Lipstick”, but there’s been no confirmation from RTE as yet – although no denial either. Is it a careful ploy by their management team to eke more money out of the national broadcaster? Is there any truth in the story at all? Only time will tell. Meanwhile, at the time of writing, the boys are busy imploding at the prospect of appearing on-stage with Britney Spears. Bless.

As you can see, things are starting to hot up as we approach the national final season – so don’t forget to join us in the chatroom to discuss anything and everything, from where to get hold of a Jedhead mask to what we’re having for tea. See you in there!