Today we’ve received word that we’re a step closer to a new, more lively voice for Metro. The 10 finalists are being recorded today, the winner will be chosen next week, and the new voice will debut next month.

The finalists will be asked to record the following messages, which will ultimately help decide whether they go on to a life of fame and fortune or trudge off to that great big graveyard of failed voice-over professionals:

1.(chime) “The doors are opening. Please stand back so customers can exit the train. When boarding please move to the center of the car.”

2. (chime) “For your safety, please step back. The doors are closing in 3, 2, 1.”

3. (chime) “Please stand back to allow the doors to close.”

The winner will get to handle all of Metro’s messages, including the new and surprisingly hostile, “We said the doors were CLOSING. Hello? That’s it. A burly Metro manager is coming to show you where you can stick those blocked train doors.”

We are, of course, relatively curious as to how the recording and judging will proceed. Is this going to be done a la “American Idol,” with a snarky three-judge panel rendering decisions on the spot, or will they be a little more along the lines of “The Gong Show,” where all but the chosen voice are gonged out of the studio?