The new kids definitely do have some chops, and are bringing new energy and ideas to the show. Except Kenan Thompson. The only really funny bit he does is "Deep House Dish". THAT is funny. But Bill Hader has a good range of impressions, Andy Samberg is funny and very creative, and Kristen Wiig rounds out well; she's pretty versatile in terms of fitting in a number of different types of sketches. Will Forte is a really strong addition to the cast as well - you can't look at a Tim Calhoun bit and tell me that's not funny. I just wish they'd get Maya Rudolph back, she was really great.
The 'Digital Shorts' are usually pretty inventive and outside the box for SNL, which is nice to see. They're also where Andy Samberg gets to shine - see classics like "Lazy Sunday" and "Dick in a Box".
I'm not saying it's all roses - it's still tough to watch an entire 90 minutes all the way through sometimes, and it is still pretty hit-and-miss, but I think they're doing fine and are on their way up.
With the Milkshake sketch... I think Will Forte makes it for me. I seriously had that theme song in my head for two straight days, it's hilarious. Plus, the old man bit works really well in this sketch!. And of course, Hader's impression (especially his voice!) was dead-on, and he was awesome!
ok, i'm done yakkin'. (for now)