The most awesome (non-audio related) iTunes feature...print CD covers!

I can't believe that I had no idea this feature existed before tonight. I downloaded a program last year just for this specific purpose! I guess I never knew iTunes even had a Print feature. But it does! And it's awesome if you're looking for a simple way to print a front jewel case insert. I don't know who uses jewel cases much anymore, but I've used a mosaic program similar to this before when making mix CDs for friends. Read the full article at iLounge.com.

Essential Listening - February 7, 2006

I've had a leaked copy of this album since the beginning of December, but I hadn't sat down and listened to the whole thing from beginning to end until last week. Now I can't quit playing it, and it just gets better with every spin.

I made a point to leave work "on time" today so I could stop by Grimey's and pick up the limited edition super deluxe version of the album. The deluxe version is packaged in small, hardbound book style case and comes with a bonus DVD. The DVD has six songs from the record performed live in the BBC studios plus commentary from the band members. It makes me sad to think that in 5 years or so CDs will probably be as dead as the 8-track. It's not that I really care that much for CDs, but I'm a sucker for packaging. I guess I will just have to buy an ION USB turntable and start buying vinyl. The LP of this album is supposed to be very nice too. 180 gram vinyl, pressed at RTI with a gatefold sleeve.

*Click the album image to go the the Matador Website and listen to a free Quicktime stream of the entire Belle and Sebastian album "The Life Pursuit" and get a peak at the album art.


I also picked up a copy of the new Avett Brothers album, "Four Thieves Gone" while I was at Grimey's, but I haven't had a chance to listen to it yet. I've heard a few songs that have been floating around the blogosphere and they are all outstanding, but for some reason I still think that Mignonette will remain my favorite album.

Happy Tuesday!

Bonnaroo is looking pretty tempting.

Too bad tickets are close to $200.

2006 Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival confirmed artists:

Radiohead; Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers; Elvis Costelo & the Imposters; Bonnie Raitt; Death Cab for Cutie; moe; Bright Eyes; The Neville Brothers; Bela Fleck & the Flecktones; Buddy Guy; Damian Marley; Ben Folds; Robert Randolph & the Family Band; Dr. John; Matisyahu; G. Love & Special Sauce; My Morning Jacket; Ricky Skaggs & Kentucky Thunder; Steel Pulse; Mike Gordon and Ramble; Dove; Cat Power; Medeski Martin & Wood; Nickel Creek; Gomez; Steve Earle; Blues Traveler; Stephen Malkmus & the Jicks; Dresden Dolls; Son Volt; Clap Your Hands Say Yeah; Jerry Douglas; Soulive; Rusted Root; Devendra Banhart Band; Donavon Frankenreiter; Mike Doughty; Sasha; Grace Potter & the Nocturnals; The Magic Numbers; Bill Frisell; Seu Jorge; Bettye LaVette; Dungen; Shooter Jennings; Rebirth Brass Band; Robinella; Andrew Bird; Steel Train; Jackie Greene; Devotchka; Wood Brothers; dios (malos); Toubab Krewe; Marah; I-Nine; Balkan Beat Box; and Cat Empire.

Many more acts will be announced shortly.

To find out more, visit Bonnaroo's official festival Web site at www.bonnaroo.com.

According to the article in the Manchester Times.