New releases: Jan. 31, 2006

Someone pass the Kleenex -- looks like I'll be spending this weekend with the bird flu a cold. Couldn't happen in the middle of the week, giving me a legitimate excuse to skip out on work, noooo. Had to arrive just in time to booger up (no pun intended) my weekend. Though considering my weekend plans consisted mainly of sitting on the sofa reading Paste, I'm not sure how much things are really compromised. Eh.

Also going uncompromised will be my CD budget next week, as it seems to be a bit of a down week for CD releases. The only groovy one I could find, in fact, is one called "Rock for Relief" from Zoe and Rounder records. It features artists such as Jack Johnson, Howie Day and Guster and is a benefit for Mercy Corps's relief efforts after the Indian Ocean tsunamis, U.S. hurricanes and Pakistan earthquakes.

Maybe I should save my money for something that will let me learn how to play the mandolin like Mr. Bill Monroe, who knew a thing or two about the subject. Seems the International Bluegrass Music Museum in Owensboro, Ky., is sponsoring a weekend camp in September to school 40 lucky people in all things Monroe. Interested? Best get in touch with these folks quick -- my guess is demand for spots is going to far outstrip supply. Ya think?