t was lamented to me by BigYawn's assistant editor CJ, that with all the work he does on the site, he has little time to discover new music. That was funny I thought, since that's all I seem to do. While CJ does a bunch of the web work and design for the site, I make sure the bills are paid, the writers are happy and work on various time consuming products that will inevitably require some of CJ's time to make happen. But somewhere inbetween, I learn about new music practically every single day. A lot of times it finds me, in the forms of e-mails or CDs, but other times I just dig it up on my own.

As a perfect example, while I sit typing this, I'm watching watching Subtarrenean -- the one worthwhile show on any MTV network, learning about new music. Though, I wonder why all the videos host Jim Shearer announces are never in the order he says they will be. He just announced the finalists for the Shortlist Prize (see our main page), America's version of the Mercury Prize; better known as the award for people who like good music.

Anyway, while watching I have seen videos from Hope of the States and current Single of the Week favs, The Dresden Dolls. And while I was typing this, I'm also reading an e-mail from a band called Argentine, from NYC. And I'm also listening to Ash's newest CD, Meltdown, during the commercial breaks. That's a lot of new music all happening virtually at the same exact time. I'm a little overwhelmed.

My point, is that I've got the best job ever. I get paid to... oh wait... ok, it's not the best job ever. I've got the best hobby ever. I get to spend all of my free time listening and learning about new music and then report it back to you. Sure, a few sleepless nights now and then, but I do get to write this column every week. I'm still shooting for a GQ-esque picture of me at my desk...

On another note, I wanted to thank everyone for all the kind words you have showered on us since our return. We appreciate the patience you have had all Summer. We are really excited, and hope you are too.

Check back next week as I break down the Shortlist nominees. In the meantime, I'll make sure CJ listens to some new stuff.

-e 9/20/04