In other (musical) news...

A reminder that Smile finally comes out this month (Sept 28). U2's next album (probably named Veritgo) is now supposedly coming out in November. R.E.M.'s next album, Around The Sun comes out in early October. (you can stream a copy of their first single from their site). Beck is supposedly working on a new album. Paul McCartney has been working on one, but no word on when it comes out. There apparently will be 2 new John Lennon releases this Fall. Lennon Acoustic, which appears to be a selection of acoustic tracks, some commercially released versions, some culled from the Lennon Anthology set, and some "unavailable until now". Given the quality of his acoustic demos/etc, it could be quite interesting. They are also releasing a remastered/expanded Rock and Roll this fall. Given that has some of the muddiest sound of any of his releases, the obligatory remix may actually help the sonics. (yes, I know there were major problems with the remix of Plastic Ono Band, but the other ones have been pretty decent in my not so humble opinion) Unfortunatly, much of the bonus material appears to be taken from the existing Menlove Ave release. Now to see if they bother to try to fix the sound on what I consider his worst sounding release, Walls & Bridges. (incidentally one I consider vastly underrated) Leonard Cohen's next album is now slated for October (for me to get as a present for my father) That's the major news I know of on the music front. No update on the supposed boxed set of Capitol versions of Beatles albums... Given we're getting pretty late in the year, it's looking increasingly unlikely to come out this year.