Head full of sermons, mouth full of spiders.

ALDaily links to an article on the crumbling totalitarian regime in North Korea here. Apparently Korean Christians have set up something of an 'underground railroad,' providing egress to South Korea for folks oppressed in the North. Ain't it great how history repeats itself (except in this instance, people are moving North to South)? Apparently these actions, combined with other factors are causing things in North Korea to change more rapidly than previously thought.

Evaluate Bush's track record in light of previous "State of the Union" promises here.

With the quality of music that is being released this month, making a Top Ten list at the end of the year may be impossible, if the trend keeps up. That's alright, because such exercises are rather odious, anyways.

For instance, there's the new Bright Eyes album. Emo-earnestness is always more palatable when served up with a side of Emmylou Harris and pedal steel.

Also, Magnolia Electric Company's new live disc, "Trials & Errors." It's nice to know that we've got someone to replace Neil Young if should ever pass on (God forbid).

Kelly Joe Phelps finally releases live material, with "Tap the Red Cane Whirlwind." I don't understand how music can be stimultaneously rustic and ornate, but Phelps embraces that paradox like you ain't never heard. This guy should be huge. Mount Rushmore huge.

Bonnie "Prince" Billy's "Superwolf," which defies explanation, for now.

Also, New West records has finally reissued the Drive-By Truckers' first two albums, "Gangstabilly," and "Pizza Deliverance." Patterson Hood's voice is gloriously ragged on these discs, sounding not unlike that time you dropped a fork in the garbage disposal unit.

Finally, Pitchfork gives Magneta Lane some serious props for their new album. By the by, the mighty Citizen A will be warming up the crowd for them at the Embassy Hotel in London, Ontario, Saturday, Feb 19. ((Shane, don't forget that I knew you back when. The band bio is forthcoming, I promise))