CD Baby. These are the heroes of the independent music world. These folks are devoted to doing right by musicians, and are providing an incredible service against impossible odds. Go there, browse, and buy some albums- you will be supporting independent musicians and independent music.

Birdland Records. When I was a kid, I was lucky enough to have a family-owned neighborhood record store nearby. I think I first ventured into Birdland when I was twelve, some money from my paper route in hand. Barry knew all us kids from the neighborhood by name, which albums we liked, and which albums we needed next to continue our musical education. This one-of-a-kind place is still there, and Barry still knows all his customers by name. I don't visit Virginia Beach without stopping in- the musical education continues!

BC Designs. Ben designed the CD cover and the look and feel of this website. He's a great friend and a great designer. Be sure to check out his games and cards and beautiful jewelry, too. (Hey- who's this guy LeGrange?)

Imaginary Road. It's hard to imagine a more beautiful place to record. And the piano is magical.

Philip Aaberg. If you like solo piano music and don't know his stuff, do yourself a favor and pick some up. Phil is my favorite pianist, period.

Crowfoot. Ridiculously beautiful Canadian style celtic music.

House Red. Their website says, "Energetic, driving dance music to make you wanna move." Live, these guys are the rock and roll freight train of the contradance world. Their recording, with the exact right amount of refinement, never fails to get my pulse up.

Garland of Hours. Amy Domingues' classical, medieval, and punk music sensibilities blend effortlessly on the soundest serum. Her cello and piano playing are more haunting than ever. Every time the album finishes, I just press play again.

3 Quarks Daily. Far and away my favorite regular reading. Much to my chagrin each month, I only manage to take time to skim Harpers, and weekly, it is often an achievement to even open The New Yorker. But, for the last year, I have let precious few weeks pass without reading my quarks.