Mom and pop stores are dying.

the Lowell Sun ought to put this prism (EVIL BIG BOX STORES ARE KILLING THE BIZ) on virtually every other retail sector.

This is not news, it is not a unique situation, and it's not even that sad. I'm sad for my friends who have seen their indie record stores go the way of the buggy whip, but the biggest reason for their demise has been a) their business practices and b) an obvious, enormous shift in the market that they cater to. Those that haven't made a concerted effort to go virtual aren't going to be in the game five years from now.

50 more CDs that won't be found on my year end lists. Or my gift lists.

ony Releases List of 50 Rootkit Infected CDs

19 Albums that won't make my best-of list. Or even into my CD player.

hypebot: At Least 19 Sony BMG Titles Including Trey Anastasio And Our Lady Peace "Protected" By Controversial Rootkit Software

And it's too bad, because I was looking forward to hearing the Coral's new album and also had interest in the Neil Diamond record as well.

It makes you wonder how Sony decided which ones get the rootkit treatment--I notice that the Bruce Springsteen "Born To Run" box set (to be released on Tuesday, November 15th) isn't on this list. Yet.

Digital music isn't saving the business

but it's probably providing CPR.