I've always been intrigued by other "best of" lists, but this year I decided to take it to a whole new level. I e-mailed a handful of bands that I've seen this past year in order to unearth what exactly captivated them in '07. As music listeners, it is our duty to take a keen interest in our favorite musician's influences. After all, they rocked our little world, might as well see what rocked their......

There are tons of "street team" kids out here working the crowds trying to drum up interest in bands, Mentos, beer, and even condoms. It doesn't matter who you're trying to hype, nothing beats human, personal contact, "hey big fella, you're gonna totally need these Trojan brand condoms." Yesterday we saw a half dozen super hot girls in rollerskates crossing 6th Street like they were recreating the Abbey Road album cover. So of course......