Great in '08.

Just for fun, here are some of the album releases I'm anticipating this year...

The Duke Spirit "Neptune"- I'm not entirely sure when/if this is getting a U.S. release date, but hopefully I'll get a copy of my very own soon...to sample some of the new cuts, head on over to http://www.dukespirit.com/lovetoken/. So far, so good.

Vampire Weekend's self-titled debut- They're generating a solid buzz amongst the numerous mp3/media blogs, but my first exposure to the band was through NPR's All Songs Considered podcast...after sampling a few of their other tracks, I'm keyed into their sound as well...should be a good upbeat soundtrack to carry me into the springtime.

New Portishead this year? I hope so...the band performed 5 new songs at the All Tomorrow's Parties festival this past December, and the magic seems to still be there, even with a 10-year lapse from their last album. Fingers crossed for this one.

Though I am barely familiar with Stephen Malkmus' work, either solo or with Pavement, I'm looking forward to the release of "Real Emotional Trash". How come? Two words: Janet Weiss. Certainly this album will also be the starting point for my exploration of all things Malkmus.

Rumors are swirling in regards to a possible My Bloody Valentine album...not as confident about this release, but I'll certainly look into it if/when the new material comes to light. Other rumored releases include Autolux and the Yeah Yeah Yeahs, the former of which I more eagerly await. Nevertheless, I am curious as to where the YYYs will take their new material...

Glancing at this year's album forecast, I can pick out a few more potential gems...

Dead Meadow "Old Growth"

Boris "Smile"

Apollo Sunshine "Mysteries Of The Old Soul"

Flight of the Conchords

Doves

If this year is anything like last year, I will be discovering plenty of new bands along the way, so no matter what comes of these releases, my ears will be happy. Guaranteed.