Sure, there aren't a whole lot of releases this time of year (except for a boatload of John Lennon reissues), but that doesn't mean that there's no good music out there. Seriously, until you actually hear my pick of the week, you just can't imagine how beautiful it is. If that's idea is too weighty, then turn up Iggy Pop really loud and annoy those neighbors who play Dr. Phil too loud on the TV.

Victoriaville 2007 - Anthony Braxton (Victo)/Jazz

The music of Anthony Braxton with electronics? You've got to be kidding me!

Best of Friends - Jools Holland (WEA International)/Rock

I have never had the opportunity to see (or hear) Jules Holland's television show. Now, what do I want to hear first? Norah Jones doing "In The Dark," India.Arie doing "Georgia On My Mind," or Joe Strummer with "Return of the Blues Cowboy"?

Live San Fran 1981 - Iggy Pop (MVD Audio)/Rock

Oooh, yeah. Iggy Pop at his raw best. Sure, "Lust For Life" has been ruined by those stupid ocean cruise commercials, but I still want to hear it bleeding with passion.

The Sinking of the Titantic (1969-) - Gavin Bryars (Touch)/Billboard sez 'Avant,' Mark sez 'Classical'

A friend of mine turned my on to Bryars a few years back. His original Titanic orchestral work is absolutely stunning. This version features Bryars on double bass, Philip Jeck (turntables), and Alter Ego, an Italian ensemble responsible for: percussion, brass, strings, woodwinds, keyboards, and various electronics. If you own no classical music, you should start here.