Lots of new things for your consideration instore now, not least of which is the Chris Knox tribute/ benfit album "Stroke". Featuring a stellar line-up local and international talent, including The Chills, The Verlaines, The Mint Chicks, Shayne Carter, Will Oldham, Stephin Merritt, and so many more, at only $25 for a double CD it's a great way to help fund Knoxy's rehabilitation, and to bag yourself a great selection of worthy tributes to his music in one fell swoop.

Also fresh out on the shelves is the latest from local D'n'B behemoths Shapeshifter, called "The System Is A Vampire", along with sterling new efforts from 'none more indie' Auckland girl duo The Gladeyes (the wonderfully titled "Psychosis Of Love"), Yo La Tengo's surprisingly funky "Popular Songs" and Bob Dylan's (ahem!) Christmas album "Christmas In The Heart"...

Yowsa! Which brings us round to the fact that, yet again, Santa and the Elves are poised and ready - all you need do is load up their sleighs...