My Least Favorite TV Event (Next to Ice Dancing)

It's Grammy time, and while my bile rises an inch higher than usual, I'd like to take time out to explore the few categories that I actually care about in music and why the nominees dissapoint me in huge ways.

Alternative:
I could have called these before they even came out. Death Cab, Franz Ferdinand and Arcade Fire were no brainers. Beck is reaching that kind of Costello-esque point where he will get nominated simply for existing. the White Stripes made a lot of sense, too, but they will be passed over, for Mr. Hanson, is my guess.

Rock:
Queens of the Stone Age surprised me for sneaking into hard rock, usually reserved for wahtever schlock Metallica is churning out. Luckily, it was their off year. Coldplay owes their entire existence to U2, who they are in the running against. "Hip" choices like the Queens, NIN, System of a Down and the like are always there to distract the fact that rock just isn't what it used to be and the real hard rock is being done in basements and out of the way rehearsal spaces.

Production, Non-Classical:
This is one of my favorite categories because noone in any way gives a shit about it. Steve Lilywhite gets a nod but for U2 and Jason Mraz, not two of his finer works. Nigel Godrich, who reinvented what a rock record could sound like with Radiohead gets his for working with McCarteny on a record that was very good but very traditional sounding. The Neptunes make amazing music on their own and are possibly the best hip-hop and pop producers around right now. Danger Mouse sneaks in for work on the Gorillaz, which I didn't think was anything special, especially since the joke and mystery about the group is long since diminshed.

Packaging:
Another one of my favorites, since packaging a record in a new and unique way is so difficult. Thivery Corporatio, Ani Difranco and Aimee Mann had records this year that were not only unique in sound but also in appearance. And my favorite for the box set category is The Ramones, whicxh came packeaged with its very own comic book in a 1950s "Weird Tales" motif.

Yeah, ranting about faceless and soulless contests. Aren't I bucking the system while sticking it to the man?

In other news, they're filming again and it's slightly more annoying than last time. there are now three cranes and the craft service tent is not located near our window. So when grips go to enjoy some delicious craft, I get to hear whatever it is they bullshit about ("Hey, man, way to hold that light." "Thanks, I really take great satisfaction in making sure Stallone's doughy featured catch the light in just the right way."). My apologies to grips everywhere.