With so much involving music going into this issue of the Gazette, I found it appropriate to write an editorial dealing with the same subject matter (or maybe it's inappropriate, because you're tired of reading about music).

Either way, I am going to do it anyway.

While I did not delve too far into the subject in my story about John Zeps and his opening of a new record store in the village (page A1), a side note that we discussed involved how technology was killing the record store market-not only the capabilities that downloading music presents, but the idea of online mega-marts such as Amazon.com and eBay.

And of course, who can forget the already existing mega stores such as Best Buy and Virgin Records. . . Although these places, too, are experiencing financial problems due to the technological super-buying highway produced by the internet.

It could be argued otherwise, but I am not a fool. I know about Amazon and eBay. And I know about Best Buy. But where do I get my CDs? Easy-Indy CD and Vinyl.

Here's a recent experience that I had to illustrate why I go there (beyond the fact that it's extremely convenient for me).

I went in there Sunday looking for a very specific New Order CD. Of course, they had it (exhibit A: they almost always have what I am looking for).

While walking up to the counter I was distracted by a CD with three girls on the cover, calling themselves the Pipettes. I was able to listen to the CD right there, which was great because I have an extreme love for MOST girl bands (exhibit B: I was able to listen to them, thanks to the in-store listening stations).

Then, I had a very random question: do these girls play their own instruments? The answer (which was disappointing) was no, they don't.

But I was only able to get an immediate answer to that question because the ever-knowledgeable owner Rick was present to let me know (exhibit C: an owner who gives a damn).

I went ahead and bought the CD anyway, at his recommendation, regardless of the fact that these girls have a back-up band. It's quite pleasant.

When I went up to the counter to make my purchases, I was told that since I was buying new discs, I was able to get a free ticket to see Black Rebel Motorcycle Club at the Vogue that night. Very, very cool (exhibit D: one merchant in the community helping out other musical organizations based in the area).

Now, of course, I could have very easily done ALMOST all of the above via the internet. . . But would I have enjoyed BRMC with a friend at the Vogue on Sunday night if I had? Not at all.

Listed above are the obvious benefits of checking out not only Indy CD and Vinyl, but Vibes Two, Luna and Missing Link Records as well.

Turn off the iPod, stop your downloading and take a walk away from Amazon.com and go visit your local record store.

If I haven't convinced you, watch High Fidelity. I am pretty sure John Cusack is much cooler and more convincing than me.

-AP