Spiritualized has a new album coming out May 26th (in the UK) from Spaceman Records. The Album, titled songs in A&E, does not yet have a US release date. I'm really looking forward to that- it has been too long, Jason Spaceman, too long. In unrelated news, Adam Franklin of Swervedriver and Sam Fogarino of Interpol have formed a new band called Magnetic Morning. An EP has already been released through itunes and should be coming out via DH records in April. You can hear the tracks at their Myspace, www.myspace.com/magneticmorning, it sounds pretty good.

The International songwriters competion has released the semifinalists for 2007 but more importantly is excepting early entries now for 2008. I just caught wind of this competition and am considering sending in songs myself. The ISC's stated mission is "to provide the opportunity for both aspiring and established artists to have their songs heard in a professional, international arena." The competition allows you to enter multiple songs in multiple categories or the same category including "lyrics only." There is a fee for entries but its not outrageous. The list of celebrity judges they have for this competition is impressive including Tom Waits, Robert Smith , Loretta Lynn and Macy Gray to name a few. Check out their site for more information. www.songwritingcompetition.com

Rock the Earth, a Denver based environmental advocacy organization, received a $10,000 grant from the band Incubus' Make Yourself Foundation. This is largest single grant to date for the organization as well as the second significant donation in recent months. Bonnie Raitt's Aria foundation contributed to RTE in November. Rock the Earth (RtE) is a three year old non-profit environmental defense and advocacy organization that draws its support from musicians and their fans. RtE has a presense at major music festivals across the country as well as touring with some bands. At these events outreach and advocacy takes place and fans are informed on issues concerning the environment and given the chance to get involved.

More info on RtE at www.rocktheearth.org

Seems like we've been hearing a lot from old favorites lately. The Jesus and Marychain are out on tour and planning a new album. Dinosaur jr has reformed under its original line up (namely, Jay Mascis, Lou Barlow and Murph) for the first time since '89 and will begin touring next month. The Charlatans UK are releasing a new album, for free even, through NME this month. Alas the rumored reunion of the Pixies appears to be off for the moment, maybe someday.