Kudos to Best Buy. I wish there was more of a Criterion-esque relationship with music labels. Where they sell the Ashlee Simpson crap for $14.99 and then sell the good indie stuff for $7.99.

I can't remember the last time I bought a cd from Best Buy, but that's mostly due to location. I don't feel like driving across town to it. There is an indie store a couple of blocks from me that gets my business occasionally.

Right next to two of my favorite concert venues is another store. Independent Records. I'm not entirely sure how "independent" they are, but there is only a few of them in town. If I'm early for a concert, I'll either get a beer across the street, or buy a few albums.

Other than that, I'll buy online. It's easier, usually cheaper, and sometimes you get other free stuff.

I don't have a problem with Best Buy doing this. Power to whoever gets me the music cheapest. Mom and Pop seems to be a phrase that people hold on to, but usually means smaller selection for larger price.

I'd prefer to shop at my favorite indie stores, but I generally do pick up loss leaders at BB as it's closer and cheaper. I bought the new Cat Power and Broken Social Scene for $8 each, and they would have been $12-15 each at the indie shop.

Until Best Buy starts selling used cd's/vinyl (probably not gonna happen) and has a better selection though, the indie stores should not worry too much

*cry*

And for the person who said they don't carry local music, my BBY is starting a test carrying local music...so that's not far behind.

= J