A curious Christgau, a futile cassette dig, live versus recorded, tuneful versus melodic, remembering Pulnoc, and the lineaments of delight are all addressed in the Thanksgiving edition of Xgau Sez at my irrepressible Substack And It Don't Stop. robertchristgau.substack.com/p/xgau-sez-n...

The October Consumer Guide is more about love than about the onslaught of fascism, which I wish I could tell you bodes well for a loving future. robertchristgau.substack.com/p/consumer-g...

Having chosen to watch a documentary to help my wife and I go to sleep a week or so ago, I ended up so moved and impressed that I felt compelled to spread the news about the late anthropologist Jane Goodall's "famous last words."
robertchristgau.substack.com/p/a-compelli...

Was shocked to learn of the death of poet-rock critic Joshua Clover at only 62. Reports that he died in the hospital of a breathing disorder jibe too well with what I've been noticing with alarm--post the late-winter pneumonia wave other nasty respiratory ills keep rising to the surface. Be careful.

Much sooner than I'd hoped when I posted about him a few weeks ago, New York Doll frontman David Johansen died today. In my critical opinion and also in my heart, a literally incomparable figure whether transmuting trash into genius or looking for a kiss--and don't forget Buster Poindexter either.

And on a self-promotional note, let me announce that the 2024 Dean's List, as what is this year my top 74 is called, is now available with auxiliary commentary at my Substack "newsletter" And It Don't Stop.
robertchristgau.substack.com/p/deans-list...

It's that time of year again, folks. Peruse this list, and discover your new favorite. (I'm listening the Louis Armstrong album tonight, and it is giving me life.)