PopTodd

Eat at: The Weiner Circle. But, go during the day before the circus begins. The thing is, you can still get some of that attitude during the day, if you like. But it's less of a freakshow. And, truth be told, the food, itself, it really good there. Get a char dog and cheese fries. (Split the fries with someone; they're huge.) And those cheese fries are the best I've ever had.

A band that I keep meaning to, but forgetting to check out.

I discovered Big Star the exact same way. I'm sure a lot of us did. Nice call, even if it isn't quite the same.

Oh yeah! • The Nerves -- ("Hanging On the Telephone" - Blondie) • Jim Ford -- ("Ju Ju Man" - Brinsley Schwarz) • Ronnie Self -- ("Home In My Hand" - Brinsley Schwarz) • Gene Clark -- ("Why Not Your Baby?" - Velvet Crush) • Daniel Johnston -- ("Speeding Motorcycle" - Yo La Tengo)

So, thanks to a comment from a friend, I got to thinking: What are some of your favorite bands that you have discovered through other bands covering their songs? Lay 'em out there!!! Me, in no particular order: • The McKinleys -- ("Sweet and Tender Romance - The Bangles) • Slapp Happy -- ("The Drum" - Bongwater AND "Blue Flower" - Mazzy Star) • Roky Erickson (the entire "Where the Pyramid Meets the Eye" tribute record) • Emitt Rhodes ("Live" - The Bangles) I'll post more as I think of them. You?

Just ordered the new Tom Zé album. I don't think that I am going to be able to complete my list until I hear that one.

No. What does the Phox sing? (sorry. too easy.)