Stephen Mejias

Kelli's never been too happy with my orange Ikea couch. After all, she has her opinions on what a couch should be. First and foremost, obviously, a couch should be comfortable. Aiding in the comfort of a couch, Kelli tells me, are things like arms and backrests and cushions made of soft fabric. All of these things work together to provide a soothing place for resting one's head and supporting one's legs after a long, tiring day in the office. My couch, however, lacks these things. To a certain degree, I'm proud of my couch for maintaining its individuality — its unwillingness to conform to society's standards of what a couch should offer and be. My couch is a rebel.

Precisely at noon, Brother Todd called to remind me. Elvis came from my cell phone, ringing singing ringing: "You were always on my mind..."

"Oh, you're still here," Elizabeth said, on her way out.

Alright, dammit, I give in: The new Sonic Youth album is pure beauty.

Robert has asked me to review the new Sonic Youth album, <i>Rather Ripped</i>. You'd think I'd be thrilled about this. I would be, normally. But, so far, I find the new Sonic Youth album to be disappointing, an underachievement. Having to review the new Sonic Youth album is beginning to stress me out. Thus: this, therapy.

Today is a special Monday in <i>Stereophile</i> land. <a href="http://blog.stereophile.com/wesphillips/061206ja/">Today is JA's birthday</a>. Happy birthday, JA. Today is also Kristina Roman's first day with us.