Me2, a "groundbreaking" novel by queer author, M. Christian, promises to offer a "shocking new view of queer identity." These are quite some words to live up to, especially in today's cramped market of entertainment that panders to the gay community. Unfortunately, Me2, breaks no ground, nor does it shock with new views. Instead, it places itself safely in the center of the dance floor with it's shirt sticking out of its back pocket. It only took me a few pages to lose interest in this story, mainly because of a highly unlikable protagonist who is as bland as the Starbucks where he spends most of his time.

Having lived in Brooklyn during the short life and death of Electroclash, I thought I had heard enough eighties influenced synth-pop to last me another twenty years. Lately, that sound has subsided for a more guitar heavy indie sound that I have embraced with open ears. This is why I was surprised to slip Shitting Glitter's Free Alongside Ship into my player and realize that the eighties haven't gone anywhere and it isn't a bad thing. Shitting Glitter, an L.A. based trio (Amy Crosby, Devin Tait and Brandon Glen), constructs undeniably queer pop with its playfull synthesizer beats, evocative lyrics and striking vocals.