Meanwhile in Downers Grove...

In addition to the Randy Newman concert on November 3 that I'm missing while in Europe, look what's just been announced for the very next day:

On the morning of Saturday, November 4 at the Tivoli Theatre in Downers Grove, Lemony Snicket (aka Daniel Handler) will be making an appearance. For the entrance fee of just $20, you get a copy of his new book, a booksigning, a screening of the Lemony Snicket film, a special presentation by the author, and...

a live solo ukelele performance by Stephin Merritt (as The Gothic Archies).

All you lucky folks still at home, head over to Anderson's Bookshop to get your ticket.

In related news:

• On October 10, The Gothic Archies will release the music accompanying the Lemony Snicket book in album-form.
• The Magnetic Fields are working on a new album that should be released in the spring.
• The Future Bible Heroes have a new song on a Neil Gaiman tribute CD.
• Stephin Merritt recorded a new song called "The Meaning of Lice" for a contemporary retelling of the Book of Exodus, funded by the British government. The album also features songs by Laurie Anderson, Brian Eno, Rufus Wainwright, and others.

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Die Wiener Kompilation

• Stephin Merritt - One April Day
  from the Pieces of April soundtrack (2003)
• The Magnetic Fields - I Don't Believe You
  original 7" version (1998)
• The Gothic Archies - Ever Falls The Twilight
  from The New Despair (1997)
• Future Bible Heroes - Mr. Punch
  from Where's Neil When You Need Him? (2006)
• Randy Newman - Tickle Me
  from Randy Newman Live (1971)