Cornmeal Records just announced their 2005 release schedule, and there are a couple of cool surprises. First, in June, they’ll be releasing a Diesel Doug and the Long Haul Truckers retrospective titled, Mistakes Were Made, which will include a number of the "greatest hits" off Fine Art of Carousing and An Angel Not a Saint, plus a couple of new tracks they’re recording. Cornmeal honcho Charlie Gaylord is the lead guitarist for DD+LHT, so this ought to be a fun package (and will include a piece from "Beat Report" nerd Sam Pfeifle). Also, look for a Darien Brahms retrospective in July — great idea — before GFAC 207, Vol. 6 hits the streets in November.

The Leftovers are selling a new EP at shows for only a buck. It’s got two songs from Stop Drop Rock N Roll, plus three brand-new treats. DIY packaging equals DIY price, so don’t look for killer liner art.

The 21st Annual Reindeer Rock-Off finals will feature Grand Slam Breakfast (a finalist last year), Midriff, Interobang, O.R.B.I.T.S., and the Shams. The showdown goes down on May 21, at Catherine McAuley, per usual. Look for Midriff, out of Scarborough, as the local favorites. The Shams, home-schooled, may not have the fanbase to take the title, as crowd response is a big factor with the judges. But the "Sibilance" staff could be wrong about that. It’s not like we had any friends in high school.