This week's music feature is on the local band Snake! Snake! Snakes!, who are starting to get a lot of national attention, particularly from the college radio world. Despite their burgeoning success, the group has a bit of a problem a la Spinal Tap: They can't hold onto a drummer.

Chris Hansen Orf draws some thought-provoking parallels between Merle Haggard and tough guy/proud American Toby Keith. He might threaten to stick his boot where the sun don't shine, but his patriotism and boldness will stir you to the core -- whether you agree with him or not.

And what has Ted Nugent taught us about the need for civil, political dialogue? He may ruffle some feathers routinely, but he threatened to "knee cap" Martin Cizmar, and called Brian Bardwell a prick. Here is a thoughtful response to those comments.

Plus we've got show previews for Overcome, Southwest Psycho-Fest, Brian's Escape, Mini-Ozzfest, and Mark Matos and Os Beaches.

• Music News