This letter is in response to one written by Dallas Smoke and published in The State News on Tuesday (“Paper reviews unpopular music,” SN 11/28). The State News should be commended for choosing to review music that is not widely popular or does not receive the attention in the national press that it deserves. By reviewing music that many have not considered, or may not be aware of, it opens the door for the discovery of artists that may not be popular, but still make quality music. A review of a CD that was already expected to break sales records on the day of its release would be a waste of space because most people’s decision to buy the Backstreet Boys’ “Black & Blue” does not hinge on a good review by The State News. I would rather see reviews of music that I have not heard, so that I can use the music reporter’s opinion to make my own decision. Keep up the good work and quality reviews.

John Voorhess
no-preference freshman