So, Spotify is allegedly (finally) coming to the US.

I, for one, welcome our new music overlords. Rhapsody pulled a fast one on me yesterday, after years of loyal service with them (dating all the way back to when Windows Media / MTV’s Urge was enveloped). They told me I needed to up my plan. I’m basically giving them an “up yours” and likely switching to Spotify when it’s available. There’s also Grooveshark, but it’s not available in the iTunes app store (which makes it a non-option for me).

How did Rhapsody offend me? They’ve switched their plans, rendering the standing $10 a month option only viable if you have one mobile device. I happen to have two mobile devices (plus Sonos), which would push me into their $15 a month plan – and that’s a bit steep, considering the active alternative: Rdio.

For $10 a month on Rdio, you get unlimited web AND mobile access. While the library on Rdio may not be the same as what’s on Rhapsody, I can’t see Rhapsody giving THAT much more value for the additional $5 I’d spend with them every month. I was given a trial with Rdio but didn’t renew it. I’m waiting to see what Spotify will have to offer me (in terms of pricing AND features) before I spend money with Rdio.

I’m also considering downgrading my Pandora premium account when it’s up for renewal this September – not because I don’t use Pandora prolifically, but because it’s not delivering insane value for the money I’ve spent (and higher quality audio and fewer commercials doesn’t cut it for me). Not to mention: WHO still uses Flash for web services?!

The good news is: I can easily float between these music subscriptions without fearing I’ve lost much. I can still get access to most (if not all) of the music I love, and not have to worry about buying tracks ala carte or going through the nightmare of managing media in any way. That, and… at least I’m trying to play along with the industry.

Tell me I’m not alone with these music subscription service woes?!

Music Services I use: Rhapsody vs Rdio vs Spotify vs Pandora

This phrase is used all over the world, I think, and can have many different meanings. However, in the case of a thread on Geeks today, it means exactly what it says! The poster is asking who else was (or is) involved in band during high school. I was never in band, but my assistant Kat was. Not only that – she was also the marching band Drum Major for two years!

It’s been said that what happens at band camp stays at band camp. However, I’m curious. Do you have any stories you’re willing to share? Was it as awesome of an experience as people have claimed? Keep your comments/stories family friendly and clean, please! Remember our younger audience!

While you’re thinking up your story, or reliving your memories, make sure to check out what else our community has in store for you today.

• Microsoft has confirmed when Windows 7 will be released.
• Is the Xbox Live Arcade snubbing Indie developers?
• A new study has identified a potential fix for damaged knees.
• Will Microsoft ever give ActiveX the axe?
• Are you planning to check out the new Ghost operating system?
• iCloud is an operating system that runs inside of your browser.
• Is it time to retire the land line?
• Why not advertise your business locally using social networks?
• Gnash is so close – yet so far away.
• Don’t feel discolored – it’s just a phone!
• Would you buy a car from eBay?
• How can you post screen shots directly to WordPress?
• Turn a megaphone into a low-frequency spy device.
• Microsoft is launching a Spotify alternative.

This One Time, at Band Camp