Techno punk; a high-tech spin on ‘Compass’

We think you should talk about: Daft Punk’s new album. Everything this French duo (Guy-Manuel de Homem-Christo and Thomas Bangalter) does is awesome -- their Hedi Slimane-designed leather outfits; the pitch-perfect, universally adored dance music they make; and the crazy pyramid light show they took around the world this summer (greatest show we’ve ever seen). This week they release “Alive 2007,” an album recorded in Paris in front of 18,000 devoted fans on June 14. Close your eyes and pretend you were there. (Tuesday)

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You will talk about: “The Golden Compass.” We’re all for epic children’s stories that have magic in them, and we even tried to read this book over the summer to be fully prepared for the film. Our mistake. We barely made it through 50 pages before giving up and deciding to wait for the movie, which stars Nicole Kidman, Daniel Craig and a computer-animated polar bear. “I have a contract with the child.” Roar! (Friday)

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We suppose you could talk about: The 300th episode of “ER.” We barely remember a time before “ER,” but in actuality we were 17 when this show started -- still in high school, clomping around in Doc Martens, wearing dog chains as necklaces. (Ah, 1994.) This week the series that launched George Clooney’s career celebrates its milestone with the help of Peter Fonda. Go, Stamos! (Thursday)

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We’re not surprised you can talk about: “Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Game.” We’ve long suspected the only reason to make an “Alvin and the Chipmunks” movie (coming Dec. 14) is to jump-start a run on “Alvin and the Chipmunks” merchandise. This week the selling begins with a cross-console release of “Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Game,” which finds the little guys playing a high school prom, a forest arena and, incredibly, the Burning Man festival. Burning Man, you are now officially over. (Tuesday)

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Don’t forget to talk about: The first day of Hanukkah. Every once in a while the Jewish holidays trick us and come a lot earlier than anyone expects. This year, Hanukkah starts Tuesday. Just an FYI so you aren’t caught unaware. (Tuesday)

-- Deborah Netburn