LETTERS

The two recent articles showcasing upcoming music releases in 2009 greatly shortchanged veteran acts everywhere [“Forward Thinking,” by August Brown, Dec. 31, and “Dig New Sounds? Then Listen Up,” pop music staff, Jan. 1].

Much of 2008’s best music was provided by artists such as Carly Simon, Sheryl Crow, John Hiatt, Aimee Mann, Rick Springfield, Pretenders, The Motels, Lindsey Buckingham and Rodney Crowell. What do all these acts have in common? They’ve been recording for 15 years or more. Yet, due to this simple fact, none of them are thought of as the next “hot” thing, and much of this music went unheralded.

Why not mention some of the veteran acts who have new releases coming this year, among them Rosanne Cash, Chris Isaak, Heart, Wendy & Lisa, U2 and Bruce Springsteen. By blatantly disregarding these veteran artists, you’ve not only done them (and their fans) a great disservice, but your readers as well.

Jef Fazekas

Newport Beach