Free Yr Radio

Free Yr Radio, a campaign launched by Toyota and Urban Outfitters in support of independent radio, is getting a soundtrack. It's a benefit compilation CD that's coming out tomorrow (a release date chosen to coincide with non-commercial radio's biggest event, the CMJ conference in Manhattan - an event we've gotten more press releases about than we can count). The compilation features a collection of live music, B-side tracks and previously unreleased material from the campaign's participating bands, and it's available exclusively at Urban Outfitters stores nationwide, and from the retailer's catalog and web site at www.urbanoutfitters.com. All profits from the CD will be divided among the campaign's participating radio stations (one of which is our very own Y-Rock on XPN in Philadelphia).

This CD is already worth it to support such a good cause (go Y-Rock!), but it's got some pretty freaking good music on it, too. It's practically a who's who of indie rock superstars, with bands like the Klaxons, Voxtrot, the Annuals, Rogue Wave, Tapes 'n Tapes, Dinosaur Jr., Grizzly Bear, and even Sonic Youth providing tracks. Most compilations of this sort end up being pretty uneven in terms of quality, but this one is quite strong throughout. Particular favorites of ours include The Rapture's fun, rocking "Crimson Red," Grizzly Bear's powerful live rendition of "Little Brother," and The Long Winters' moving and dramatic "Commander Thinks Aloud." If you're cruising by Urban Outfitters this weekend—either in the real world or the virtual one—consider picking up a copy.

Image Credit: Flickr user Menes on the rocks