Well, who knows what asinine controversies it's going to cause this time around, but here we go again: The 2009 edition of our annual "Eight Great Local Acts" feature drops on Feb. 6, one month from today, spotlighting eight of the best and brightest acts from these parts.

For comparative purposes, here is last year's model. The 2009 version will also have lots of cool online stuff, including live-performance footage; and the package will feature updates on acts from the previous five classes. Like last year, there will be a "Great Eight" show featuring some of this year's bands at Chapel Hill's Local 506. That happens on Feb. 13 -- one week after another great local-music event, WKNC's sixth annual Double Barrel Benefit.

Now if you'll excuse me, I'd better get back to work on this...