On Campus: Music

Mind Over Music: Doug Kresse may be one of the coolest professors on campus, though you may not realize it because he teaches two of least "cool" subjects in college- speech and debate. However, he has received a very creditable reputation for being quite knowledgeable when it comes to hip, indie music and what's hot in the industry. This doesn't come as a surprise, considering he was born and raised in Portland, Oregon, the city Slate Magazine calls the indie capital of America.

Kresse's current love is with new and upcoming music. He loves checking out new bands and artists live; he tries to fit as many shows into his schedule as possible. The last show he saw was Thurston Moore of Sonic Youth at the Echo located on Sunset Blvd. Besides the Echo, some of Kresse's favorite venues include Spaceland on Silverlake Blvd in Los Angeles and the Troubadour on Santa Monica Blvd in West Hollywood. He also tries to catch free shows at Amoeba and Fingerprints, two of Kresse's highly recommended record stores. As far as music goes, here are some albums that changed his life and some he thinks you should check out for yourself.

5-Life Changing Albums: 1. "Meet the Beatles!" - The Beatles 2. "OK Computer" - Readiohead 3. "Begin" - The Millenium 4. "Sweet Heart of the Rodeo" - The Byrds 5. "Abbey Road" - The Beatles

What You Should Be Playing Now: Silversun Pickups- "This band reminds me of the Smashing Pumpkins only better. Great live performances"

Cold War Kids- "Blues-rock with gritty lyrics and riveting live shows. Nathan Willett, the lead singer of CWK, has vocals that remind me of Jeff Buckley- classic."

Sea Wolf- "They were touted as one of the best CDs in 2007. They have a core of songs that are catchy and beautifully executed. I saw them first about a year and a half ago at Costa Mesa's Detroit Bar. They have fantastic live shows."

Nyles Lannon- "His song 'River' is one of my top favorite songs of 2007. If you like Elliot Smith, you will like Lannon's melodies.

Bat for Lashes- "Bat for Lashes was regarded as one of the best UK bands in 2007. Their CD reminds me of a mix between Blond Redhead and a really good 60s girl group."