iTunes 8

So I downloaded iTunes 8 yesterday, mostly because I've got a Mac and there really aren't that many music players that are as well integrated and easy to use. Also, there's a new feature called Genius (typical Apple naming!). It queries your database, and makes playlist recommendations for you based on a chosen song. So pick mid 80s U2, click Genius, and a playlist is returned featuring similar music. Great! With a somewhat large library, the work required to make good playlists is staggering.

Well, not so fast. For one, it recommends you purchase music you might already own. Easy enough, just don't buy stuff. Second, it can't always make a recommendation. Seriously, "Mountain Music" is NOT a unknown song. (Don't ask). Third, sometimes the recommendations are... strange. Click Feeder's "Just The Way I'm Feeling" and get Razorlight, Stereophonics, and Libertines. All good so far, but wait, what's that? Mike + the Mechanics?

Huh?

Now I like the individual members of Genesis as much as anybody, but seriously, those two bands are not even close in any shape or form. Some work still required.

Oh, and for you Vista users, a wait is suggested. Having an iPod plugged in can have disastrous results.