Okay, before the letters come in, that is a band. They're from L.A. and called The Negro Problem. Their singer sometimes goes solo, with bassist/partner-in-crime, Heidi. His name is Stew.

I didn't think I'd ever want to just write in praise of a band. My favorite groups are the Doors and Beatles. Everyone already knows about them.

But it bothers me that Stew isn't living in some fancy crib, like the rich rappers I see on that MTV show.

He's the best songwriter working today. I was shocked when the singer of Counting Crows (who I can't stand), said the same thing.

I was shocked when, I did something I haven't done since 9th grade, when trying to impress a girl and make her a "mix tape" like John Cusak did in High Fidelity.

I met a woman who is so intelligent, and has such great taste in everything, that I had to turn her on to Stew.

"Mix tapes" are so much easier now. It's "burned CDs."

I don't want to try to write my favorite songs of his and dissect them. But, a few gems for you to seek out: Rehab, Single Woman Sitting, Bijoui, Doubting Uncle Tom, Naked Dutch Painter, Daddy Feelgood, Ken, Statue Song, oh damn...as Reagan would've said "there I go again." I would've typed another 200 songs!

Seek him out.

And enjoy a delicious helping of Stew. It'll warm your soul.