There are many mailing lists out there that are genre-specific. SmartToons was created as a place for people who listen to well-crafted music in many categories, the unifying factor being intelligent, literate lyrics, to discuss the music they love and exchange recommendations of lesser-known artists.



A short list of typical artists: XTC, Squeeze, Richard Thompson, Bob Dylan, Randy Newman, Old 97's, Warren Zevon, Leonard Cohen, Nick Cave, Joni Mitchell, Aimee Mann, Michael Penn, the Nields, Elvis Costello, Shawn Colvin, Loudon Wainwright III, Robyn Hitchcock, Joe Jackson, David Bowie, Brian Eno, Lou Reed, Crowded House, Jimmy Webb, Dar Williams, Sparks, the McGarrigle Sisters, Cole Porter, Lucinda Williams, Ben Folds, Momus, Gilbert & Sullivan, the Loud Family, John Lennon, Lyle Lovett, the Solipsistics, Stephin Merritt, John Hiatt, John Prine, Laura Nyro - or whoever you'd like to add to the mix.



(This is not necessarily my personal taste, just an idea of the range we're talking about.)



The tone of the list is friendly and not overly didactic or snobbish (and frequently, kinda goofy). If you lack a sense of humor, this may not be the place for you. Otherwise, welcome!

Note: While self-promotion is allowed from members of our community, joining the list expressly to forward promotional materials is not acceptable. Such posts from new members will be deleted before reaching the group.