T Bone Burnett: Born Again, But Still Looking

IT HAPPENS nearly every year, and usually when you least expect it. From left field, you find a new record and end up with a new friend. And, oddly enough, it's often done in the bargain bins, away from the heavy hustle of the new release racks. What it is — what gives it that extra kick — is the randomness of the choice, like hitting a bulls-eye with the blindfold on. Of course, as the market tightens up the odds get a little longer. But that only makes picking a winner really pay off.