If heaven seems a little warmer, it's because Alex Chilton is writing lovely melodies for the celestial choir. And if hell seems globally cooler, it's because The Stooges are in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Contemplating that reality, I consider new CDs from Bettie Serveert, Goldfrapp & Gregory, Joe Bonamassa and Mose Allison, plus a new DVD version of 'Blank Generation.'  

Having legendary singer/songwriter Alex Chilton die during the weekend of Austin's massive music showcase/conference South By Southwest is kind of like if Stan Lee died on the first day of Comic-Con. You'd be hard pressed to find an event where Chilton would be more understood, appreciated and instantly missed.