Rockers band together

n wake of the tragedies that occurred on Sept. 11, many musicians and other industry types have come together to remember those lost and to collect money for various charities and relief funds. Bands for America is college rock's contribution to the cause.\nThe album kicks off with "Mud Football," a track by Jack Johnson, which features the slide guitar of the indispensable Ben Harper. The track is fun, but has no real social value beyond that. This is a trend of much of the disc, and it's sort of cool. Unlike so many post-Sept. 11 musical tributes, this one isn't self-important, it's fun and when necessary it will take a more reflective tone.\nCurrent college rock mainstays The String Cheese Incident and O.A.R. both contribute tracks from recent albums. String Cheese's effort, "Outside and Inside," is a funky little ditty that speeds things up early. O.A.R.'s cut, "Hold on True," is slightly more mellow and romantic, but the piece also seems to correlate quite well with general post-Sept. 11 sentiments.\nLesser-known, yet no less talented acts also contribute tracks. Dispatch as well as Slightly Stoopid both churn out powerful and entirely relevant reggae-tinged rockers respectively titled "Passerby" and "Wiseman." The eerily dubbed Domestic Problems contribute the saxophone heavy "James Francis." And Pepper's Ghost contributes the beautiful, piano driven "Sad, Sad Song," which is somewhat reminiscent of Billy Joel's early material.\nThe album culminates with Garrett Dutton's topical and emotionally stirring "On 9.11.01." The song varies greatly from Dutton's work with G. Love and the Special Sauce but is just as good. Where most of his cuts are likely to incite partying this one's more likely to spur tears and contemplation. This is without a doubt the finest track on Bands for America.\nI suggest everyone pick-up this album, not only is it really good, but the proceeds also go directly to the United Way and The September 11th Fund. It's a rare and beautiful thing when quality music and aiding those in need can work hand-in-hand, and as such, Bands for America is a really cool album. \nRating: 7