I bought a new car in January that came with six months of free satellite radio. I thought that I'd listen for six months and then let it go. But man, I'm hooked!

Radio in Toronto sucks giant hippo balls. I never listen to it except for traffic reports and the occasional Kim Mitchell show, and a few other specific shows. For the most part my iPod keeps me company while I'm driving.

But this Sirius radio thing is great! I've been introduced to new bands and styles of music that I would have never had access to before. My favourite station has, surprisingly, turned out to be a Jam station. The Alt Nation station is actually Alternative, unlike the so-called alternative station in Toronto which is about as main-stream as it gets (not surprising since its owned by Corus).

So, since my trial period ends in a few weeks I actually gave in and paid for a year's subscription. Six months ago I thought that I would never do this, but it's so nice to have good music and real choices. And, frankly, I don't mind paying as long as it stays commercial free.