Summer used to be a vast wasteland for TV. It still is, to some degree. But the basic cable channels have been airing their shows during the summer to build an audience that wouldn't be there when the networks begin their fall schedules. The networks have also put some summer programming on, rather than repeats. Of course, it's complete shit reality shows based on karaoke and dancing, but it is new.

Anyway, things you should be checking out:

- Flight of the Conchords (HBO) - very quirky. Also, very brilliant.

- Mad Men (AMC) - this is based on recommendation. I'll be watching one of them tonight [*editor's note: I watched two episodes this evening and it's outstanding. It's a really interesting portrait of advertising's good old days]

- Monk (USA) - this show keeps getting better and better.

Labels: TV