Rival Schools, a band formed out of the ashes of NYC bands like Quicksand, just released United by Fate, their debut CD. If you liked Quicksand, you’ll love this record. It is quickly becoming my favorite CD released this year. Like so many times in my life, I had a chance to see them a couple of weeks ago, but hadn’t heard them yet, and so didn’t know if I should go or not. I went to a dinner party and out afterwards instead. I am regretting not going to see them after the dinner party now.