EVERCLEAR plan early 2001 tour. The "Santa Monica" band is gearing up to hit the road this February, says MTV. EVERCLEAR will tour the United States for six weeks, in support of their latest two releases Songs From an American Movie, Vol. One: Learning How to Smile and Songs From an American Movie Vol. Two: Good Time for a Bad Attitude.

XMAS gifts from PEARL JAM and R.E.M. Sonicnet reports that fan-club members for both R.E.M. and PEARL JAM will have their stockings stuffed with rare musical treats. R.E.M. is sending out a colored vinyl 7-inch with three songs: a cover of the BEATLES' "Christmas Time (Is Here Again)" and two original instrumentals, "Take Seven" and "Hastings and Main." PEARL JAM is sending out a CD that includes a version of MOTHER LOVE BONE's "Crown of Thorns" and a cover of ELVIS PRESLEY's "Can't Help Falling in Love."

10,000 MANIACS' Rob Buck passes away. At the age of 42, Rob Buck died of liver failure on Tuesday, according to CDNOW's Allstar. He was the founding member and lead guitarist of 10,000 MANIACS, and he co-wrote many of the band's songs including "These Are Days" and "What's the Matter Here?"

Compiled by Glennie Rabin
News Editor