News Roundup: Feb. 19

Rather than creating update spam and linking to 15+ stories separately, here for your reading pleasure (or displeasure) are some highlights of what's been goin' on in the music world lately (specifically during my recent absence from the site):

- Chris Cornell leaves Audioslave, readies solo album, covers MJ's 'Billie Jean,' and doesn't rule out some form of Soundgarden reunion.

- Arctic Monkeys and The Killers clean up at the Brit Awards, Muse and The Fratellis also take home new hardware.

- Counting Crows' new album expected by the end of the year, frontman Adam Duritz becomes the latest in a long line of performers to launch his own record label.

- Rufus Wainwright to "Release the Stars" in May, also recreates Judy Garland concerts.

- EMI mulls dropping DRM and embracing MP3, industry abuzz with changing standards talk.

- Dream Theater ink with Roadrunner, ready next disc, stay true to epic (read: 25 minute song) form.

- The Smashing Pumpkins reveal "Zeitgeist," along with an usual Saturday, July 7 release date (unconfirmed by the label).

- OZZfest offers free tickets to 2007 outing, Ozzy will play material from forthcoming studio album.

- Arctic Monkeys want to share their "Favourite Worst Nightmare" on April 23 (one day later in the U.S.), first single "Brainstorm" to make waves on April 16.

- Apple, Inc. and Apple Corps Ltd. settle trademark dispute, The Beatles in digital is hopefully to follow very soon.