As off-season as it is, it won't be long before sleigh bells are ringing once again. Although a Christmas tradition, the 12 Bands of Christmas project actually starts cranking up in late spring and early summer.

That's when acts are chosen, tracks recorded and the groundwork laid for an event that has become an Augusta favorite.

Last year, the ante was raised by the inclusion of several regional and national acts, each paired with an Augusta act. Although it resulted in a compelling 12 Bands compilation, it makes following up the success of 2007 a challenge.

Still, there are opportunities out there. Augusta is rich in music, much of it untapped by the 12 Bands team. I'd like to offer my own, completely unsolicited, ideas:

REGINA LEE: This Augusta resident once recorded under the name Regina and had some dance chart success in the mid 1980s. What many don't realize is that before she fired up the synth, she was active in the New York underground, rubbing shoulders with the likes of Television and the Ramones and producing demos with Blondie producer Richard Gottehrer. I'd love to see her onstage, and 12 Bands seems like a perfect fit.

JESSE COLIN YOUNG: I'm not sure whether he's still in town, but I know that a couple of years ago the former Youngblood moved from Hawaii to make the Garden City his home. The only time I recall his performing locally was a charity gig in Aiken a year or two before he relocated. The Christmas season seems like a good time to celebrate the rock legend in our midst.

THE SOUL GENERALS: For the first few year of 12 Bands, James Brown remained at the top of the wish list. Far and away the most popular and successful act to ever call Augusta home, the Godfather would have given real magic to the annual CD and show.

Unfortunately, those dreams were dashed when Mr. Brown died in late 2006. Still, most of the members of his crackerjack band are around and playing from time to time. We can't get the Godfather, but we can borrow his funky soul sound.

DEAD CONFEDERATE: Back when it was still known as Redbelly, this band played 12 Bands. Today, with a new name and new sound, it is enjoying incredible success. Among the accolades are opening for R.E.M. at South by Southwest, adoption as an editorial fave by Spin magazine and the opportunity to record with Spoon producer Mike McCarthy.