Though my lack of badge something of badge of honor at this point. I can always say that one's ability to secure a CMJ pass is inversely proportioned to his or her taste in music (which is only slightly inaccurate). Also, most the "must-see" CMJ events are awful experiences, overstuffed with the desperate to impress and the generally clueless, who will suck the fun out of the room and make you second guess how much you really liked the musical act you are witnessing in the first place.
I can pretty guarantee that the below podcast will be a more rewarding experience than nearly every NYC area show the week of CMJ.
There are, however, exceptions.
Download the latest The Unblinking Ear Podcast