You may think you know Oxford-- but how much do you really know about the city's coolest new music?

Okay, the world loves Radiohead and Supergrass, and millions of others have rocked along to the county's Goldrush and Winnebago Deal. But what about Autochtone, Trieste and Monkey Rope?

Where do you get to soak up the talents of the ultra-talented Piney Gir, or Richard Catalogue? Feel the force of Days of Grace and The Nailbomb Cults? Or catch up on rising stars like The Half Rabbits, and undertheigloo?

Well you could start by picking up a copy of a definitive new guide to the area's hottest new acts. The CD, called appropriately A Catholic Education is a 'broad church' of an album boasting all the new acts mentioned, plus the unmistakable sounds of Trademark, The Lights, Script, The Fever, Nervous Testpilot, Harlette, and This Town Needs Guns.

This inclusive sample of sound features everything new from experimental electro to metal and pop. And it is the brainchild of long-time gig-goer and music lover Russell Barker, from Botley.

The album was officially launched at a bash at the Zodiac last weekend -- and interest has continued to soar.

"I decided to put together the compilation after hearing countless great demos from local bands that were I felt were worthy of a wider audience," says Russell.

"I set up a record label to attempt to promote local acts -- called Freedom Road Records -- with the aim of releasing a series of compilation CDs showcasing talent from Oxford and the surrounding areas.

"It worked out very well," he says, with some relief. "It went a lot better than I thought it would. A nice selection of artists have come forward. They were all keen to involved -- and everyone that has heard what they have done has been very impressed."

As well as focusing much-deserved attention on the bands themselves, Russell hopes the album will throw a spotlight on the great range of music being produced in Oxford and beyond.

"The current music scene in Oxford is very healthy," he explains."There is a wide range of bands that cater for all tastes and a good network of venues, promoters and of course the www.oxfordbands.com website that brings the whole thing together.

"I think this compilation showcases the different styles of music on offer pretty well. There's everything from metal to electro pop and simple acoustic stuff to challenging experimental things."

"And you get 16 tracks for four quid -- which is less than the price of a couple of pints. So even if you only like a couple of tracks it's worthwhile."

He continues: "Hopefully people will see this as a good way to sample the Oxford music scene and will take a chance on the bands as it's at a budget price.

"There are a lot of bands people won't have even heard of ...which makes it a real education!"

The CD is available for £4 from www.freedomrecords.co.uk, www.russellsreviews.co.uk, www.oxfordmusic.net,or for £5 from Polar Bear Records, Avid Records, and HMV.