Surprise! The runup to the 2012 Houston Press Music Awards starts right now. You didn't think we'd forget about our own HPMAs just because Free Press Summer Fest is this weekend, did you?

Of course not. Nominations are now open -- like, right now -- in almost 40 categories in just about any kind of locally made sounds that have tone and rhythm. We have tweaked a few, subbing Best Modern Rock for Indie/Alternative (what are words for, as Missing Persons once sang), and grouping hardcore with punk and garage instead of experimental and noise.

It seemed to make more sense that way. Others, well, it's just time to move on, so fare thee well, Best Scenester and Best Radio Personality.

The Houston Press Music Awards showcase will be the weekend of August 4-5, at a location TBD. Yes, back in the middle of summer. Despite the broiler oven that is Houston in August, it's still easier to schedule the HPMAs then than around the holidays.

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But no matter. It will be a fun day. Remember, wherever it's going to be, it's mostly indoors. And the best musicians in Houston will be playing -- how could you go wrong with that?

The nominations run through Thursday, June 14. Speak up for your favorites on our poll page. Here are the 2012 categories:

BEST LP/CD/EP

BEST INSTRUMENT/EQUIPMENT STORE

Good luck to all the potential nominees. We're looking forward to seeing who wins.