Next week, AthFest will return to the Classic City featuring over 100 of the best local bands that Athens has to offer.  

But fans don’t have to wait until the four-day event to hear the unique sounds AthFest will serve up at this year’s concerts.

Since 1998, AthFest has teamed up with Ghostmeat Records to create a compilation CD to highlight local bands and promote the annual festival.

The “AthFest 2005” compilation incorporates a diverse assortment of sounds from the Athens music scene. With everything from a taste of indie rock to country twang, this album holds something for every music guru and is sure not to disappoint.

Casper & the Cookies makes an appearance on the album with its new song “Learn How to Disappear.”

This is a different yet refreshing sound from the band’s latest album “Oh!,” which takes chances with several sounds including 1950s ballads and whimsical pop, closely resembling The Thrills.

Another band on the album, An Epic at Best, combines attractive vocals and a fresh indie pop sound with its song “Birds.”

Outstandingly different from the other bands on the album, Coulier ditches vocals for a busy, raw instrumental sound with two guitars and drums making unorganized noise.

Local favorite pop rockers Modern Skirts includes its song “My Bully” on the album. Most addicting throughout the song are the vocal collaborations focusing on three-part harmonies.

Although the album is already available at www.athfest.com, a CD release party will be held at The 40 Watt Club next Thursday, June 23 at 11 p.m. The release party will include performances from three bands on the compilation — Love Tractor, Count and Coulier.