MANSON CHASES HIS RETAIL

The music and electronics giant is refusing to stock copies of "Holy Wood (In The Valley Of The Shadow Of Death)," released Tuesday (11/14) on nothing/Interscope. Circuit City has deemed the artwork, which depicts a deformed, crucified Manson, as offensive. The retailer has opted to carry alternate cover art, which shows simply a close-up of Manson's face on a cardboard sleeve.

Circuit City spokesperson Jim Babb told MTV News: "People who are fans will be able to get the cover art they want, but we thought this was in the best interests of all of our customers."

Meanwhile, Best Buy will carry the controversial CD, but will use the milder version in its advertising campaigns.

The latest Manson CD will not be sold by Kmart or Wal-Mart. The discount chains refuse to carry any music that has a parental advisory. Shoppers are encouraged to instead buy the new Johnny Cash when purchasing their firearms from those stores.

While Manson's people were not available for comment, the mercurial artist posted his own reply on his official Web site.

Said Manson: "The irony is that my point of the photo on the album was to show people that the crucifixion of Christ is, indeed, a violent image. My jaw is missing as a symbol of this very kind of censorship. This doesn't piss me off as much as it pleases me, because those offended by my album cover have successfully proven my point."