Google Music launched in beta four months ago as a rather unexciting music locker service. And with the launch of Facebook Music next week and iTunes Match in October, it seemed destined to stay a second-tier offering.  But various rumblings we've heard suggest that Google Head of Music Programming Tim Quirk is ramping up a number of efforts to keep that from happening. First up is new music discover site Magnifier.

The goal according to Quick is "to help users fall in love with their music again by removing the hassles of digital music management." He's taking that idea a step further with the launch of Magnifier, Music Beta's new music discovery site.

Every day, Google "music experts" will highlight new, free music on Magnifier by both established and brand new artists.  Users can sideload any or all of the songs to their Google Music Beta library. While tracks get an editorial preview, lacking is the ability to listen before loading into your library.

Magnifier also already includes a library of tracks from established artists ranging from Johnny Legend to Santana and Lia Down is among the newer acts featured. "Sometimes it will be new artists we think deserve more attention," said Quick. "And sometimes there will be video interviews and live performances.