[Any resources for a music newbie?]

I don't know if you already got started with something else since I'm a little late, and I can't say anything for the free programs, but I have the Acoustica Musician's Bundle. It comes with Mixcraft and Beatcraft and it's pretty awesome if you are willing to put the time into it to take advantage of all optimization. I picked it up on Amazon for 69 with an Amazon online coupon deal.

Just my experience. I would add, don't expect things to be easy right away, but definitely some great music theory advice given. Good luck!

[Drum production video tutorial (big beat/dubstep etc)]

Very helpful indeed! I've been playing Wii Rockband and am trying to get into drumming a little bit I'm still on Easy mode but im thinking about buying one of those electronic drum sets where I can use headphones so I don't wake up my parents! Thanks for the tutorials.

[OCRA-0030 - BadAss: Boss Themes]

Very awesome! I'm new to this. I liked the whole track by track review thing as a little preview for what I was getting myself into. Cool work!