I think I like what Radiohead has started here. It seems like we may be in the midst of a musical revolution of sorts--music spread freely (and legally) to the masses, and to the consent of the artist.
Nine Inch Nails' front-man (and life and soul of the band) Trent Reznor has released, only a few hours ago, his newest album, Ghosts I-IV. It's available for download online, and there are also a few options for purchase, including a free download that includes nine of the whopping 36 tracks. Because I have had no time actually listen to the album in its entirety, any thoughts I could give would most definitely be lacking. So, I'll just do a little copy and paste action from the official NIN site:
"Nine Inch Nails presents Ghosts I - IV, a brand new 36 track instrumental collection available right now. Almost two hours of new music composed and recorded over an intense ten week period last fall, Ghosts I - IV sprawls Nine Inch Nails across a variety of new terrain.
Trent Reznor explains, 'I've been considering and wanting to make this kind of record for years, but by its very nature it wouldn't have made sense until this point. This collection of music is the result of working from a very visual perspective - dressing imagined locations and scenarios with sound and texture; a soundtrack for daydreams. I'm very pleased with the result and the ability to present it directly to you without interference. I hope you enjoy the first four volumes of Ghosts.'"
I am listening to it for the first time right now, and let me say, it's quite good.
2 comments:
I'm torn over this new development in the music industry. On one hand, I'm lamenting the death of the album. On the other hand, this could open opportunities for albums. There are interactive possibilities where the listener could sequence the album, liner notes could be ever-evolving, and the artwork could even have some variances.
I agree on the tangibility aspect. I remember when I first got my iPod and thought that I would always go out and buy an actual physical copy of an album as opposed to a digital copy. But, eventually I've gotten over it. I don't even own a physical copy of In Rainbows and they're my favorite band.
However, I think it raises the question, is it sad that we are losing that desire to own the albums physically, or are we just coming around on new ways of distribution?
I guess what's great about it is there is still choice. In terms of In Rainbows, it still got released physically so you could choose between the two mediums, or even get both. I am not sure if NIN will be doing this, though.
Post a Comment