It seems that 4AD, one of the finest label's known to mankind, has hit onto the idea of using bloggers as a promotional tool. I have received my first e-mail from the label advising of a forthcoming release by a band called The Late Cord.The Late Cord are John Mark Lapham and Micah P. Hinson who hail from Texas. They have a mini - album (extended EP?) coming out later this month and the mp3 is a taster for that release.
The Late Cord - My most meaningful relationships are with dead people
Tags: Music 4AD Late Cord
I can't help but notice you use the phrase, "using bloggers as a promotional tool." How do you feel about labels "using" you for free publicity?
Thats true but I can be selective which labels I feature from the e-mails I receive. Or should blogs not feature anything from labels especially smaller ones who e-mail and ask for thir acts to be mentioned?
There's a long discussion on this topic going on over at One Louder. Most of my thoughts on the matter are contained within the comment thread:
http://www.oneloudernyc.com/2006/03/full-disclosure-whos-being-promoted.html
Interesting article but does that mean all music review sites (not just blogs) who receive material from record companies have lost their independence? I think not otherwise there would be no such sites. I have received material that I do not think has been worthy for publication and it hasn't been. I'm also lucky to be sent material I would have brought and have reviewed that, mainly positively. Is that a lack of independence also?
indie mp3 reviews music I have seen, brought, come across, found or been told about. Yes this does include some promotional mp3/CD's. If they fit within the remit of the site then they get a review. However that is not to say they are all positive as reviews on this site show.
I suppose it's a bit like politics where you think your beliefs or morals have been compromised and how you handle that. Mine havent i'm proud say!