The MusicFile, an Internet based music Webzine, has announced its’ Ten Most Anticipated Albums of 2007. The site compiled the list based on an examination of hundreds of music blogs and relevant music and fan sites, as well as anticipated release dates. The list is dominated by independent bands, eight of which are signed to small or mid-size labels.
The Shins, a band from Portland Oregon on the Sub-Pop label, reached number one on iTunes last week, based on pre-orders of its third studio album, out January 23rd. Montreal’s Arcade Fire, (Merge Records) who are wrapping up their sophomore effort, sold out 5 shows in Greenwich Village in 10 minutes. Other artists making the list include a new project from producer Danger Mouse and Gorillaz front man Damon Albarn, Brooklyn’s Clap Your Hands Say Yeah, southern rockers Kings of Leon and violin virtuoso Andrew Bird, among others.
“The buzz is very high with these artists, many who grew their following by word of mouth over the internet and through the strength of their live performances, not through the traditional means of radio play and big label support,” said Kayne Lanahan, The MusicFile's founder.
While current album sales for the overall music industry were down in 2006 by 6 1/2%, digital sales were up by 94%. But the share of digital albums sales for almost all of the major labels fell last year while smaller labels' share grew substantially. Driving the change is the depth of offerings on Internet music stores like iTunes, CD Baby and emusic and the proliferation of internet and satellite radio choices.
"It's a very eclectic list and that is what is so exciting about the music industry today; the true talent is rising to the top, regardless of genre, label or distribution. We are starting to see something resembling a democracy in the music business," said Tom Brady, co-founder of the site.
The MusicFile will monitor these ten artists over the course of the year with regular updates. The site currently has Mp3’s from songs off of the new albums where available and will add touring schedules as they are announced. Fans can add their own “most anticipated album” via the site’s blog.
About:
The MusicFile is a New York based LLC. Founded in 2006, the music website is dedicated to helping people discover music they might not be exposed to through traditional channels. Taking a passionate and personal point of view; the site profiles bands, provides an internet based radio station for listening and a storefront with one-click links to recommended offerings on iTunes. With a focus on eclectic music that covers many genres, The MusicFile further serves it's customer base with custom downloadable mixes, interviews with rising artists, profiles of small music venues and a rotating list of worthy songs that were overlooked by radio.
