Music geeks and trendy vinyl hipsters everywhere rejoice! iTunes has done it again! (kind of)
This week, apple released the new iTunes LP album format, which aims to re-create the intimacy of a vinyl record by utilizing interactive liner notes, track listings, and bonus videos.
It seems that many people have a negative connotation with the new release, (the author mentioned this, as well as the comments by other hypebot users) which I just don't get.
Yes, the new LP format is pricier than the other downloads available through iTunes, yes the "LP" graphics/liner notes graphics aren't too spectacular, (watch the video tour of Dave Matthews LP) and yes the LP format only plays on iTunes 9 and is not compatible with other media players. These are all legitimate concerns...
I think that what most of the nay-sayers aren't seeing in this is the possibilities. I think that the new LP idea is great! In time the graphics and features will improve (like they do with any new technology,) the iTunes 9 issue is a concern, but i wouldn't be suprised if apple changes that somehow, especially if sales lag. And as for the higher price think about this: despite the economic downturn vinyl records sales and popularity are still very high. Plus the added features, artist designed LPs, and bonus videos included in some of the LPs! I don't see many music geeks passing up on this new digital music opportunity.
-Eric Hart
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Eric, or anybody, how do you think this will affect how albums are marketed on iTunes? - Kegan
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