The album is not dead; it's just evolving. iTunes LP is one iteration, but it's not the only one. Recently launched Your Digital Record offers artists and labels another branch of album's evolutionary tree with a (currently) free platform that transforms albums from mere digital files into an interactive multimedia bundle.
Now in beta, artists and labels can:
produce interactive digital albums by uploading tracks, liner notes, artwork, pictures, videos and other media in an online "studio."
- share digital albums through embedded code, links and email as a widget
- link users to any digital or physical music store for purchase
- accept donations from fans directly via PayPal connect with fans and receive review.
Several top indie artist like Sharon Jones and the Dap Kings have uploaded content and are using it virally. "iTunes’ work with iTunes LP and "Cocktail" is very similar to our idea," admits the site's Chris Connell, "but we expect that there will need to be a place for all artists to curate their own complete digital albums, not just those that are selected by iTunes or have the money to dish out."
