"American Jealousy today announced that effective immediately, all releases would fall under a new pricing structure. CD's will be made available for $5.00 at shows, $6.50 through the online store, and $8.00 at retail."
Click READ MORE to read the label's full statement, and if you'd like to read a review of the label's first release, Waiting For Autumn's "Now I Know Forever," click here.
"We want everyone to be able to afford our albums," said label President Michael Kaminsky. "Head to the store, pick up our stuff for eight bucks. Go to a show, support our bands and get the album for even cheaper."
The move is seen as both a way of rewarding the consumer and combating piracy. "We want our fans to know that they're special to us," says Kaminsky, "and we ask for their support in return. At this price, it's more economical to buy a package that includes the music, artwork, and bonus features than it is to track down each song and download it."
The first new album to be released under this pricing structure is .thedecember drive's handslikegunsandcrashingsounds, which streets in June. It features over 50 minutes of music, a special fold-out full color book, and enhanced extras including Flash presentations, extra art, photos, a making-of video, and an audio commentary. The band will be touring all summer to support the album.
The move comes as American Jealousy launches their new online store, which includes a method for members of the mailing list and street team to earn points that they can use as cash. "We spent a lot of time finding ways to get the fans involved with the music and then ways of helping them out," explains Kaminsky. "We decided the best approach is to make our products affordable, and then reward them with free merchandise." People who sign up for the mailing list or street team will be given opportunities to earn points, such as by attending shows and listening for a password, or by helping distribute fliers before a show. Once proof that a mission has been accomplished, points are added to the user's account in the online store, which can then be used towards CD's and apparel.
"We're nothing without our fans," adds Kaminsky. "We want to do everything in our power to show them that we appreciate their support. Making music more affordable is the first step, and rewarding them for their help is the next. But there's still plenty of work that needs to be done, so you can bet you'll be hearing more from us down the road."
For further information visit www.americanjealousy.com and www.americanjealousy.com/store