First, the news that will have Radiohead fans everywhere squealing with joy: The band's first full-length album since 2003 will be released Oct. 10. The news came straight from the mouth — or rather the typing fingers — of guitarist Jonny Greenwood on the band's blog.
Next, the part that will have record industry executives everywhere sobbing with frustration: Radiohead has chosen to forego record labels and release the album themselves, through their Web site, for whatever price you choose to pay.
As of now, you can pre-order the digital download of the album from the Web site. When you add it to your cart, it pops up with a blank field to enter your price (in British pounds); if you click the question mark, the words "It's up to you" pop up. Click the question mark again, and the site insists: "No, really. It's up to you."
The band is also releasing a deluxe version of In Rainbows, which includes the album on vinyl, a CD version with more songs than the download, and booklets with artwork and lyrics. That version costs 40 pounds, or about $82. A regular ol' CD is also in the works, to be released in 2008.
So, what do you make of this crazy move? Which version do you want? And, most of all, how excited are you for more Radiohead?

















City Walk
Cheap Monday
Sebastian
This is absolutely fantastic! Real fans will definitely purchase the big box, and I think their pricing model is going to make people in the industry rethink things. I'll be interested to see what comes of it. Also, new radiohead, yay!!
1I cannot wait, their last album was amazing!
And the price thing is revolutionary.
2The pricing model is revolutionary; it will be interesting to see what happens and if others will follow.
3I think it's a really neat idea. Basically giving the finger to greedy record labels...
The big question is "How much would you pay them for it?"
I think 4 pounds is fair...about the cost of new release at a big store like Best Buy or Amazon.
4Wow, I'm fascinated. Please follow this really closely, Buzz! I can't wait to hear how it plays out!
5I'll gladly pay them what a normal album costs, Radiohead's music is SO worth it.
6I'm excited beyond belief! Radiohead has been my absolute favorite band for over 10 years! I feel giddy about the news, it almost feels like being in love. =)
7I loves me some Radiohead. Woohoo!
8Thats so great! i don't think i'd buy the deluxe edition, but i'll pay a reasonable amount from their website rather than paying itunes for it.
9They are briliiant!
10I would LOVE to buy the deluxe edition... I bet the artwork is killer. I don't know if I'll be able to justify it though when I have so many other expenses! I will DEFINITELY purchase the online version though.
11I pre-ordered this yesterday & it took me ages to decide how much to pay! Because it's Radiohead, I'd pay pretty much whatever. It's such a great idea - maybe it'll shake up the music industry?
12i got my w.a.s.t.e. email and immediately (okay, barring the slooooow inrainbows web connection) bought the box set... greenplastic was guestimating the new album for early next year, so it was a pleasant surprise that it is coming out in 8 days!!!! rh are planning on releasing the cd in stores next year, but hello downloading goodness and b-sides to boot
13I LOVE Radiohead! I will most definitely spend the money!
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