Banging Out Your Buck

Were you aware that the record labels are keeping tabs on you? According to this snide article on RollingStone.Com, though prices aren't coming down, labels are trying to give consumers more for their buck. In September, retailers gathered at the National Association of Recording Merchandisers convention to suggest new selling strategies. "We told [labels], 'Include a DVD that shows the band backstage and on the tour bus talking about nothing,'" says Don Van Cleave, president of the Coalition of Independent Music Stores. "Consumers love that stuff." We do? I guess we do. Most of the majors are doing just that. New albums by the Foo Fighters and Tori Amos will come with limited edition DVDs. Another tactic will be the reintroduction of singles and other short-form releases. Adema's next disc, due out October 22nd, is a seven-song EP that will sell for $8.98. Is this really more bang for your buck?