The Unknown: Editors – The Front Wall

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For years, records companies have spanked loyal fans by releasing deluxe or extended editions of releases. Most recently, this happened with Lady Gaga and Eminem.  For all those honest fans who go out and buy the album the day/week it comes out, they are stuck in a quandry when bands “re-issues” the same album a few months later with a couple more bonus tracks.  Now, you’re either cursed to go out and buy the new version of the album for a couple more songs that are in all liklihood not as good as the other tracks since they were left off the original release…or you illegally go and download them.  I understand the record company’s tactic in trying to lure new fans to an aging release by giving them a bonus…but the problem with this…is that it only targets the fringe fans.  You may get a minor boost from new buyers…and a couple of hardcore fans will re-purchase it.  But in the end, you’re disenfranchising the only people who are still buying music.  This is your base.  Don’t piss off your base!  We’re the last people buying your music…don’t force us into downloading.  Isn’t this what you’re trying to avoid? 
 
Here’s an idea…let’s call if a compromise.  I will support your re-issues…but in return…offer the loyal fans a way to get the new songs without having to re-buy the whole album…maybe a bonus EP…or something along those lines.  Sounds fair?  I think so.
 
In the Editors defense, they added a whopping 5 songs…and the price is still reasonably cheap.
 
Here is Editors – The Front Wall:
 
3.  Colours
4.  Release