[Floating Dave]

Thing is that whenever piracy is discussed the same 'RIAA bullying' and 'oppressive record company' arguments come up again and again. And while I think both artists and consumers alike recognise this as having validity, I can't help but think that it's inaccurate (and maybe a little convenient) when considering smaller independent labels and artists.

Call me a dreamer but I'd love to see small, independent labels who take risks and release music that they are passionate about be considered on their own terms. We all know that Underworld have shunned 'major deals' in the past and appear to have created their own label to be free of that old school bullshit. OWB seems to have been the first physical release on this label but I wonder how much a leak like this and the subsequent downloads by all and sundry will impact on future CD releases?

Most people here had already pre-ordered the CD (and prefer CD quality audio to download quality) so hopefully that will count for something but I can't help thinking that this would have been a great opportunity for people here to send a message of support to the band by not giving the leaked version any oxygen.

Like I said.....dreamer.