American rockers Incubus went to the LA courts last Thursday in a bid to get out of their contract with Sony label Epic Records – the band claiming they have fulfilled all their obligations to the label even though they have only recorded three of the seven albums included in the original contract signed seven years ago. The band’s management are relying on an LA law which says entertainment companies can only hold artists to a seven year exclusivity deal.
"This isn't Courtney Love or some other artists where we're walking away from a deal," the band's manager Steve Rennie told reporters. "We are seeking the right to be free agents because we believe we've met our obligations, and there's nothing to say that we won't turn around and re-sign with Sony. They're the #1 candidate for the next seven years."
Sony are yet to comment on Incubus' interpretation of their obligations to the label. All they would say is: "We have the highest regard for Incubus and their music and take great pride in the work we have done together to build a worldwide audience for them. Incubus are signed to an exclusive recording contract with Sony Music."