A company in Holland has launched a new website called SellaBand which aims to help unsigned bands reach their fans and raise funds to enable them to record and release a debut mini-album.
The basic core of the site is similar to other online services supporting unsigned talent - bands can upload tracks, pictures and copy to the SellaBand server and direct their fans to their SellaBand page.
The difference is that fans will be encouraged to support the band by making a $10 donation-come investment. If and when 5000 fans have done so the $50,000 raised will be used to allow the band to record a six track limited edition album, copies of which will be sent to every supporter.
Songs recorded for the album will also be available as free downloads via the band's page on the Sellaband site. While no revenue will be earned from the downloads themselves, advertising will be sold on the site, revenues from which will be split three ways between the band, Sellaband and the fans who supported the recording of the tracks.
Record producer Chris Kimsey, who is involved in the new venture, told reporters: "Music for the people, chosen by the people, supported by the people not some marketing plan to sell us music that we do not want. SellaBand puts value back into the sound of music".