Independent digital aggregators The Orchard have announced they have reached a new licensing agreement with London based social music network Last.fm which will provide community access to the aggregator's huge catalogue of independent music.
Confirming the deal, The Orchard chief Greg Scholl told CMU: "Last.fm is a force in music discovery, which is good for independent music - the engine that fuels new talent in the industry - and therefore, good for The Orchard. It is with pleasure that we add our catalogue to their landmark service. To fans of The Hold Steady, Dion, Explosions in the Sky, Ice T, Dr. Dog, Black Flag, and Ennio Morricone, we say, 'scrobble away'".
Last.fm CCO Martin Stiksel added: "The deal with The Orchard shows Last.fm's ongoing commitment to independent and grassroots music of all genres and origins. It's an ideal partnership, as Last.fm is in a unique position to bring specialist music to the fore that otherwise might not find its full audience. This is a major step towards offering our users access to the full spectrum of music".