V2 signed The Rakes have launched their own download store, and in doing so are the first band to take advantage of new global services offered by London based download backend provider 7 Digital. As previously reported, 7 Digital announced at MIDEM earlier this year that they had added new functionality that enables them to accept multiple currencies, and to provide information in multiple languages. The Rakes' global download store utilizes those facilities.
Commenting on the service, 7 Digital boss Ben Drury told CMU (in several languages, though we'll go with the English): "The Rakes site is a great example of a band responding to demand from fans, both in the UK and internationally, enabling them to access their music immediately. Today, all bands need to consider their online presence. Digital sales channels are rapidly changing the way albums and singles are bought and sold, enabling bands to break online and make a massive chart impact, as well as reach a wider international audience. Artists are now reaping the benefits of having their own digital store. 7 Digital is currently powering over 220 successful download stores and I expect this number will increase dramatically over the next 12 months."
Beth Appleton, V2's Head of New Media And Business Development added: "We are really proud that we have enabled The Rakes store to include audio and video content internationally in formats to suit all devices. We recognise that fans want to enjoy and consume music in many different ways and we're proud to be working with 7Digital to provide this choice."
The Rakes download store is at http://www.therakes.co.uk or http://www.7digital.com/rakes.