Today I paid $17.98 plus tax for a retail copy of a new release by one of my favorite bands.

First, I found a knife to slice through the cellophane wrapper. Then I removed the pretentious and completely forgettable paperboard sleeve. Took the sleeve and cellophane to the recycling/trash.

Popped the disk into the computer and began to pry the liner notes out of the jewel case. I needed to use the knife to do that too. Meanwhile the music starts playing.

Sounds nice, I’m thinking, it’s been awhile since I’ve heard new material from these guys… cool… then the audio stops. A second later it starts again.

The computer drive is spinning like mad. The audio resumes. About 14 seconds later it stops again.

This pattern continues until I give up. The disk won’t play in my computer.

Next I try using an open source tool to convert the tracks to MP3′s so I can listen later at the gym. The disk won’t allow the software to do it’s job. I’ve apparently run into a digital rights management (DRM) snag.

I just paid $20 to support one of my favorite bands. Warner owns their label. Unfortunately Warner’s DRM scheme has spoiled my excitement about the band.

Instead I’ll probably let the critics form my opinion about this new release. I read somewhere that the CD was uninspired, commercial. I had planned on forming my own opinion. I guess Warner prevented me from doing so.

All I know is that my experience with the product was pretty bad. The product is one of the new ones out on a Warner label. I recommend you don’t buy it.

Anyhow, why bother with the $20 hassle? The other CD I bought from Kill Rock Stars sounds great. It cost less, had two CD’s of great sounding, very inspired music, in a beautiful package with thoughtful and enjoyable liner notes. Back to work.

[tags]drm, Warner, Kill Rock Stars[/tags]