Bands choose MySpace to showcase new albums

As part of the move, MySpace users can hear the bands' new albums first on the social-networking website, which offers artists their own pages to communicate directly with fans and showcase exclusive material.

Basement Jaxx's new album 'Crazy Itch Radio', The Roots with 'Game Theory', and 'A Hundred Miles Off' by The Walkmen will be aired on their MySpace pages from today until the day of official release.

In addition, users will be given a sneak preview of The Fratellis EP 'Definitely Maybe, What's The Story Morning Glory, Northern Soul' and Kasabian's 'Empire' single.

Jamie Kantrowitz, senior vice-president of marketing and content at MySpace, said: "There are literally millions of artists out there using MySpace to directly connect with their audiences, with more joining all the time.

"That established artists are using the site shows just how useful it can be to bands who want to reach out to listeners."

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