Digital format without conventional incrementation, simulating the traditional analog method of “sides,” where you have about 15-20 minutes of songs in a particular sequence. For my album, the only incrementation is at the beginning of “song 1” and “song 7,” and the end of “song 6” and “song 12.” And, that’s it. If you were to buy this album, the only way to buy it is to buy “Side 1” or “Side 2,” or both sides.

It is time for the artist to take some control back in how the consumer buys and listens to their work. There is meaning in sequence: order of a list of songs. All live performances are journeys, as are albums (mini-journeys): therefore, songs are micro-journeys. Depending on the situation, the place within which a song/track was placed has purpose & function.

I suggest this format for the initial release of an “album” or “collection of songs.” Then, after a “bit of time,” (maybe six months) release all of the songs as individual items to be bought.

This format is created at the mastering stage, with the “skip function” as needed. ISRC’s (International Standard Recording Codes) are still
embedded in each of the tracks, and there are ISRC codes for each side. Therefore, it is “unnecessary” to increment tracks. Albums, collections in sequence add to the appreciation of specific tracks. It is about context. A song is given its place, its place within the entire order. Just like life itself, there is meaning in sequence.