I could start this post with a load of stuff about filesharing and album leaks, but you’ve read it all before. The fact is, the internet gets a hard time in the media. The music industry doesn’t like the fact that they don’t have much control over what happens with their music (ditto the film industry) and they’re so unhappy that Lord Mandelson has been drafted in to try and pass laws that will allow the suspension of suspected filesharer’s internet connections. Right or wrong (and if you feel it’s wrong, why not sign this petition), the internet has made a major impact on the music industry.

We like to look at the positives here at Beatnik. The internet has opened up a world of opportunity for aspiring musicians (and established ones too) to get their music out and heard without major label backing.

Self-promotion and even distribution are all possible with a computer, time and perseverence. The social networking phenomenon Twitter means artists can make connections with tastemakers and industry folks without having to try and get past agents, and sites like bandcamp.com make digital distribution and the collection of payment for music very straightforward. A lot of the music we play on Beatnik now is first heard of when the artist announces it on Twitter. Some of it is even bought direct.

Here are 4 folks whose music you can buy direct from the artist, all with the Beatnik seal of approval! It’ll make you feel good to drop dosh directly in their pocket!

1. Fulgeance – Smartbanging EP
   Available in Physical & Digital at http://fulgeance.bandcamp.com/
   Superb wobbly beat constructions from a French dude. I particularly dig Sour Socca, straight banger!
2. DJ IQ – Flashing Lights
   Available in Physical & Digital at http://djiq.co.uk/
   UK Beats Mix Tape from DMC champion DJ IQ. All dubplates, comlpetely essential.
3. Kidkanevil – Megajoy
   Available in Digital at  http://kidkanevil.bandcamp.com/
   I’ve been banging on about this tune to everyone, it sounds incredible when it drops in the club and it’s got that retro 80s video game bleep sound down. Awesome music.
4. Paul White – Sounds From The Skylight
   Available in Physical & Digital at http://paulwhite.bandcamp.com/
   It was when I bought this album from Paul White that I was first introduced to bandcamp. An intriguing, tapestry of heavy beats and weird samples… like having a walk inside someones head, and who wouldn’t want to do that!