Sometimes when I open an album from the list by an artist I don't know yet, it won't be out. It is set as a pre-release, and all the tracks are grayed out. Sometimes one or two will be listenable.

The intended effect of a pre-release is supposed to build tension and anticipation. It is supposed to get me excited for that magic day when the album is out. I worry that it is having the opposite effect on me, and maybe others.

Instead of anticipation, I am having more of an exasperation or disgruntled vibe happening. That vibe when you have a friend who always makes you a little late because they take too long getting ready.

I never know if it is just me or are others feeling it too. But I am noticing the pre-releasers are getting sorted into a different category in my mind. It's not fair because it is probably a label doing this to time things like press, distribution, etc.

" is annoying cause I need to do extra work" <--- This is happening.

" is annoying cause I need to do  <--- This is not happening.

As a musician, and someone who also helps out an indie label, it is on my mind every time it happens. The pre-release affect isn't happening with me and I worry about it because I love music and bands.

"Yes! The release is finally here! I can click the button and hear the sounds." <--- This is not happening.

"Fine, I'll put you in the text file with all the others that made me do data-entry just so I will hopefully remember to get around to in three months" <--- This is happening.

Your band is now on "the wait list" which is not fair but you made me put it on the list. Fun to ruminate on this. I bet if you ask me in a couple months, I will have a completely different opinion which is the fun of it all.