Oasis won't be 'pulling a Radiohead' with new album

Although the band has only recently started working on a new album, Oasis front man Liam Gallagher told Billboard yesterday the band would not follow in Radiohead's footsteps and release its new work to fans for any price. According to the singer, it would be over his "dead body" before the band took a similar tactic, especially considering how "hard he works." That sentiment did not prevent the band from releasing a download-only single last month, which peaked at #10 in the UK Singles Chart.

Like Radiohead though, Oasis is without a record contract, having fulfilled obligations to Sony BMG with the release of 2005's Don't Believe the Truth. According to the same news report, the band is following a similar structure and schedule recording the new album, working with the same producer, Dave Sardy and enjoying contributions from all band members. Prior to Don't Believe the Truth, lead guitarist Noel Gallagher, Liam's older brother, was the primary songwriter and contributor. The new album, as yet untitled, is expected for release late next summer.

As with Radiohead, Oasis will enjoy a similar freedom with this release when it is ready next year. The band may not take the same route releasing it or giving fans more access, but expect the members to sign with a label that allows them to retain control over their work. The downside, of course, is that the situation both bands are in is truly only accessible to bands as famous and as popular as they are. With the changes they promote though, hopefully that tendency will drop off as the music industry is checked and questioned.