Originally posted by Giant Lemon:
Weird- with the exception of Zooropa, all the albums were released in February/March or October/November. I wonder if there's a reason, or if it's just a coincidence.
I don't think it is a coincidence, especially from War on. The first few months of every year are always quite slow (as the holiday season just ended). So, record sales are also quite low during Jan-Feb (look at the sales at this moment, they're about 50-75% lower than during Nov-Dec). From March on, record sales usually rise again (a bit). So many 'big' albums get released from March on.
I already stated it, the end of the year is the holiday season, which means big record sales. So many 'big' albums will be released in the last few months (Oct-Nov) of the year to cash in on the high sales.
Finally, the summer is another slow season. Many are on holidays, it's hot and not many minds are set on discovering new music. So that's why not many 'big' albums are released in the summer.
Basically, the months to release an album by a high-profile act are March-May/June and end of Sep-Nov.
On the other hand, debuts and albums by small artists are often released in the beginning of the year. This also has to do with the music reviews. When a critic likes an album (s)he can say: "This is the best album of the year (so far)!" This is of course a nice quote to use for promotion, even though it was said about an album released in January.
Hope this helps.
Marty
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People criticize me but I know it's not the end
I try to kick the truth, not just to make friends
Spearhead - People In Tha Middle
