Widespread Panic releases single for free download

When things are marked as “free” they are usually the tattered and musky personal items of some unknown third party. But lately there has been a trend within the music industry for artists to give their music away for gratis or at least next to nothing. Perhaps we could call it “Radiohead Marketing.” Whatever it is, the jam band Widespread Panic seems to be one of the many jumping on the online bandwagon.

Widespread Panic won’t be releasing its entire new studio album online, but the group is at least going to be giving away a taste of what’s to come. On Monday (Oct. 15) Widespread Panic made their first single off of their latest studio recording “Up All Night” available pro bono online. With the album not scheduled to come out until spring of 2008, this track helps give fans a sneak peek of the new record.

Still, chances are that the Georgia band will be testing out its newest songs on the road. The group's tour has not wrapped up yet, so there’s still time to check out the latest material. Otherwise, you might have to weather a whole winter Widespread Panic-free.

Got news tips for Paste? Email news@pastemagazine.com.