I’m passionate about digital music – this should be clear by the software I’ve spent the last several years creating. Perhaps less obvious is that I’m passionate about environmental issues – my academic background happens to be in sustainability and environmental policy. So, when Sarah Harmer released the single “Escarpment Blues” on iTunes, I was intrigued. Having recently had an environmental revelation, she is donating all her proceeds from this release towards a campaign to block the development of a mine site within the ecologically unique Niagara escarpment (alas, I’m sure that Apple corporate won’t be donating their cut, which is a shame, albeit an expected one). It’s old-fashioned musical-activism fused with 21st century digital distribution. It’s microdonations. I think that’s awesome, and I wanted to draw attention to it.
I had intended to link to this for some time, but it was Sarah’s appearance at the recent Vancouver Folk Festival that prompted me to post this. It’s a great cause, it’s a great use of the technology, and it’s a great song from one of Canada’s foremost talents. I guess my point is clear – you should buy it! (provided you’re using the Canadian iTunes store, that is)
Not available at the US iTMS, apparently. :(