NIN releases new material in variety of formats

Trent Reznor's new release options for the "Ghosts" collection are interesting in that they've got several layers, from the free sampler of the first disc all the way up to a $300 limited edition pack that contains 180-gram vinyl, blu-ray, books, a multimedia presentation, prints suitable for framing, a certificate of authenticity from the Franklin Mint, and free turn-down service the next time you stay at his house, I guess.  I like that there are a variety of options for this release, and that it's a project released under the artist's control.  I even noticed there was a Creative Commons non-commercial license attached to the collection, meaning that I'm sure we'll see thousands of remixes posted on his site and elsewhere.  It looks like a further refinement of the "pay what you want" model, where you can still get material for free, but there are several upsells built into it.  Honestly, it looks like a public radio pledge drive format - you can listen for free, but for $20 more you'll get the coffee mug and a tote bag.

The only challenge I see here is that we're talking about 4 discs of instrumental music.  That could present a challenge to even the most dedicated fan, and it's certainly not going to attract any casual listeners.