Beggars Archive

New higher quality download partner

We’ve partnered with HDtracks to offer CD quality, uncompressed downloads of the Beggars Group catalogues (which also includes Beggars Banquet, Mantra and Nation). The range of titles is currently a little limited, with no deep catalogue, but it’s an ongoing process. As more albums become economically impractical to keep in print on CD, this kind of a service is a way forward, especially as they are also interested in offering genuine HD with 96khz/24bit recordings. This is actually ‘Stunning Hi Res Sound’ but confusingly that’s not what’s on offer here. There again, the music industry has exhibited a genius at creating discombobulation amongst the public when selling sound formats, so no real surprise. I think what they are trying to say is that your Hi Res mp3’s are nowhere near as good as your Hi Res CD’s. Confused? – I warned you.

But I’ll let them gush for themselves – here’s the press release…

HDtracks welcomes 4AD, Matador, Rough Trade and XL Recordings in stunning HI RES SOUND!

HDtracks, the world’s premiere high-resolution digital music download store, is pleased to announce the addition of some the greatest, cutting-edge indie rock labels in the world to our catalog through a deal with the Beggars group of labels.  Now fans can hear their favorite rock bands in CD-quality 44.1 kHz/16-bit downloads with full liner notes and cover art.

Beggars was founded in 1977 by Martin Mills, owner of the Beggars Banquet record shops.  It is made up of the premiere indie rock labels 4AD, Matador, Rough Trade, and XL Recordings.  These labels feature artists such as Lou Reed, Thom Yorke, Ratatat, Yo La Tengo, The National, Cocteau Twins, The Pixies, Cat Power, Belle and Sebastian, Jarvis Cocker, Pavement, The Libertines, Vampire Weekend, Sonic Youth and many more.

All four of the labels are dedicated to bringing the newest and freshest cutting-edge bands to the fore.  And now, they are proud to join forces with HDtracks and its superior downloading technology, allowing fans to hear all of the energy, timbre, pulse and vocal nuance of this exciting music.  You need to hear Beggars’ recordings in Hi-Res to hear what you have been missing!

About HDtracks

Founded by multi Grammy-nominated jazz and classical composer and inventor of new sound technology David Chesky, and his brother, Norman, also founders of the world renowned audiophile label Chesky Records, HDtracks raises the bar for digital download sound quality and enjoyment.  Developed by musicians for musicians, HDtracks provides a superior listening experience in purity, tone, and expression, presenting uncompressed, CD and DVD audio quality, crystal-clear recordings of each world-class musician, vocalist, and ensemble.  HDtracks presents artists in the best possible light, allowing listeners to experience the true depth of their talent and individuality.  David says, “The tone is what moves us.  It is the poetry of the music.  It is what gives artists their own identities.”

HDtracks deepens the listeners’ experience beyond the music by also providing complete liner notes with every download.  As David Chesky says, “Listening to an album without liner notes is like going to a concert without a program. The writers add to and enrich the musical experience.”

Go take a look for yourself

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