I'm actually glad for the band's sake it hasn't leaked up until now. I don't think it's a coincidence that it's going to be streaming right around the time CDs are being distributed, from which a leak will inevitably be produced. Gotta hand it to Atlantic/STP's management; they've done a great job handling the release of this album so far, much better than SLDD. I hope it all shows in the sales. I know I'll be running up to Target to get my hard copy on the 25th, leak or not.
It could actually be the fact that the people who have it don't want to leak it due to the consequences - example, Kevin Cogill who leaked some songs from GNR's latest album, 'Chinese Democracy'. He pleaded guilty but at the moment I can't think of what happened to him, nor could I find it right now.
http://articles.latimes.com/2008/aug/29 ... fi-music29Probably has nothing to do with it, but maybe some people learned from this mistake on his part. Being the first to post it is always risky, no matter where it is.
It is a good thing though that the album hasn't leaked, as it can only drive the sales up with people wanting to see/hear it. I honestly don't think that leaks change that much in respect to sales because if you are a fan, and have already pre-ordered or plan on ordering the CD, they will get their money anyway. But those who are not fans and just happen to find a leak and download it cause they don't want to pay -- those people are the ones that hurt.
I'll be heading to my local Target to get a few copies on release, two for me (one to open, one to leave sealed) and a couple for some friends. So they'll be getting their (near) $100 from me on the 25th.
