Dec 10, 2007 -- /prbuzz/ --According to a rep for Jammer Audio, fans are discussing release strategies for what they affectionately call "the Trousers," a new mp3 format audio book, from the original published work written by Josh Rogan of Liverpool, England.
A fan named Trevor recently contacted Jammer to make his plea for an organized freedom march on Starbucks, a company widely seen as in the avant guard of those breaking down the strictures of boxy distributors. Wearing a Ken Roley t-shirt, Trevor was adamant that he would not rest until the Trousers were released.
"For one thing, it's Christmas," he said. "Why are The Old Man's Trousers stuck in a drawer? Where do Trousers belong---stuffed in people's stockings, that's where. And Starbucks can help."
His friend, Felicity, agreed. "We want our coffee and The Old Man's Trousers. That's not too much to ask. I love Jingle Bells, but a funny audio book is a great change of pace."
When urged to release The Old Man's Trousers, a spokeman who may or may not have been connected with Starbucks commented that Starbucks' hearmusic label had already released Paul McCartney's "Memory Full" cd (now available for the holidays in a special DVD gift pack), as well as Joni Mitchell ("Shine"), James Taylor ("One Man Band"), Josh Groban ("Noel"), "A Charlie Brown Christmas" by the Vince Guaraldi Trio, and various holiday compilations, such as "Stockings By the Fire."
"Stockings by the fire?" Trevor asked incredulously. "While The Old Man's Trousers are left out in the cold? I don't think so."
Jammer Audio reps did note that Starbucks was indeed a leader in bringing new talent to a wider marketplace. Hilary McRae, for example, who is recording her first album at Spectrum Studios, in Pompano Beach, Florida, will release her cd through Starbucks in Spring 2008. Her song, "Consider Me Gone," is available in most of Starbucks' 9,000 stores nationwide now.
Razor & Tie Entertainment, which owns the wildly popular Kid Bopz series, also produces artists who have released discs in conjunction with Starbucks' hearmusic label, such as "global superstar Angelique Kidjo" and "award-winning kids music star Laurie Berkner."
Some Starbuck releases, such as Saturday Night Live's Best of 2006-07, are so successful, they nab re-release deals with additional distributors. According to press reports, the SNL disc will be re-released by Universal in March 2008.
Finally, Starbucks has released the audiobooks, The Velveteen Rabbit and The Night Before Christmas, both read by actress Meryl Streep.
"We agree with fans that The Old Man's Trousers should be released by Starbucks immediately," said Susan Flowers, blogger and marketing wonk. "The Trousers audiobook is a joy. It's a completely charming tale that's easy listening at its finest. It's perfect for lightening up a little over the holidays and bringing a smile to young and old. And what an interesting gift."
"There's nothing wrong with blockbusters, the mainstream same-o," Flowers continued, "But once in a while it's beautiful to discover the little gems along the path less taken. I hope Starbucks is listening along with everyone else who is enjoying The Old Man's Trousers audiobook."
"The Old Man's Trousers" mp3 audiobook is available at :
http://www.lulu.com/content/1339181
A preview of the first 2 chapters is available at :
http://www.lulu.tv/?p=18900
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About the Press Release
Jammer Audio Books announced today that fans of its first production are mounting a campaign to persuade Starbucks to release the audio book of The Old Man's Trousers.
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