Lost Tunes Hit U.K.

Universal has launched a new DRM-free music download service in the UK, focusing on older, more obscure music

These aren’t the latest, biggest tunes. But as an older generation embraces downloads, they could make Universal some money out of its back catalogue. That’s why it’s launched Lost Tunes, a DRM-free download service that covers older, sometimes obscure material, ranging from classic rock to spoken word.

Songs are 99p (just under $2) each, with no set price for entire albums. But the DRM-free format means they can be burned to disc or easily transferred to any portable music player. Although Lost Tunes is UK-only for the moment, Universal is looking to expand elsewhere.

The site’s front page blurb says:

"Think of us as your small local record store, run by a team dedicated to helping you find the very best music. And not only that, but Lost Tunes comes with a secret stash of records you can’t find anywhere else online."