Archive for May, 2004

Open Content Done Right

Thursday, May 13th, 2004

I recently discovered iRATE, a Java application that downloads music tracks that have been licensed as Creative Commons.

You download a handful of songs, then listen to them and rate how you like them. The software will then delete the lowest rated songs and download more tracks, trying to fit your preferences.

When you find tracks you like, it gives you enough meta information to find the artist online. Most artists release only a few tracks this way and still have CDs for sale.

It’s a great way to:

  • Reject the RIAA
  • Listen to new music that you like
  • Support emerging artists

When you download and try it out, I recommend immediately:

  1. Press pause
  2. Go to Settings -> Auto Download and increase the number of auto-download tracks
  3. Go to Settings -> Playlist and set to the maximum number
  4. Go to Settings -> Unrateds On List and increase the percentage
  5. Let it download for several hours or a day because the server is slow

I’ve been very impressed with the quality of the songs. Sure, you find some real stinkers, but overall the tracks are professionally produced and sound great. Enjoy!

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