Recently I wrote an article on split releases for Intrusive Signals Zine #2 but unfortunately I ran out of space and I had to cut it.
So here's a snippet of it, and the full unabridged article might appear in a future zine....
5 reasons why I like split projects
Fun! Occasionally, working with other people CAN be fun. They might have ideas that you never thought about, or a colour scheme that actually works really well alongside your monochrome sheep skull photo. Also, human interaction? Sometimes, it is ok. Also, if they operate in a different scene or community, from a different part of the world or are pigeonholed into a completely different genre than you - amazing!!1 Just imagine the possibilities.
Economics! You can split any manufacturing costs of physical media between the artists involved. You can divvy up the artwork / design responsibilities. Or you could each make your own to sell if it's a fully DIY tape / CDr effort. Could be a cinch, unless the other guys are stoned 24/7 and don’t respond to your emails.
Marketing! You both got a fan base? This potentially means double exposure. Different social media accounts, forums (I still love those) and mailing lists can really help here.
Contrasts! Generally a physical split offers 2 distinct sides of media for you to digest (tape and vinyl, I'm looking at you). They could be complimentary styles to appease genre hogs, or be completely contrasting to reach new audiences. If you are a fan of one act you may just discover something awesome on the flip side. Or not, but you still get your A-side.
- Exposure! A chance to get your project known in a different scene or indeed continent. And if the other guys are better known than you, it's a chance to get your name out there alongside some heavy hitters.
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