[DATE HERE]

[FIRSTNAME],

Hi, Thomas here--It's nice to be back!

I'm delighted to announce that my new EP 'Oceanea' will be released on November 29th 2010. I could hardly be more excited about this release. I'm not the kind of artist to constantly claim that each new record I put out is my best ever, but I truly believe this EP to be the finest work I've ever done.

I was overwhelmed with the reception that 'Amerikana' got earlier this year. Over half the people on this mailing list bought the EP within the first 24 hours of receiving my email. That's just fantastic, because in online marketing terms, you usually think you're doing well if 2% of recipients even click on on a link, let alone buy a product. It shows me that my core fanbase is very real, active, and loyal. And, given the unusual nature of the music on 'Amerikana', I was flattered that so many people embraced it without being too judgmental about the style I adopted. No 'oh god now Thomas has turned into a country singer--next he'll be doing Grand Ol' Opry wearing sheepskin chaps!' You knew it was just another musical idiom I adopted to help tell my stories, and I thank you for staying so open-minded. 'Oceanea' is a wild journey to a different time and place altogether.

You've all been waiting very patiently for this release, and I realise it's been many months since I gave you the first sneak preview during my Wired podcast 'guest DJ' spot. Why does it seem to be taking so long to get this album out? There are many reasons. Since I quit the Silicon Valley scene a few years ago I've been trying to lead a balanced life, get enough sleep, eat healthily and spend plenty of time with my wife and kids. I've been sailing several times a week, and put a lot of time and love into the restoration of the Nutmeg, which I hope will be my musical base for years to come. I am not rushing the music, as I much prefer to let it flow naturally. Sometimes I'll work without a break for days on end; then give it a rest for a week and try to forget my songs, so I can return to them with fresh ears. I'm just not willing to sacrifice quality for the sake of speed. No longer being signed to a label or management means that the main impetus to get the album out has been internal, and that impetus is very strong. I feel it when I read fanmail, comments or posted messages from impatient listeners: but I just smile and remind myself that there's plenty of music in the world, just not enough truly great music.

So keep the feedback coming--I'm loving this Internet age when I get to hear what my audience is really thinking.

I hope you enjoy the 'Oceanea' EP. It will be live on my site on the morning (UK) of Monday Nov 29th. You'll also be able to order this cool 'Oceanea' t-shirt designed by Paul Sizer. What a great Xmas present!

All the best

TMDR

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