Guest TIP said: "But I'd especially invite any responses that seriously consider the possibilities that the evolving world of information- and music-distribution offer, and look for ways to make the best of it... Isn't it time we started looking for solutions?"

Definitely. There are already half a dozen people on this thread (including Jim C and SO'P) who seem to think an online subscription archive might be a good plan and may be up for trying to do something about it.

A place to start could be to ask the record labels what their plans are for the stuff they're holding and not planning to release. and whether they might consider collaborating with each other and/or willing enthusiasts to make it available online. and if not, why not?

www.folkster.org is available. anyone got 10.99 plus VAT handy?