Formulary for New Media

Metalabel argues that the internet has made media feel stale and commercial, and that a "New Media" built on a new spirit, rather than new technology, is needed to restore wonder and truthfulness. The essay says New Media breaks out of platform formats, invites audience participation, and may embrace limited, handmade, or small-group distribution. It cites examples including Cindy Lee's album Diamond Jubillee, sold as a .zip download that listeners pay what they want for, and Gary Hustwit's generative ENO documentary, whose every screening is a different edit. It presents the movement as only beginning on the fringes.