Music aficionados everywhere are treating Wednesday Oct. 10 as a holiday on par with Christmas or Flag Day.

In a move that will be known as either a monumental success or a reckless failure, Radiohead shocked fans by announcing via website that their new album was set to be released in less than two weeks.

However, before any of you rush to line up outside your favorite record store, there’s something that you should know. The album is initially only being released digitally through the band’s Web site. What’s even stranger is the fact that because the band is no longer signed to any record label, they have full say over what the price of the album is.

And how much will the album, “In Rainbows,” cost you?

The answer to that question is completely up to you.

In a move unprecedented for a band with Radiohead’s fan-base, the album’s cost is completely up to the buyer. You can pay a hundred dollars for the ten tracks, or nothing. What’s even better is the fact that the songs will be DRM-free, meaning that you have full control over where and when you want to play the mp3’s.

Radiohead made a name for themselves as one of the cornerstones of the Britpop movement of the ‘90s. 1997’s “OK Computer” is the bands unquestioned masterpiece.

The album achieved unparalleled success by using a hypnotic blend of layered lyrics, an electronic vibe that sends currents through the listener and the haunting voice of frontman Thom Yorke. One of their most widely known songs, “Karma Police” stands the test of time as one of the highlights of music during the ‘90s.

The English rockers haven’t released an album since 2003’s “Hail to the Thief,” which polarized fans and critics due to its departure from the sound of their first few albums. Despite this, music afficianados everywhere are treating Wednesday Oct. 10 as a holiday on par with Christmas and Flag Day.

Fans with a desire for something tangible need not worry. Through the site, you can also pre-order a deluxe version which includes the digital download, plus both a CD and vinyl version of the album, exclusive art book and a hardbound case for the whole thing.

While this version runs about $80, that’s a small price to pay for true Radiohead fans. Also, there have been rumors of a normal version of the album being released in stores at some point next year.

All of this is irrelevant. Within the next few days, everyone can enjoy Radiohead’s newest album for whatever price they desire to pay. Expect a review of “In Rainbows” next week.

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