Indie distribution talks

DISTRIBUTED WEIGHT: Sources close to the situation confirm that at least three ADA-distributed labels are indeed, as has been reported, working in concert to drastically reduce their distribution fees, keep their digital rights and retain the ability to sell to the independent sector on their own. Beggars’ Patrick Amory, Secretly Canadian’s Darius Van Arman (also of Jagjaguwar) and Merge’s Laura Ballance have been taking meetings as a group to seek a ground-breaking distribution model that could be collectively worth some $20 million in billing. The chart muscle of Beggars, which has Vampire Weekend (a #1 bow on XL), next week's chart champ Queens of the Stone Age (Matador) and #3 The National (4AD), is truly a game-changer. Merge has Arcade Fire, Spoon, Divine Fits and She & Him on its roster; Secretly Canadian boasts Major Lazer, Yeasayer and Anthony & The Johnsons, among others; and Jagjaguwar's holdings include Bon Iver, Okkervil River and Dinosaur Jr. Sources close to the negotiation say it's unclear if the group is also speaking on behalf of the Domino and Saddle Creek labels. Will ADA or some other indie distribbery give them their new terms? Stay tuned. (6/5p)