Currently new albums are released on different days of the week in different parts of the world. In North America, it's generally Tuesday. In the United Kingdom and other parts of the world, it's usually Monday. But, according to the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI), which represents record labels around the world, starting this summer the industry will begin releasing new music globally on Fridays.

Why does there need to be a worldwide release day? According to a statement from IFPI head Frances Moore, "Music fans live in the digital world of today. Their love for new music doesn’t recognise national borders. They want music when it’s available on the internet – not when it’s ready to be released in their country. An aligned global release day puts an end to the frustration of not being able to access releases in their country when the music is available in another country."

As to why they decided on Friday to be that global release day, Moore says, "Friday and Saturday are the days of highest footfall in physical retail stores and the highest levels of purchasing traffic online. It’s also the time of greatest activity on social media, helping amplify the buzz around new releases everywhere. And the weekend is a time for greater spontaneous purchasing."

Industry leaders around the world have issued statements of support for the global release day. According to Recording Industry Association of America President/CEO Cary Sherman, "There's a strong consensus for a singular global release day. Consumer research and feedback has informed the decision that Friday is the optimal choice. More than ever, the music industry has become global, and we represent international companies marketing international acts in multiple markets. Geographic lines are often irrelevant to digital marketing strategies and fans' expectations of instant access to their favorite music. Thischange will be good for fans and good for the business."

When it comes to keeping up with all the new hard rock and metal releases, Loudwire's album release calendar is the place to go:

See the 30 Most Anticipated Hard Rock + Metal Albums:

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