New generation can lead industry: do it yourself approach may threaten old models, but also offers new opportunities.(EDITORIAL)

In many respects, there is nothing new about DIY.

The late Seventies punk and new wave explosion which was built on it, created many of the building blocks of today's independent sector, including Rough Trade, Mute, Beggars Group and Vital Distribution.

But the developments of the past 12 months represent something fundamentally different.

Technology has changed the parameters within which self-starters can operate. Home recording technology has long since changed the barriers of entry for those looking to record their own music. But, the past year-and-a-half has seen the internet unlock other parts of the process for one-man-bands--just as, at the same time, consolidation within the industry's bigger companies has created the space for them to thrive.

As the facilities for individuals to make their own commercial-quality music have become more accessible, the web has essentially broken down many of the walls of communication. Today, artists can make their own music, while connecting directly with their audience as well as the media, which can expose their music and much more besides.

Thus, you have the Kray Twinz' next single featuring a global star such as Snoop Dogg, while Imogen Heap has secured a sync on the Narnia movie ...