those guys at art is hard always do things slightly differently don’t they. whether they’re giving away charity shop cassettes or photos from a local artist you know you’re buying more than just some great music. for aih005 (confusingly released just after aih006) they have gone all modern and high tech on us as well.

the release itself is a compilation of some of the most exciting music coming out of that little south western corner of england. what you’re actually buying though is a map. or a map and a t-shirt. on the map each band is plotted along with a qr code. that’s a square barcode for those that don’t read mashable every day. get your smartphone to take a photo of this barcode and you’ll be transported* to the world of the band with loads of info plus the track in question. if that’s not 21st century, then maybe it’s time to trade in my hoverboard because i don’t know what is.

i’ve been invited as one of the label’s favourite blogs (that’s right motherfucker) to introduce one of the bands included. i’ve gone for a young five piece called big wave. you will know from the first time you hear them that big wave and sockformation were made to go together. you could take my favourite bits of all the bands i love, put them together, move them to torquay and you’d have big wave. you can hear (and download if you’re quick enough) ‘wild strawberries’ below. once you’ve done that go here and order aih005. i’ve taken the option that comes with the t-shirt because i love the top that came with aih001.

*(disclaimer: you will not actually be transported anywhere. this purchase does not include a trip.)