The Challenge Gets Four Times As Big For The New Pornographers

Vancouver's The New Pornographers aren't content to let their fourth album duke it out alone. Long before the official in-store date of Aug. 21 arrives, Challengers is being packaged as part of a deluxe online box set by Matador.

The fourth release in the label's Buy Early Get Now series is available already as a stream to those who visit the site. The physical album will be shipped in time for the official release date, and those who purchase the "Executive Edition" will also receive access to files to three additional digital albums. The first will feature B-sides, demos and alternate mixes from Challengers, the second "Live From The Future" collection will include performances from shows scheduled for later this year, and the third will collect photos, videos and artwork. Those who sign up will also receive advance notice and exclusive ticket purchase links for upcoming tour dates.

For those less hung up on extras, a "Standard Edition" is available with the album tracks, three B-sides and the advance tour notification.

The New Pornogaphers will play with Lavender Diamond and Fancey at Victoria's MacPherson Ballroom on Sept. 13 and Vancouver's Commodore Ballroom on Sept. 28.