The amateur reviews sometimes are scathing, even insulting. Negative reviews may seem counterproductive for sites selling CDs, but Andy Jassy, Seattle-based Amazon's director of product management, says they keep the site fresh and honest. We've found that the best thing for customers making a buying decision is to have all of the information right in front of them. The sites make assumptions about tastes based on buying patterns revealed in their database. For example, CDNow's Web site informs a surfer that customers who buy Elvis Costello CDs also have bought those of New Colony Six and the Replacements.
Several sites use elaborate sales promotions.
GetMusic LLC, a unit of Bertelsmann, gave away autographed Boys II Men posters with purchases of the group's new album. But Kozmo promises home or office delivery of its CDs in less than an hour for basically the same price as traditional retailers. If hanging out backstage or joining fan clubs is for you, check out your favorite artist's personal home page. Most musicians now operate their own online stores. Prices typically are in line with those of the music retailers, but the artists' sites often offer exclusive goodies.