REM, never an act to follow trends, has allowed music-sharing web site iLike to stream the rock giant's upcoming album "Accelerate" via iLike, a popular web widget, or application, on Facebook and other social networks.
The move marks the first time a major act will allow fans to preview and share music using iLike. The album will be available for download on March 24, nearly one week before the album is officially released on March 31.
Michael Stipe, the enigmatic lead singer, was quoted by Billboard.com saying, "I think you can either go with it or sit back and watch it happen, and I would rather be out on the field than in the bleachers."
Seems REM is ready to play ball.