'Let’s get excited about ... Nick Cave'

Easy one this – we’ve been excited about Nick Cave for many years. But I know you’re thinking ‘well, what has this to do with innovations in digital technology?’ and ‘isn’t he that bloke who did that song with Kylie? – I prefer her hotpants stuff’. Well, give me another four words and we’ll get there. Last night, Mr Cave graced the Southbank Centre for a talk to promote his new book (The Death of Bunny Munro) and touched on how the industry is working hard to adapt to the iPod generation.

With much bemusement, he explained how the book is available as an iPhone app - a world away from the fanzines and bootleg cassettes his old fans have been reared on. So you can read 'Bunny' on screen (which seems an awful way to read a novel – more on that next time) or choose to switch over to Nick’s narration and soundtrack by simply clicking on any word – handy if you want to continue reading after hopping off the bus. And many chapters also include video readings.

Looks like the book industry is hoping to learn from the past complacency of the music companies and see digital as an opportunity rather than a threat. Though when Mr Cave was asked whether he’d read anyone else’s book in this format, he admitted that they’d have to show him how to download it first.

Have you tried the 'Bunny' iPhone app? – let me know what you think.

Please note: Collective takes no shared responsibility for the musings of this lone ex-goth blogger.