Phoenix Credit Internet for Global Success

Good things come to those who wait, and Gallic pop virtuosos Phoenix know that better than most. Having spent 10 years appreciated in their French homeland and other European countries, the band is now becoming a planet-straddling concern.

Their fourth album, 'Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix,' bagged the Grammy for Best Alternative Album and their first UK festival headliner secured in the shape of Field Day at London's Victoria Park in July. Phoenix themselves have put their new-found success down to the quality of their music -- and the power of the Internet.

Speaking to BBC 6 Music of the decision to give away the track, '1901,' frontman Thomas Mars said, "It feels like there is a new generation listening to us. There are kids that are on blogs that are aware of us. Whereas before we were stuck with traditional media.

"The record was just done, and we gave away '1901' free on our Web site and instantly things happened all over the world, even in places where radio wouldn't play us or places that didn't know about us."

He added, "It became this weird phenomenon, and it became the most blogged song. Then more people listen to it."