I am far more interested in what interested engaged people think over the opinions of most music reviewers.

Your observations seem pretty much on the mark.

Instead, would it be better to do:
1) early notice of digital release to fans, with ability for fans to spread the word on social media
2) more formal media announcement
3) physical CDs

As it is, as a fan, I see recordings being previewed, but I can't listen or spread the word until much later. My listening is mostly digital these days, so the CD is of no use.

I'm not a music blogger, but I do tweet what I listen to, and recommend music to friends. This type of peer sharing is probably meaningless to major pop music stars, but is meaningful to working musicians who are building a “1000 true fans” type fan community.

Your experience suggests that the release process should be turned on its head, to enable the fanbase to be the preview audience.

I am far more interested in what interested engaged people think over the opinions of most music reviewers.

Your observations seem pretty much on the mark.

Instead, would it be better to do:
1) early notice of digital release to fans, with ability for fans to spread the word on social media
2) more formal media announcement
3) physical CDs

As it is, as a fan, I see recordings being previewed, but I can't listen or spread the word until much later. My listening is mostly digital these days, so the CD is of no use.

I'm not a music blogger, but I do tweet what I listen to, and recommend music to friends. This type of peer sharing is probably meaningless to major pop music stars, but is meaningful to working musicians who are building a “1000 true fans” type fan community.

Your experience suggests that the release process should be turned on its head, to enable the fanbase to be the preview audience.