Geff, if you're pondering an ep, say, from a new artist
1) do you need at least one song free beforehand to get interested?
2) what's it worth, price-wise, to you? Is price first? And does it matter if it's got four songs, or more, like,
if it has seven, would that give you more a sense of 'I might get more for my money'? I hope I'm asking sensate questions here

If you're like me, reading about a band is often the start. I've enjoyed suggestions here at ICE but I presently purchase at full price rarely and often go "used" with older stuff---again rarely. I do give asking price to an artist who I've come to see, though---I've gotten most of my cds at live shows this year.
I addressed Geff, but any of you ICEr's who live and breathe this stuff are welcome to answer!