Mongrel, which features former Arctic Monkeys bass player Andy Nicholson, are to give their debut album away for free.

'Better Than Heavy' will be attached to copies of The Independent newspaper on March 7th.

The release will mark the first time that a band have given away their debut album for free.

Mongrel also consists of Babyshambles' bass guitarist Drew McConnell and Reverend and the Makers singer Jon McClure.

McClure said the release would give the album “the widest possible platform to artists whose voices could otherwise be ignored”.

He added: “It is a pleasure to do this with The Independent, we are a truly independent band rather than one that just adopts indie values, so it is fitting we are doing this with this newspaper.”

Ian Birrell, The Independent's deputy editor, said: “We are delighted to promote such a fine record by such an original, bold and passionate band, one that clearly shares our commitment to innovation.”

Mongrel join a growing list of musicians, including McFly and Prince, who have released material with a national newspaper.

(by Jason Gregory)