National Geographic Music (National Geographic)

Our friends at the influential UK world music mag Songlines have done it again, beating everyone (including us!) to the punch with the first world music mobile app for iPhone.

According to a press statement released earlier this week, Songlines free iphone app "will allow iPhone and iPod touch users to embark upon a veritable sonic safari." The app, created in conjuction with UK mobile software developers Pilkington Bedwell, will offer audio samples, photography, features, interviews and "reviews spanning music from right across the globe".

"iPhone and iPod touch users will be able to enjoy the launch version of the Songlines world music app for free. This app includes 'Top of the World' lists from the last four issues of the magazine, the playlists of Andrew Kershaw, Philip Pullman, Rob da Bank and Karl Hyde, and Beginner's Guides including Tony Allen and Eleftheria Arvanataki."

'This is what apps are all about,' comments Songlines Publisher Paul Geoghegan, 'creating an experience which takes you off on tangents - and with the Songlines app, a global music discovery. It gives consumers the opportunity to read, sample and purchase music simply and effectively. We're already working on including more material from the Songlines archive, as well as adding new content, including the new official UK world music album chart, and a full index of the Songlines podcasts.'

While you're at it, check out Songlines' recently re-launced website, too-but don't forsake your friends at Nat Geo Music, either!