The singer's 23rd album went on the Internet in its entirety on 22 September - with American users able to download and keep their own copy.

Due to copyright laws, his UK fans will not be allowed save the 10n tracks on their computers, but they will be able to listen to the all the songs before the record is available in shops.

From 24 September users will be able to hear the new tracks by visiting a special "Web-ring" - 10 linked Internet sites, each containing a song.

Releasing music over the Web is just the first step, says Bowie

Users can join the 'global listening party' at Virgin's Eden Website, which will lead them to the other members of the Web-ring.

Bowie has long been a keen supporter of Internet music releases - two years ago his drum 'n' bass single Telling Lies was only available on the Web.

"I am hopeful this small step will lead to greater steps by myself and others, ultimately giving consumers greater musical choice and easier access to the music they enjoy."

The 52-year-old star hopes his pioneering project will encourage others in the music industry to explore the potential of the Web.

Record companies have been cautious of using the Internet to distribute music - fearing that hi-tech 'bootlegging' would slash their profits.

Self-portraits sold via Bowie's Website

The US release of "hours... " uses a new secure computer system which ensures that once a consumer pays for a cyber-version of the album no duplicate copies can be made from it.

Renowned as a musical and artistic innovator, Bowie is already an old hand when it comes to the Internet.

Not content with creating his own Website, the singer also set up his own Internet provider, BowieNet.

The service provides subscribers with access to news and sport as well as the chance to watch Bowie working in his recording studio.

Paintings by the star were recently sold via the Website.

BowieNet also ran a 'cyber-song contest'. The competition winner, Alex Grant, has gone on to co-write a track for "hours.. " with Bowie.