The pain continued in the first six weeks of 2011, with album sales off 11% year-on-year, and no sign of a respite - but the last six weeks have seen modest but consistent gains over 2010.

Whether it is because of a dip in illegal downloading, a more stable economy freeing up disposable income or an improved release slate is not clear, but what is clear is that the situation has improved.

After 12 weeks, SoundScan estimates year-to-date album sales ...