BOSTON, MA -- 08/09/2000 -- Boston-based independent rock band Instar recently caught the attention of local law enforcement officials and music industry professionals with its use of a controversial CD packaging.

'Toxic to the Good Times', a single release from the band's upcoming album, is wrapped in a package resembling those used in the medical and pharmaceuticals industries. There is also a loose tablet, reported to be a harmless vitamin pill, in the CD case's plastic binder.

'Given the connection between drugs and the music scene, the nature of the packaging and its contents did concern us. But the tablet turned out to be only a breath mint,' said one local law enforcement official who wanted to remain anonymous. 'We as a law enforcement community do not condone anything that even vaguely represents the drug culture. However, in this case Instar has not committed a violation of the law .'

Since the band was assembled in 1998, Instar has developed an extensive fan base in America and around the world through self- promotion, and by offering its music over the Internet (www.instarmusic.com).

'The `Toxic to the Good Times' case was designed to draw a parallel between the pharmaceutical and music industries,' said band front-man Karl von Kries. 'Putting new music out there is an experimental process very much like the one involved in pharmacutical drug trials.'

All of Instar's recordings, including the critically acclaimed 'Rich Girls,' were written, recorded and distributed by the band. Von Kries credits technology and the advent of the Internet-age as playing major roles in the way a band can develop.

'Being independent used to mean playing sporadic gigs at no-name venues, but now we can forge direct relationships with our fans,' von Kries said. 'Samples of our music are always available on- line, not to mention the fact that new songs and band updates can be accessible on a continuing basis.'

Instar's first full-length album, 'Amusing the Enemy', will be available in September.  The 'Rich Girls' EP, Singles, b-sides and other tracks can be found by visiting www.instarmusic.com.

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