Radiohead are on course to top the UK album chart after finally releasing In Rainbows in shops.

The band made headlines last year when they allowed fans to decide how much to pay to download the new album.

The experiment was at first hailed a success after fans offered up their credit cards for the group’s seventh album. But later a survey revealed two-thirds of downloaders paid nothing at all it.

Now the album is heading for the No 1 spot this Sunday, with sales predicted to reach 50,000, proving fans are still willing to part with money to own an actual CD.

"No doubt many people appreciated the opportunity to download the album for free, but this demand also underlines the enduring appeal of the CD," said HMV's Gennaro Castaldo.

"As true fans we love to buy and collect albums by our favourite artists in their physical form while also having the opportunity to create our favourite playlists via downloads.

"The simple truth is we want to have the best of both worlds - to be able to mix and match between physical and digital music. As retailers we're doing more and more to cater to this growing trend."

In Rainbows is outselling Take That's Beautiful World, which bounced back into the number two spot following their New Year ITV concert.

Early January is traditionally a slow time for album sales and 50,000 copies should be enough to push In Rainbows into the top spot. Meanwhile, The X Factor winner Leon Jackson looks likely to retain the No 1 position in the singles chart with When You Believe.

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