As noted by Engadget, Apple's iTunes store is now offering a Next Big Thing (iTunes Link) section with albums that are priced at $5.99 and $6.99 per album:
Well, we're halfway through the year and iTunes has a fine selection of artists who we think have the true grit (or pure luck) it takes to become the next big thing. Not only that, but we're offering these albums for $6.99 or less.
Typical iTunes albums cost $9.99 per album.