Matt Sharp and the Rentals have a new multimedia project they’re calling Songs About Time, billed as “one year in photography, film and music.” According to the site, the band will record and release three new digital mini-albums over 2009 with the first appearing in April, and the next two in July and October. Each mini-album will sell for “around ten dollars” exclusively from the band’s music store (driven by Topspin, by the way, who are cool people).

The project also includes a daily photo diary and weekly short films about the writing and recording of the music.

There will be a limited edition deluxe box set for sale “that encompasses the film, music and photography that we have created over the year.” The set will be individually numbered and signed by the Rentals and includes 180 gram vinyl, original artwork, compact discs featuring all the music as well as the complete original score from the film soundtrack, and other goodies to be revealed in April. The first 365 people to purchase the limited edition deluxe box set will receive extras including backstage passes to upcoming Rentals shows.

Give them your email address and they will send you a link to download a new MP3 “within a day or two.” Haven’t gotten ours yet but we’ll be sure to let you know how it is when we do.