The Boxer Rebellion 'outselling Kings Of Leon, Coldplay on iTunes'

The Boxer Rebellion's new album is currently outselling the likes of Kings Of Leon, MGMT and Coldplay on the US version of iTunes, even though it is a self-release.

Despite the success, 'Union' has been barred from entering the Official UK Charts this Sunday (January 18) - because the band have only released the album digitally.

The band, who were signed to Alan McGee's Poptones label but currently have no record deal, self-released 'Union' on January 11. Unexpectedly, the album, and its lead single 'Evacuate' have both become download successes.

is currently at Number One in the iTunes US Alternative Chart.

The album is also selling well on iTunes UK, where it is currently Number Four in the Album Chart.

Fans on the Boxer Rebellion messageboard have been campaigning to get the rules changed.

A website administrator, posting on behalf of the band, wrote a message asking fans to contact the Official Chart Company.

"This is a completely independent release and with no label backing, no finance, no radio play and no press in the UK," the message said. "We have, with the support of (and a massive gamble taken by) iTunes, managed to break through and chart very highly in the iTunes stores so far.

"This basically means that The Boxer Rebellion will not see benefit from this success in terms of a chart position [in the Official UK Charts]. At this point, the possibility of pressing CDs was not viable. Should we be penalised in the charts?

"If you think no, then start emailing the chart companies in the UK and making them aware."

Since their success with the self release, The Boxer Rebellion's management told NME.COM that the representatives of Radiohead, Arctic Monkeys, Editors and The Pretenders have been in touch to congratulate them.

For more information head to Theboxerrebellion.net.