Music publishers Chrysalis yesterday issued a financial update for the period since 1 Oct last year.

For the quarter up to 31 Dec income from publishing royalties were up 9% year on year, aided in part by the company's relationships with Robbie Williams, Jay-Z and JLS. They were also possibly still earning from the renewed interest in Michael Jackson since the late king of pop's demise, they having a stake in 'Thriller' and 'Rock With You'.

The music firm's non-publishing interests have also been performing as expected, or better. As previously reported, Chrysalis has some interests in the Beatles master recordings via its partnership with producer George Martin, so benefited from the Fab Four's catalogue being re-released last Autumn.

The company also revealed it was considering some acquisitions this year, sitting as they are on a £32 million pile of cash previously set aside for such things.

Commenting on the latest figures, and confirming the acquisition plans, Chrysalis top man Jeremy Lascelles told reporters: "The first quarter [of our current financial year] has been pleasing. Amidst continuing volatility in the record industry, we have been able to demonstrate the breadth and quality of our catalogue and our roster of writers and artists, with so many of them contributing to our performance. We are currently reviewing a number of potential catalogue acquisitions and this, coupled with the ongoing strict management of our cost base, remains the focus of the board in delivering long-term value for our shareholders".