it is certainly a different market out there an expectations are generally higher in terms of quality. It does differ for different marketplaces. For example as a songwriter you might also want to submit to production companies for use in TV and film... and obviously they want the quality of the finished article... but strictly within music generally they look for finished quality songs from bands (demos are definitely bombed out) but for writers only they can be more lenient...
I would definitely NOT send out cold call unsolicited CDs. You might as well toss your cash for copying and postage straight in the trash.
Instead:
Do your homework. Make a short-list of appropriate label / publisher or production house to ensure your music is appropriate.
Call them. Note down names and roles. Get to know the people including receptionists!
Ask if they are looking for song submissions. Also at this stage find out what they want you to send them... ie guitar and vox with lyrics, a studio demo, a full band recording in a studio etc.. and in what format wav/mp3/cd etc. Also ask what info they need.
Make sure when you send in your CD it is expected. Send it to a specific person.
Getting to know different people within the companies is very useful for tip offs, making more contacts and knowing the deals currently being done.
OR
Toss your cash in the trash
One view of merit is that your songs are worth the effort of sounding as good as they possibly can be. If you don't believe enough in your song, why should they? unfortunately is an attitude many have.
One other option you have is to directly approach bands local serious bands and try and get them to record your songs. if you approach bands who are already producing songs in a style that would compliment the songs it is a win/win. This can also help your Resume and can go some way to demonstrate the appeal of your music. After all as a non performing writer you dont get to easily point to growing fan lists as a reason for signing you.
Main points to take are call and ask what they are looking fir and then give them what they asked for
