Why not just parse the info that the 'file' command gives you?

An example:

$ file Tracy\ Chapman\ -\ Fast\ Car\ Live\ Acoustic.mp3
Tracy Chapman - Fast Car Live Acoustic.mp3: MP3, 128 kBits, 44.1 kHz, 
+JStereo
[download]

And yes, if you are with the RIAA, I DO own the CD. :)

Kickstart