LABEL INTENSIVE: Introducing Kansas City's finest, this is The Company

The Companyis a specialist DIY label based out of Kansas City, whose vision for the label was to put the spotlight on the heavy scene in the local area. Guided by the long term mentor, Steve STB, The Company founder Josh Wilkinson known for his design work for boutique stoner doom label  STB Records  took a leapt of faith and would release the debut from local boys Keef Mountainon vinyl, thus the label was born and with it, another top class label issuing albums lauded by the underground scene but seemingly ignored by the big boys. 

Now with five vinyl releases behind them, I took the opportunity to fire some questions at them, in order to get low down on this unique and high class label. "Welcome to The Company".

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your background?

My name is Joshua Wilkinson. I have lived in the Kansas City Metropolitan area for 95% of my life, the other 5% being Omaha, NE. I have an associates degree in Graphic Design, and currently daylight as an employee for a Large Format print shop here in KC. I’ve done design work some of the following bands: Hossferatü, Merlin, Druglord, Red Wizard, Crown of Thornz, Bright Curse, Eternal Black, Custom Black, Olde, Sinister Haze, Goya, Ancient Warlocks, Joel Grind, Doctor Doom, Fistula, Year of the Cobra, Geezer, and The Watchers, just to name a “few”. I also handle the majority of design, and marketing for my label.

What inspired you to start a record label?

I started realizing how many good bands there were in KC, and I felt like they needed to be heard outside of the midwest. Originally the idea was to do a single 7” or Flexi to sell on The Companys website to draw attention to my design services. I never had any intention to start a label; I just wanted to sell something different that other designers weren't offering. I approached my favorite KC band, Keef Mountain, and they were into the idea completely. As some of you may know, I handle most of the design work over at STB Records, so when I mentioned the idea to Steve from STB, he was the one who pushed me to go the full distance and release a full length. I invited the Keef boys over to my house, I laid my plan out to them, and they jumped aboard. So that was the beginning of The Company as a record label.

What are some of the difficulties you have faced and currently face?

Money and time. I can confidently say those are the only 2 road blocks I’ve faced in my short experience. I could always use another 8 hours in my day. With my day job, my main design and label hours are limited to the evenings and weekends, but I’m always working things over in my head, or communicating throughout the day regarding design and label stuff. It never gets “shut off”.

What would you describe as The Company’s 'vision' or 'philosophy'?

My main vision was to put a spotlight on KC and its incredibly talented heavy scene. The metal scene, the punks, the unbelievable Hardcore scene we have out here, whatever. I personally am more into the “stoner” side of things so I chose to focus first and foremost on those bands because I feel like I can market them honestly, because I’m also a fan. I would never release an album that I personally wouldn't listen to. This is strictly a labor of love.

Are there other labels that have inspired you? Other labels you think people should look into?

STB and Poisoned Mind Records, hands down. Steve from STB has been my mentor since day 1. He took a huge chance on me, took me on as his lead designer without ever having met me, and really taught me a lot along the way. He pushed me, made me challenge myself a lot, and taught me a great deal about the business along the way. Same with Tom from Poisoned Mind, he’s my bud! (What up Tommy!) I used to do most of their design work as well, so Tom and I used to (and still do) bounce ideas off each other all the time. Those guys are both huge inspirations to me, and great friends. On a much bigger, much different level, I’m incredibly inspired by Relapse Records of course. I’m mostly inspired by their ability to market a vast array of genres and stay relevant for so many years. That’s something I’d like to see The Companydo, is sorta branch out and reach a broader audience.

Tell us about some of The Company’s earlier releases you think people may have slept on?

If you’re not listening to Hyborianyet, I would very highly recommend checking them out. They’ve put out such a phenomenally talented and extremely well written record. They recorded the whole thing themselves in their practice space. It’s a true DIY recording but if you didn't know any better you'd think it was recorded in a giant studio. It’s massive. I get nothing but positive comments about them. They're some of the hardest working dudes in the game and some of the most talented people I’m privileged to call friends.. Mark my words: They are going to go far in this business. I Love those dudes like brothers.

Keef Mountain, our first release, is one of my favorite bands, and 2 of my favorite people on earth. The Company, as a label, wouldn’t exist if it weren't for them. The album itself fucking RULES! If you like Sleep, or the Melvins, then you’ll very likely be into this album. It’s a fun record. Another one that was completely recorded DIY by Alex Tunks (Inner Altar, Blindside USA) in a bar basement. The cavernous surrounding gives it a huge sound.

A lot of people know Curse the Son, but I don't think a lot of people realized we released the album, because a lot of them we’re expecting it to be released by STB. That’s another album I recommend. They're the only band on the label who isn't from the midwest, but they're part of my STB family, and the album is so god damn good, I had to push myself to do that one. It’s reminiscent of Electric Wizard style stoner/doom, but to me there’s a big Seattle/grunge influence to the record, especially the vocals. I always say it’s like If Alice in Chains had started a Sabbath worship band.

What upcoming releases are you most excited about?

I’m really excited about Snowchilds‘Age of Change’ which was well received when it was released digitally so I’m pumped on that one. Snowchild is from Wichita, KS which is a couple hours south of KC. For those that aren't aware, Kozmik Artifactz will also be doing a pressing of that album as well with different colors and packaging so stay tuned for that. Kozmik always has bad ass releases! After that I’m co-releasing Youngblood Supercultsexceptional new album “The Great American Death Rattle” with DHU Records. Another midwestern band, YBSC hails from Topeka, KS. The albums great, and has a lot of emotion felt on the recording. The addition of Brad Morris on bass and his contribution to the song writing made a huge impact on their sound, for the better of course. I swear to god I get goosebumps everytime I hear Davids voice. That guys a true vocalist. Weston brings “stoned and steady” drumming, and Bailey just fuckin’ shreds it! So other than that, we’ve also got plans to work with some other great KC area bands, Inner Altar being the one I’m most excited for.

Tell us about some of the newer bands on The Company roster.

One of my favorite bands in the world, Inner Altar, just got done demoing their new album, so hopefully we’ll get a full length from them in the near future. Inner Altar features members of Keef Mountain, Blindside USA, No Class, Altered Beast, and Blood Shaman. They're kinda like Demon Head, or early Witchcraftwith a KC twist. Their two first tapes are some of my favorite music ever written. Check them out.

Gnarly Davidsonhas been part of The Company crüe for a while now but I don't think they got the attention they deserve. They hail from Lawrence, KS and are a three piece who play LOUD fuzzy stoner metal. We re-released a tape they recorded on the fourth of July. They recorded one side sober, and then re-recorded side b after they had gotten drunk. We’ve still got some of those tapes available. I hope to work with them again in the future, they rule.

If you could have released any record past or present, what would it be and why?

Inner Altar: “Vol 1” + “Vol 2”… Did I mention I love Inner Altar?

What does the future of The Company look like, from your perspective?

I’d like to see it become as big as possible. Its hard running this thing while maintaining a steady day job, but I bust my ass so I hope it pays off someday. I would at the very least like to look back and say that I was part of not only KCs music scene, but the whole Stoner/Doom community in general.

The End

Label Info: http://thecompanykc.com

LABEL INTENSIVE: Sounds from the underground with Transcending Obscurity Records

Perception is a curious thing isn’t it?  It is the way in which something is regarded, understood, or interpreted, but our ability to fully appreciate something can be stunted by a lack of knowledge or awareness, or our blind refusal to embrace something without having consumed it first.   Something which is unfamiliar can be scary and as individual’s we tend to stick to what we know, in fear of making ourselves vulnerable, or the target of ridicule from friends, family, work colleagues etc.   

Take music for example, and for the sake of this blog, heavy music. The way that we perceive things is often based on familiarity, oh that band sounds like Sabbath, I’m sure to like it, or the way we perceive a band can be based upon uneducated stereotypes or associations on a superficial level, black metal and churches, nu metal with baggy trousers and so on, but if we take a step back and perceive something without prejudice, by educating ourselves, by absorbing information, or in the case of music,  judging a band solely on the music, as individuals we can transcend these boundaries or barriers to good music and judge music solely on merit.

If we strip away the baggage associated with music, things such as consumerism, or prejudice associated with gender, race, religion culture, it doesn’t matter whether it is popular music or underground music, if we strip it back to its core, if we listen without prejudice or fear of ridicule, then as individuals we can truly have a better appreciation of things and break down barriers.

Why has THE SLUDGELORD gone all philosophical you might ask, because today’s guest Kunal Choksi, is a man attempting to change public perceptions in heavy music,  a heavy metal fan of 20 years, he created a label whose very name Transcending Obscurity resonates with many of the themes discussed, indeed if you take those two words and attach some meaning to them, the very essence of their philosophy is to rise above stereotypes and educate consumers that there is talent  all over the world, yes it may be unintelligible and ambiguous to some, but by giving this talent a voice or a platform, the obscure can rise and hopefully in the process change perception and if that occurs, then Kunal Choksi has succeeded in his mission,

to transcend obscurity. 



Kunal, can you tell us a little bit about yourself and your background.

Thank you very much for this interview! It means a lot to us and hopefully our bands can get better exposure. Well, I'm from Mumbai, India and have been a metal head for over two decades now. I've been writing since 2004 and started a webzine called “Diabolical Conquest” which was renamed to “Transcending Obscurity” to signify better intent and purpose. Along the way a record label was started and subsequently even a PR company of the same name. I'm also learning guitar and drums and hope when I'm old and bitter, I can start a band of my own. I don't have high expectations of it but it's some kind of a carrot dangling in front of me that makes me crawl ahead despite being overburdened and stressed already. I dabble in art too but suck and need more practice (and time!). 

What inspired you to start a record label?

In the last decade, it was after having reviewed ALL the releases of this obscure death metal band from Australia called THE DEAD, and even conducting an interview with the band, that I was asked if I knew any record label that they could work with. It then dawned upon me that instead of urging my label friends (in vain) to sign that band; I could do that myself and give them what they wanted. The intention was noble and naive but I suppose I did well for that band eventually. I'm grateful to all the bands that put their faith in me and I can only hope I didn't let them down a lot. 

What are some of the difficulties you have faced and currently face?

The most difficult thing is to convince bands to work with you, especially when you're based in India. It's not my fault that I was born here. I worked my way up and spent countless years trying to push bands without expecting anything in return mostly via the webzine. With my label, I had to face a lot of criticism when I decided to start a sub-label and even distribution legs and work with inexperienced bands. My intention was to give them a good platform and visibility internationally and I think people in the press and even otherwise are not as surprised as they used to be when they come across Indian metal bands after having put out over 30 releases of bands from the Indian subcontinent. Some bands take it all for granted and give you a hard time, as if you're their servant. I get tired man. I work very hard and under depression most of the time. All things said and done, I suppose my work had some result and perhaps some bands are better known after all I did for them. I guess I can live with that. 

What would you describe as Transcending Obscurity's 'vision' or 'philosophy'?

I used to be very anal earlier on and didn't sign bands easily. I was interested in more original-sounding music or what appealed to me in a certain way. I've become more open-minded since but I'm still very particular about the quality. Since the name change to Transcending Obscurity, the intention has been to help them rise as the name suggests and that's why I'm focusing a lot more on the PR part of things than anything else and still prefer to do the PR work myself as opposed to hiring other PR companies (not that I can afford them anyway, haha). 

Are there other labels that have inspired you? Other labels you think people should look into?

Of course there are labels that I keep observing and ones that keep repressing all the time because their sales are so good. Admittedly I've yet to reach that level but I don't have a lot of strong local support nor can I attend festivals like in Europe and have stalls there or travel in vans carrying my merchandise. It's a drawback for sure but with low shipping costs worldwide, perhaps the word will spread and for the sake of getting good music, they won't hesitate to order from India directly haha. 

Tell us about some of TO's earlier releases you think people may have slept on.

Oh there are a few that could've done better but probably due to the year-end timing, didn't as much as anticipated. They'd include this fantastic stoner doom band with death metal influences called ALTAR OF BETELGEUZE, the sublime sludge/doom band from Irelandcalled SOOTHSAYER, and even the great Finnish blackened death metal band SEPULCHRAL CURSE. There's also this reissue of the old school death metal band WARLORD U.K.'s classic album that's as solid as it gets. I wish the SWAMPCULT album did better for all the effort that I put into its packaging and promotion. Oh well, at least I tried. Thanks for asking that question! Here are their official Bandcamp links - 

ALTAR OF BETELGEUZE- https://altarofbetelgeuze.bandcamp.com/

SOOTHSAYER - https://soothsayerdoom.bandcamp.com/

SEPULCHRAL CURSE- https://sepulchralcurse.bandcamp.com/

WARLORD U.K. - https://warlorduk.bandcamp.com/

SWAMPCULT - https://swampcult.bandcamp.com/

What upcoming releases are you most excited about?

Right now I've got my hopes pinned on the Israeli black metal band ARALLUand the stoner/doom/shoegaze band MINDKULT from US, but beyond that, I'm very excited about the upcoming releases of the experimental black metal bands ISGHERURD MORTH(International) and ARKHETH (Australia) who've used saxophone bits in their eccentric music. Even the black/thrash band AFFLIKTOR are very refreshing in their approach and their album will be up soon for pre-orders. There are also releases planned of a couple of unannounced Spanish death metal bands. Then there's this crust band MARGINAL from Belgium and their music flat out rules. And then there's this sludge/doom band from Brazil called JUPITERIAN and they're going to release a stunner as well. It's going to be coupled with the release of the Finnish sludge/doom band LURK which I love. There are also these two supergroups, HEADS FOR THE DEAD and TOWARDS ATLANTIS LIGHTS who're yet unannounced and their music is jaw-dropping. Watch out for their official announcements/pre-orders soon! 

With regards to the bands on the Indian/Asian sub-label, you can look forward to the releases of death metal bands like GUTSLIT and FRAGARAK, doomsters DJINN AND MISKATONIC, heavy metal band KNIGHT(for whom I'm painting the album artwork) and there's also the upcoming release of thrashers EXALTERfrom our neighbouring country Bangladesh. Somewhere down the line, I also have to put out releases by black metal bands SOLAR DEITY and STARK DENIAL. 



Tell us about some of the newer bands on TO's roster.

I haven't yet announced most of them but the latest signing that was made public was of this Swedish death metal force FERAL. You can find the announcement link here-

It's going to a mix as always of all styles and sizes. I understand as of now it's difficult to find a niche tag for the label but I hope eventually, people will embrace the diversity and see the consistency in quality. I'll work hard as always and will leave it for others to decide. I've seen too much to be shaken by criticism or setbacks. I fear letting the bands down by not doing enough but I can't control the outcome where it comes to the sales at least. This year hasn't been too good financially with my foray into vinyl which has yet to pick up, but without daring to try new things, I'd never find out for sure haha. The box sets have met with a very good response however. I'm going to experiment with the tape format next. 

What does the future of TO look like, from your perspective?

I've never been able to predict such things but I'm glad to make new friends, customers and have more bands working with me. I hope people will look beyond the country I'm from and give me a fair chance. Again, worldwide shipping for a T-shirt/CD is only $2.99 USD with just $0.99 per additional item so it shouldn't be too difficult haha. 

Thanks once again for taking interest in my activities and appreciate all the help that you/THE SLUDGELORD have offered us! 

Transcending Obscurity Official Site - https://tometal.com/

Transcending Obscurity Records Bandcamp - http://transcendingobscurity.bandcamp.com/

Transcending Obscurity Records Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/transcendingobscurityrecords/

LABEL INTENSIVE: Christine Kelly of Tridroid Records Lists her Top 10 Labels to Watch in 2017

Tridroid Records is an independent metal label launched in July, 2012 by original owner Andrew Rehberger and was one of the earlier labels responsible for the metal tape resurgence in the US. In 2016, after 4 years and around 80 releases to their name, the label would change hands and who better to take over than self confessed Tridroid fan Christine Kelly.   Having been involved in underground metal for about 15 years and with a desire to run a metal cassette label for years taking over at Tridroid Records seemed like hand of fate had dealt a winning hand.

Tragically Andrew would suddenly and tragically pass away, so what better endorsement to his memory than to continue what he created, indeed under Christine’s tenure the label is going from strength to strength.  So with recent releases from  Heavy Temple, Unand the forthcoming album from our own Daniel Jackson via project Void Ritual,  we have invited Christine to talk about 10 labels she digs and one’s you should to watch out for in 2017 and beyond. 

Before the days of Bandcamp, I mostly just looked for label owners who shared my taste and bought up anything they put out.  It's easier to pick and choose these days, but I still value finding labels that I can blind-buy from and trust that the release will look and sound amazing. Here's a few that I'm keeping my eye on this coming year: (click on the labels name for web links)

1). Graven Earth Records

Graven Earth came from nowhere in 2016 and put out 100% quality releases straight outta the gate. Sarcoptes, Possessor, and the cassette version of Khemmis – “Hunted”are just 3 of the things that caught my eye.  I can't wait to see what comes from this label in the New Year, because if I don't know the material, I know I should.

2). Small Doses

Full disclosure: Label owner Joe Beres does a lot of design work for Tridroid, but that's because I saw his work while I was in Minneapolis and liked his clean style and taste so much that I pulled him into my camp. Small Doses releases material more on the drone/industrial/noise side of the spectrum but also represents the diversity of those genres, with everything from Locrian to Bastard Noise to Whitehorse released under his aegis. You can be sure that anything coming out of Small Doses looks amazing, too, because Joe's aesthetic sense and knowledge of packaging ensure that his output is nothing short of stellar.

3). Werkstatt Recordings

If you're even remotely into electro-synth music, Werkstatt is a label to seek out. I'm a relative newbie to the new wave of electro, so I value someone who can sift through the glut and present the best of the best. The excellent art and design on Werkstatt'sreleases is something that inspires me, especially with their high level of output.

4). Sylvan Screams Analog

Sylvan Screamsis the only label I've made it my business to own every single release by. To me, Mitch King at Sylvan Screams represents everything good about DIY cassette culture – he's a maniac, he knows his shit, and his releases consistently introduce me to bands I need to hear. It ain't an easy gig owning a tape label, and his devotion to it was one of the reasons I got into the biz. His stuff sells out pretty quick, so make sure you follow him on Facebook if you don't already.

5). Foreign Sounds/Children of the Night

The level of quality cassette releases on this label is just unprecedented. In 2016 they put out some of my favorites, including I Shalt Become – “Wanderings”, Krieg – “Blue Miasma”, and Onirik – “Casket Dream Veneration”. All have great packaging without being over-the-top. As a label owner, you want to see what other people are doing, and I'm always paying attention to FS/CofN.

6). Medusa Crush

Medusa Crush has been on my radar for a while. Their releases definitely don't adhere to a genre, and I know I'll hear something new and different every time. Then, MCreleased one of my favorite albums of the year with Lightsabres – “Hibernation”. Now I'm keeping an even closer eye on 'em, because, while they're not the most prolific label on my list, there's a lot to be said for quality over quantity.

7). Bindrune Recordings

The only reason this label isn't #1 on my list is because, if you're anything like me, you already know Bindrune. I've been blind-buying from Marty for over 10 years now, and his releases are the pinnacle of musical taste and design. I hope to still be buying everything he puts out 10 years from now.

8). Caligari Records

This is another one that's lower on the list because, again, you probably know Caligari. When it comes to US tape labels that brought the format back to the fore, Caligariis one of the biggies. If it's a metal release on tape, Caligari has it. Not to mention that the label name belies a love of Weimar cinema that I very much appreciate.

9). Grimoire Records

Grimoire Recordsis another label I'm always watching. Genevieve, Torrid Husk, Myopic, Barbelith, and Dendritic Arbor are just a few of the reasons why. It's also nothing short of remarkable to me that the owner does all the recording, mixing, and mastering for all of his own releases. This level of involvement is a rare thing these days, and I give huge props to his vision.

10). Broken Limbs Recordings

Broken Limbs can do no wrong. Wode, Our Place of Worship is Silence, Thrawsunblat, Cara Neir, Crowhurst, Sea of Bones, Immortal Bird... I'm gonna be honest, every single release is a worthy listen. And the artwork? Simply amazing. Definitely one of my biggest inspirations.

For more information on Tridroid Records check out the link below

Label Info: bandcamp || facebook

LABEL INTENSIVE: A 2016 Guide through the Magical World of Elektrohasch Records

By: Victor Van Ommen

 Elektrohasch is a German based record label run by the one and only Stefan Koglek of the almighty Colour Haze. The label’s beginnings date back at least fifteen to twenty years, somewhere around the turn of the century. Since then, Elektrohasch released records by bands who were part of a (European) post-Kyuss movement like Ugh!, Los Natas, and Gas Giant. All of these bands spent their time on Elektrohasch laying down songs with heavy, grungy riffing with a thick low end which resulted in albums that now, years later, are regarded as gems of the scene.

In an effort to shine a light on where the label stands today, we here at The Sludgelord thought it would be a good idea to place three of Elektrohasch’s newest releases side by side in one review. These records are Ahkmed’s “The Inland Sea,” Saturnia’s “The Real High,” and Hidden Trails “Instant Momentary Bliss.” Each of these records tells a part of the Elektrohaschstory.

Ahkmed – “The Inland Sea”

Drone and psychedelics mix really well on Ahkmed’salbum “The Inland Sea.” There’s a hint of shoe gaze in the sound, which adds depth to the band’s otherwise consistent attack. Most of the songs rely on hypnotic, repetitive riffing, which is doused in a myriad of effects and distortions. The songs bleed into each other, making it difficult to pinpoint a standout moment. However, at five songs long that add up to an hour of mind-twisting instrumental rock, it’s fair to say that Ahkmedisn’t necessarily on the hunt for a catchy lick. Instead, Ahkmed seems to be on path to provide a listening experience. It’s this take on the craft that jives with Elektrohaschand as a result, “The Inland Sea” delivers breadth to the label’s sound and displays once again how far the world of psychedelics can go.

Band info: facebook

Saturnia – “The Real High”

What Saturnia and Ahkmed have in common is that they both provide the listener with an experience. Where Ahkmed reveled in a mess of guitars, Saturniaflies a gentler course. Saturnia’s new album, “The Real High” pretty much gives everything away with its title. The band creates smooth, textured music and does their best not to break a sweat. Despite Saturnia’stendency to drift off into space with mind, body, and soul, the band manages to keep things minimalistic. In some ways, Saturnia drones along like Ahkmed, but they do so with a sense of melody that is both gentle and welcoming as it is inoffensive. Saturniamight not be for everyone because of just how gentle their sound is, but the album is no less immersive. They go full on stoned and swim around in the listener’s psyche, which is an element found in many Elektrohasch releases. 

Band info: facebook

Hidden Trails – “Instant Momentary Bliss”

Where Ahkmed  and Saturnia dwell in a broad sound, Elektrohaschhas also released an album this year which is more precise and focused on “the song.” Psychedelic songwriting is a skill on its own. There needs to be a chorus, and this needs to be catchy. But the free-your-mind element to the music shouldn’t be forgotten, so the chorus needs to be balanced out by jams, swirls, synths, and a slew of other psychedelics. Hidden Trails have chosen to walk this line and have found a decent balance between the two. Their album “IMA” is therefore a mature listen, one that also dips into prog-rock territory, but because the band features old members of Hypnos69, this influence should come as a surprise to no one. In comparison to Ahkmedand Saturnia, Hidden Trails are less stoned but no less heady, which is an attribute of the psych rock genre that sometimes gets overlooked. Many think that psychedelic rock is only good when under the influence, but Hidden Trailsshows that even on a sober mind, a song can take the listener along for a wild, trippy ride. By providing a home for Hidden Trails, Elektrohasch continues their quest to represent every color of the psychedelic spectrum.

Band info: bandcamp || facebook

As a label, Elektohasch has as a goal to provide a warm home for psychonauts. Whether you’re a listener of the music or a master of the craft, Elektrohaschis the place to be if you’re into psychedelic rock. Having hosted debut albums by the likes of Causa Sui, All Them Witches, and the extremely underappreciated Kings of Frog Island, Elektrohaschhas proven time and time again that they are a front runner in the world of psychedelic rock. This year, with releases by Ahkmed, Saturnia, and Hidden Trails, Elektrohaschshows once again that they know their stuff.  Thanks to Elektrohaschfor sending us these CD’s, your contribution to the world of music doesn’t go unnoticed.

 

Label Info: official