A new record label is joining the music scene in the Smithers area with several local artists already on board.
Understory Records is a partnership between musician Naomi Kavka and journalist Pamela Haasen, combining their experience to produce and distribute vinyl records for local musicians.
“It was Kavka’s idea from the onset and when she asked me if I wanted to [join her], the answer was a very easy yes because we both still listen to vinyl so that felt really natural,” said Haasen.
“There’s something about those old ways of experiencing music like putting on the radio and having songs played for you or getting a record and putting it on,” Kavka said.
The label’s first release is set to be a compilation of eleven artists from northern B.C. and Yukon which is set to be released on February 28th.
Included on the record are:
- High Bush Caribou
- Puddy Waters
- Jordy Walker
- Scouts Honour
- Elijah Quinn
- Pitted
- EARTHXSTAR
- Sarah Northcott
- Wedgewood
- deathanol
- Urchin
Kavka said the label is focusing on vinyl releases because streaming has the artist paying someone else to distribute the music.
“It’s just this big, industrial churning machine that I don’t find any joy in being involved in, and I know I’m not alone in that as an artist,” she added.
Another reason Kavka and Haasen wanted to go with physical releases is to make shopping for local music easier.
Both said reaction to the label being announced has been positive both by artists and the community.
A surprise for them was how quickly artists were reaching out to try and get onto a second compilation when it comes out.
“I thought it would take longer for more people to get excited or see the avenue for how it would work for them, and it feels like people are seeing it very naturally,” said Haasen.
Along with releasing records, they hope to expand into helping further promote artists in the area and help with applying for grants.
Right now, the two are focusing on its first compilation release with an event being hosted to launch the label.
It’s happening at Smithers Brewing Company on February 28th with tickets available at the brewery.
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