"It’s incredibly fulfilling to support a band at the Moth Club level and eventually see them headline Barcelona’s Primavera Festival." How has the role of indie labels evolved since City Slang was established? Well, I recently heard that Universal now refers to themselves as an indie label. Moreover, if you glance at the “Indie” playlists on digital music platforms, you’ll find that the top ten acts are typically signed to Sony, Warner, or Universal. Therefore, we need a new term to describe what we do and who we are, because those corporations wouldn’t be where they are without us. We serve as their testing ground and learning platform. However, the term “independent” has lost its meaning. Additionally, in the past, bands would sign with major labels due to the inability of smaller labels to effectively distribute their music. That’s no longer the case; today, the indie label sector is flourishing with some truly exceptional and established companies like Sub Pop, Domino, Beggars, Secretly, Partisan, and Mute. What are you most looking forward to in 2025? I’m excited to witness Lambrini Girls’ ongoing success this year! Anna B Savage has a fantastic new album scheduled for release at the end of January. McKinley Dixon’s second album on City Slang will be released later this year, and I’ve heard almost the complete project—it’s stunning! Sprints are also entering the studio for their second album, and I can’t wait to see what they create! If you could reissue any classic album on City Slang, which would it be and why? I would have to choose 'Goat' by The Jesus Lizard—it stands in a class of its own. Everything came together perfectly to create something timeless: the ideal band with the perfect songs and the perfect producer (Albini). Go find it and play it REALLY LOUD! What is one piece of advice about running a label that you would give to your younger self? Hey, you, youthful fool! While your enthusiasm and dedication are commendable, you should seek out legitimate business advice from someone knowledgeable! You’re managing a business! Accept it! It’ll be beneficial! Find out more about City Slang at shop.cityslang.com.
The album will feature his earlier singles ‘Silverlines’ and ‘Born With A Broken Heart’.
Icelandic indie folk artist Arny Margret guides us through her deeply moving second album, ‘I Miss You, I Do,’ exploring each track. This work is intimate, delicate, and ambitiously bold, embracing a broader sound while maintaining its raw emotional essence.
It may be a significant advancement for Cleopatrick, but they're just a few minor steps from achieving it.
A monumental work of art.
Chicago-based artist Madame Reaper presents her essay, ‘Not Your Mother’s Women’s History Month,’ discussing how artists, music enthusiasts, and the broader community should take action during this time, as part of Atwood Magazine's Women's History Month series!
Benson Boone embarks on a new phase of his music career with “Sorry I’m Here for Someone Else,” an energetic pop-rock anthem that marks a lively, positive shift after the worldwide success of his debut single, “Beautiful Things.”
A monthly emphasis on the essential components of the exciting new music scene.