Focus Point: Vandal Records Highlighted
Vandal Records: A Pioneering Drum and Bass Label in Toulouse
Vandal Records, a renowned drum and bass label based in Toulouse, France, has carved out a reputation for its vibrant collaborations and events within the drum and bass community. The label, which was founded by Julien in 2004 [2], is known for its commitment to promoting drum and bass culture through immersive live events and releases that support both established and up-and-coming artists [1].
Vandal Records' community engagement is evident in its partnerships with other labels and sound systems. Recent collaborations with Flexout Audio and Scotland Yard Sound System in Bristol and Toulouse underscore the label's progressive and community-focused ethos [1][5].
The label's connection to Toulouse is strong, as it contributes to the local and broader European drum and bass scene. Notably, Le Bikini and its drum & bass nights have played a significant role in the Toulouse drum and bass scene [8]. The city's vibrant drum and bass scene is home to artists like Burr Oak, Redpill, Forum, Tryst Temps, Love The End, Redeyes, Trail, Monty, Broma, Fakt, and Visages [9].
Vandal Records' sound is eclectic, representing various music vibes from deep and liquid to more techy and harder sounds [6]. Artists releasing music on Vandal Records this year include Fre4knc, Klippee, Morrow, Love The End, Subliminal, Objectiv, Minor Forms, Broma, Fakt, and new Toulouse talent [10].
In addition to his work with Vandal Records, Julien is involved in two projects: Broma with Tryst Temps and Forum with The Clamps and Opsen [7]. The label is also collaborating with a UK-based label on a joint album and tour featuring artists from both labels' catalogues [11].
The 20 Years Of Vandal Records LP is currently available on 3×12" vinyl gatefold and digital format [3]. Running a bass music label in 2024 requires a lot of time and dedication [12]. The A&R process at Vandal Records involves listening to demos, discovering new talent, and collaborating with artists to ensure a good fit with the label's sound and visual identity [13].
Vandal Records focuses on drum and bass music for the dancefloor, showcasing both established and up-and-coming artists [4]. The label's origin story involves a collaboration with a hard techno tribe called Fox Tanz [14].
In the summer of 2024, The Modern Soul LP is scheduled for release, followed by regular artist releases throughout the rest of the year [1]. The birthday party for Vandal Records will take place at Le Bikini in Toulouse on September 7, featuring a lineup of artists from the album [15].
References:
- Vandal Records
- Julien
- 20 Years Of Vandal Records
- Vandal Records on Soundcloud
- Vandal Records x Flexout Audio x Scotland Yard Sound System
- Vandal Records' Sound
- Julien's Projects
- Le Bikini
- Toulouse Drum and Bass Artists
- Artists Releasing Music on Vandal Records in 2024
- Vandal Records Collaboration with UK Label
- Running a Bass Music Label
- A&R Process at Vandal Records
- Vandal Records Origin Story
- Vandal Records Birthday Party
- Vandal Records, known for its commitment to drum and bass culture, has also ventured into music releases that showcase various vibes, including those suitable for the dance floor.
- In addition to the diverse music releases, Vandal Records frequently collaborates with other labels and sound systems, such as Flexout Audio and Scotland Yard Sound System, to organise immersive live events in Toulouse and Bristol.