Highlight of the Label: Vandal Records
Vandal Records: Pioneering the French Drum and Bass Scene
Vandal Records, a renowned drum and bass music label based in Toulouse, France, has been a significant player in the French electronic music scene since its inception in 2004. Founded by Julien SKS and a hard techno tribe called Fox Tanz, Vandal Records has carved out a unique niche for itself by embracing a musical journey that encompasses deep and liquid sounds, as well as the harder, techier beats.
The label's ethos revolves around innovation and artistic integrity within the realm of drum and bass. It's known for taking risks to nurture new talent, as well as for releasing more established producers. The label's releases are accompanied by distinctive artwork and design, each one featuring unique and eye-catching visuals.
In 2024, the label continues to thrive, with a roster of talented artists that includes Fre4knc, Klippee, Morrow, Love The End, Subliminal, Objectiv, Minor Forms, Broma, and new Toulouse talent Fakt. The Toulouse drum and bass scene is vibrant, with artists like Burr Oak (The Clamps & Opsen), Redpill, Forum, Tryst Temps, Love The End, Redeyes, Trail, Monty, Broma, Fakt, and Visages contributing to its diversity.
This year, Vandal Records released the 20 Years Of Vandal Records LP on 3×12" vinyl gatefold and digital formats. The label is also working on a collaboration album and tour with a UK-based label, although details are yet to be revealed.
Julien SKS, the man behind Vandal Records, is also a DJ and producer, involved in two projects: Broma with Tryst Temps and Forum with The Clamps and Opsen. Artists like Objectiv, Minor Forms, Kublai, Motiv, Broma (Tryst Temps and Julien SKS's project), Arclight, and DJ Madd are regular contributors to the label.
In addition to releasing music, Vandal Records also hosts events and showcases for drum and bass artists, helping to support and promote the scene both in France and internationally. The label's sound is eclectic, representing different music vibes that can be heard in various settings, from cars to offices to dance floors.
The A&R process at Vandal Records involves listening to demos and promos, speaking with artists about their releases, and ensuring that both the music and artwork meet the expectations of both the artist and the label. The label focuses on releasing drum and bass music aimed at the dancefloor from both established and up-and-coming artists.
The future looks bright for Vandal Records, with the Modern Soul LP scheduled for this summer and regular artist releases planned for the end of the year. The birthday party for Vandal Records will take place at the Bikini in Toulouse on September 7, featuring artists from the album. The label continues to push boundaries and support the underground drum and bass scene, making it a force to be reckoned with in the world of electronic music.
Vandal Records, known for its groundbreaking drum and bass music releases, is also involved in the creation of a collaboration album and tour with a UK-based label. The label's sound extends beyond dance floors, finding a home in various settings such as cars, offices, and entertainment spaces.
With an eclectic roster of artists like Fre4knc, Klippee, and new Toulouse talent Fakt, Vandal Records continues to nurture new talent and release music that embodies their ethos of innovation and artistic integrity within the drum and bass genre. Whether it's accompanied by distinctive artwork or showcased at an event, the label's commitment to the scene is evident.
