Melodies from jazz, rock, and avant-garde music are merging at the International Anthem, a varied fusion of genres.
Chicago's Music Renaissance: International Anthem Records is Bringing Fresh Perspectives to Iconic Sounds
Located in a city hailed as a global powerhouse for music production, revitalizing Chicago's music scene might seem like an impossible mission. This vibrant metropolis has absorbed the core elements of blues, rock, R&B, house, hip-hop, and, of course, jazz—the underlying thread that binds the diverse sonic tapestry of the local scene. Born in 2014, International Anthem Records is one such label taking up the mantle of Chicago's formidable musical heritage. In just over eight years, the indie record label has released nearly 50 albums, with an average quality of exceptional standards.
Headed by Scott McNiece, David Allen, and Dave Vettraino, the team behind International Anthem combines daring artistic decisions with accessible music, attracting listeners who may not necessarily identify as jazz aficionados. The label's approach mirrors the best traditions of alternative music, stemming from an entrepreneurial, passionate drive that has allowed International Anthem to carve out a niche for itself within the musical community, not just in the United States but globally.
Scott McNiece, the label's founder, took time out from his managerial duties to share insights into International Anthem's journey. With three new albums on the horizon and a new chapter to write in the annals of Chicago's music, McNiece's pioneering spirit shines.
The decision to found International Anthem in 2014 was the culmination of years of exploration and dedication. Started as a passion project, with its first publication marking the official launch, the label originated from McNiece's work as a promoter in the jazz and improvisation scene. Intrigued by the artists he encountered, McNiece invited his friends David Allen and Dave Vettraino—sound engineers and now partners in the label—to collaborate on recording the artistic residencies he organized. When the trio realized their recordings were of high quality, they decided to found a record label to publish them.
International Anthem's ethos focuses on bending and breaking genre boundaries, supporting artists' visions, and working closely with them from concept to completion. The label prides itself on publishing music that addresses the sociocultural concerns of the world and strives to reform the negative practices of the music industry and capitalism.
The label's catalog is a diverse mix of genres such as jazz, punk, rock, and experimentation. McNiece, Allen, and Vettraino share a "Do It Yourself" background, an ethos deeply ingrained in their work philosophy. They don't adhere strictly to the DIY model, but they do believe in the importance of anarchic principles and community-driven approaches. As listeners, they seek out music that feels authentic rather than being confined by genre labels.
International Anthem has made a substantial impact on Chicago's music scene by fostering innovation, promoting local talent, and facilitating cross-cultural exchange. By supporting experimental and avant-garde artists, it has contributed to Chicago's reputation as a hub for groundbreaking music. The label's platform has given local talent the opportunity to connect with wider audiences, nurturing a strong local music community. Furthermore, International Anthem has fostered cultural exchange by bringing artists from various parts of the world to collaborate with local musicians, enriching the musical landscape of the city.
Scott McNiece, the founder of International Anthem Records, noted that the label's focus on releasing music that addresses sociocultural concerns not only includes traditional jazz but also encompasses genres like punk and rock, making the label a hub for entertainment that goes beyond the traditional boundaries of jazz. International Anthem, with its innovative approach, is not only working to reform the negative practices within the music industry but also creating a space for the merge of various genres, fostering a vibrant and authentic music scene in Chicago and beyond.
