Independent’s Day

A ten part series exploring the role of Irish independent record labels in a much changed musical landscape. Produced by Alan Meaney, funded by the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland with the Television License Fee. Originally broadcast on RTÉ 2XM.

Art for Blind is an independent record label and distro started in 2004 in Barnsley, before relocating to Leeds, Cork and now based in Sligo, on the Atlantic northwest.

Word Up Collective bring together a number of artists who have been working independently and in existing groups to present a snap shot of Ireland’s burgeoning hip-hop and urban music scene. From rap to pop, soul to RnB and spoken word, they're all pushing boundaries individually and are coming together to take their work to even greater heights.

Homebeat has grown from the humble beginnings of a series of successful, local artist focused house concerts, to hold a heartfelt position in the Irish music scene as creators of innovative, atmosphere led music events across the country.

Raelach Records is an artist-run, traditional and folk record label based in county Clare, on the west coast of Ireland. The label was founded in 2011 by musician and producer Jack Talty.

Lyte Records is a label that focuses on hip hop, folk and classical, but mainly jazz. Based in Northern Ireland, it was founded by musician, songwriter and producer David Lyttle in 2007.

Rusted Rail is a Micro-Independent record label based in Galway. Founded by Keith Wallace in 2006, it releases alternative folk, post-rock and psych music. Yawning Chasm is Galway folk singer Aaron Coyne. He describes the differences between releasing his music himself on Bandcamp and on Rusted Rail. Music from Cubs is also heard on this episode.

Strange Brew was originally set up as a club night in Galway’s Roisin Dubh in 2002. It has grown into an artist management, booking agent and record label.

Farpoint Recordings was founded in 2004, as an artist-run creative project that seeks to publish works from the margins. The label releases sound art, electronica and electroacoustic music.

Rua Sound is a record label focused on the rhythm and sounds joining the worlds of Jungle, Hip-Hop, Footwork, Drum & Bass and Grime. It was set up by 2 Irish DJs, producers and promoters, Welfare and Rob DC.

Out on a Limb Records are one of the longest running indie labels in Ireland. Started in Limerick in 2003, there are twelve (reasonably) active acts on the label, ranging from folk to indie/ alt-rock to progressive metal.