I have started a new label specialising in cassette releases. The label is called XSPA… and stands for Xtra Sensory Perception of Accuracy. My aim is to give more exposure to artists that are true to themselves and create music from their heart.
All cassettes are handmade in Japan.
I have just released the second instalment from my label. An incredible artist who uses a Buchla and a Make Noise Black and Gold Shared System. He goes by the name of Thamel and I am rereleasing his first album - Duna - on cassette. I was over the moon when I contacted him and he agreed to do this.
Additionally to this announcement, I am looking for submissions from people who make music that is totally true to themselves. Any genre is welcomed. My first release was some very hard 140bpm stuff and the latest release is completely ambient.
Here is a link to the website;
Here is a link for Thamel;
He has been one of my favourite artist for a few years now.
The dude is insanely good. He’s a music teacher and plays guitar in a band; this is his other side. He is such a nice guy too. He’s always replied to me with details to any modular query I’ve inquired about.
Feels great too! I’ve always liked the sounds of things and cassette cases are one of them! Bought a few cassettes the other day and one of them didn’t open properly almost to the point of breaking. I smiled. I remembered how annoying that was back in the day. Today’s self sees the appreciation for such things. Nothings perfect and things can break. It reminded me how careful we have to be to keep the things we like.
Also, physically holding the music is a real experience. 20 years younger and I’m sure it would’ve been records that I would lean towards more.
Yeah man, s’all good. I’m using a Denon from ‘81 and a Marantz PMD740. Mainly just the Denon right now. Picked it up from a used goods store called… wait for it…
Nothing cassette is cost friendly. I will never make any money doing this. It would be nice sure, but it’s kinda fun when money isn’t a factor.
I remember when I volunteered to help youths in my local area. The people who were there as a job had little motivation and couldn’t wait to finish their day. As a volunteer, I was having so much fun I didn’t even look at the clock. Although it was a long time ago, that memory has stayed with me forever.
Oh I’m well aware of that, I used to do DIY tape dubbing myself about 20 years ago. But in those days I had tape machines and I lived in a big city in England.
Now I have no tape machine and live on a farm in Australia. The cost of postage here is insane.
Anyway, good stuff on your tape project! Enjoy, casettes are gorgeous things. Ive always been a fan of the magnetic sound.
Realliy? Oh cool. Any GS stuff in particular? I’ve drifted away from there if late to here and DOA , much nicer vibe and I love the DOA music and humour .
Loving what your doing and happy to collaborate on that new vapourware band ‘
Thanks a bunch. I made it to the post office straight after work to post this off for you. I hope you enjoy the cassette! Not sure where you will stick the surprise
