There are two sorts of record label. One is usually owned by a Pet Food conglomerate, fixated on making tills ring in Woolworths. The other is just as obsessed, but with making records that give someone, somewhere, that "this is special" feeling. Can you guess which Invicta Hi-Fi is? A sister to the Liquidation clubnights, Invicta helmsmen Jules and Danny apply the same musical policy to the records they release as the records they play - a feel rather than a format. "Valid tunes for valid people" laughs Jules. "Someone said we're an indie label with a major scope - and an international feel." Being in Liverpool - and away from the London scene - has given Invicta the space to develop on its own terms. This year's Special Skool compilation was a statement of intent. Showcasing attitude rather than "a sound", it quickly won over many supporters, including Radio One's ridiculously gaunt Steve Lamacq. Jules wasn't surprised at the reaction: "We knew it was something special. I still listen to it now, and there's not a duff track on it." Amongst the responses came demo tapes from places as exotic as Kirkby and Japan, some of which will be forming the basis of a 'Back to Skool' release in the future. Meanwhile, Invicta is developing an impressive roster. Ladytron - the electronic Abba - even now have a two girl, two boy line up: Bulgarian Mira adding her slant to the vocals. New stuff is promised soon. And Hayleys Cake continues to rise. Like a Kenickie who've gone to the dark side, with an obvious star in singer Lucy, Jules hopes that band and label can grow together: "There's no reason why they shouldn't sell a million." The pipeline continues to flow - DHK's Girlarella should be the next single, while Danny is keen to work with Kling Klang. So, what labels does Jules rate? "Early Creation. Warp covers all bases; Skint..." Skint are the new sponsors of Brighton & Hove Albion - so will we ever see a team running out with 'Invicta Hi-Fi' across their chests? Jules considers. "Been done. We'll probably sponsor the Guinans pinball team..." |
Related Links |