Record labels that maintain a consistent look and feel have long enjoyed a competitive advantage over more free-spirited imprints. That’s more true than ever, given how easy it’s become to launch an independent label. If there is a formula for building a successful music brand, it almost certainly involves consistent quality and an identifiable sound.
Phantom Limb is a beautiful exception. A year shy of its 10th anniversary, the Brighton-based label run by James Vella and Ken Li has earned a loyal following with releases spanning electronic, ambient, hip hop, folk and even dance music. Vella and Li tie it all together with a healthy embrace of indie culture and electronic music production.
A new Phantom Limb release is always worth a listen, and always worth considering in the context of the label’s broader catalogue.
The new one from Kent Watari is a welcome addition. The sound artist’s debut for the label is subtraction in spiral, a headphone treat that “employs information-overload polyrhythm and nano-particles of electrical impulse to mimic minute neuro-existential events.”
The result is both engaging and mildly unsettling. If you spend a lot of time listening to music like this, you’ve probably come to appreciate its lack of linearity. If you haven’t, listen in — Watari’s work is a prime example of how sound art reflects the world we live in.
More new music
Noémi Büchi – Exuvie: I’ve been a fan since interviewing Büchi in 2024, so I won’t pretend to be uninvested in her success. But as her work grows increasing grand and moving, I can’t help but marvel at her vision and execution. This third album is another step forward for the Swiss/French composer and sound artist. I don’t know if she will be the one to break electroacoustic music out of its academic box, but no one’s coming closer.
Asher Gamedze – A Semblance: Of Return: This week’s stand-out jazz release comes from the South African drummer and bandleader. He describes his compositions as rooted in pan-Africanism and Black consciousness. There’s also a spiritual jazz feel here that complements the work beautifully.
Gabriel Prokofiev feat. FAMES European Youth Orchestra, Etienne Abelin & Viviana-Zarah Baudis – Dark Lights: New music from the London-based composer, DJ and Nonclassical record label founder. This one pairs orchestral performances with modular synthesizers and 808 beats. NWAKKE, Adhelm and Nicholas Thayer add remixes.
The Moderns 