Montréal-based imprint Strange Town Recordings kicks off 2016 with the return of label stalwart PHM. The Bulgarian producer stole the spotlight last year with a stellar outing on Traum Schallplatten along with features on labels such as Wide Angle Recordings and Stripped Recordings. His new two track EP ‘Fade Away’ marks his fifth appearance with the Canadian outfit, which is also provides a home to the likes of Groj, Matador, Philip James de Vries and Teej.
Ahead of the release, we were joined by the big bossman at Strange Town, better known to friends and family as Bryan Wolfear. Bryan took us behind the metaphorical curtain at the imprint sharing his passions, his process and much more, while also sharing an exclusive full stream of lead track ‘Fade Away’.
WWD: Thanks for taking the time to chat Bryan! For our readers, can you introduce yourself and your role at Strange Town?
Hello and my pleasure WWD and readers! Born and raised in the city, I’m a proud Montreal Native. Owner of Canadian record label Strange Town Recordings and Strange Town Entertainment.
WWD: Talk us through the moment you decided to create the label.
I always had a passion for underground electronic music. In the early 2000’s I started buying and spinning records and taking an interest in following some of my favourite labels, Bedrock, SAW and Audio Therapy… to name a few. 2007 I began helping a friend, Blake Sutherland, pushing his label Wide Angle Recordings. This is when I started thinking about launching my own label. 2010 Strange Town Recordings was born.
WWD: What sort of work went into getting the project off the ground?
It started with a visit to Toronto for an underground party run by local event organizers Milkrun. This is where I had the pleasure of meeting and speaking with Canadian artist Jesse Somfay (Flourish) about my vision and approached him with the idea of doing the first release. Help didn’t stop there, Blake Sutherland (WA) assisted with the creation of the logo and putting me in touch with Manual Distribution (NL). Once, things set in motion the rest just flowed.
WWD: What do you look for in an artist and their productions when making a decision to sign a release?
When starting a new project I’m selective. It’s about who strikes a chord, their passion, sound and musical direction. I’m open to blending techno, progressive with element of trance making each release diverse and unique.
WWD: Is there a particular philosophy behind the imprint?
Keep’in it strange, putting quality releases together with an edge is our MO!
WWD: Can you tell us about some of the key artists that have featured on the label?
Strange Town features some amazing artists including Groj, PHM, Flowers and Sea Creatures, Dustin Nanatis, Michael A, Deepfunk, Phil James De Vries… The roster continues to expand.
WWD: What can you tell us about the new release from PHM?
The new release from PHM is a monster two track EP, pure quality as always, gaining early support from the likes of Olivier Weiter, Nick Warren, Soul Button and Darin Epsilon. It marks his 5th EP on the label and holds him steady as one of our primary artists.
WWD: What are the three most important things you’ve learned as a label head?
Consistency. Always putting out exceptional releases. Working with high profile artists sets you apart. I only choose those whom I feel would best fit the project.
WWD: How would you view the current health of the scene in Montreal?
Montreal is doing great these days! As a promoter, I remember 10 years ago you’d struggled to get 20 of your friends out to a night. Nowadays with multiple collectives and promoters, like 8day, Front Rite, NEON, La Bacchanale and my Strange Town Entertainment, its not uncommon to have 3-4 good events happening on the same night.
WWD: 3 local artists we should look out for in 2016?
There a a lot of talented artists these days it’s hard to pick just three, but I’d keep my eye on Flowers and Sea Creatures, Van Did and Groj. These guys will do some damage this year!
WWD: What do you hope defines the next five years of Strange Town?
I’d like to sign even more high profile artists to the label and gain wider International recognition and followers. I’m looking forward to attending and networking at ADE (Amsterdam Dance Event) in October.
WWD: What else can we expect from you guys over the coming months?
You can expect to hear some really exciting releases off the label along with more International bookings featured on our monthly label night ‘Strange Days, Vibrant Nights’ at Le Salon Daome, Montreal.
Follow: Strange Town // PHM