A new independent record label has been introduced as a joint venture between leading electronic producer Matthew Herbert and the renowned music department at Goldsmiths.
NXRecords promises to “showcase the finest new music’’ coming out of the New Cross and Deptford area.
Herbert, also know as Doctor Rockit, Radio Boy, Mr. Vertigo, Transformer, and Wishmountain is the founder of Accidental Records and has worked with major artists such as REM, Björk, Róisín Murphy, Serge Gainsbourg and John Cale.
Herbert’s work with Goldsmiths began in 2008 at the London Jazz Festival when the college’s vocal ensemble performed alongside his band. He has also taught student workshops and produced the debut album for alumnus Sam Beste, whose band Hejira has shared the stage with the likes of Amy Winehouse and Tom Jones.
The popular music BA at Goldsmiths has been celebrated for producing artists such as Mercury Prize nominees Katy B and James Blake.
“Even if you haven’t flicked through the prospectus for Goldsmiths’ Popular Music course, you’ll be well aware of some of its alumni”, wrote Fact Magazine.
NXRecords tested the waters in February by showing off some of its talent to the public with a party at St. James’ Church in New Cross.
Ruthie Woodward, label representative, said, “It was so exciting to see this project get under way and the reaction we had was really positive. It was just a little taster as well, we have so much more to come”.
Featuring sets ranging from techno to ambient, the event represented a budding New Cross and Deptford music scene, which TimeOut’s latest ‘Rock ’n’ Roll’ issue called “spooky, wobbly computerized digital indie weirdness – but with soul”.
It said: “South London bass-consciousness meets east London weirdness in Deptford, a place that’s been the next big thing for so long that it’s finally decided to ignore its own hype”.
Artists such as James Blake, Deptford Goth, Thefft and King Krule have helped create the area’s distinct identity.
Little information has been released about NXRecords, which has yet to be officially launched, but Hugh Jones of Accidental Records has told EastLondonLines that more light will be shed on upcoming projects in the coming fortnight.
