Back in the day, I worked with big record labels and worked closely with some pretty successful commercial producers, including many pop, hip-hop, and rock groups. The demos we received were not necessarily dance music-oriented, but many were beautifully done and catered more to home listening. Now that I’ve started my new label, METAPHYSICAL, it feels great to have such freedom of choice. 

I think part of the reason I started a label of my own is that I missed working closely and intensively with artists, exchanging ideas, and getting into deep discussions about concepts and direction. Essentially, Metaphysical will be more of an album imprint, meaning close interactions between the record company and the producer/artist/performer. I think the best results appear in creative teamwork.

As for the direction, I will always follow my gut feeling. There has to be chemistry between both myself and the artist. I should be able to share the vision of the artist and help them to achieve their goals. Style-wise, there will always be some electronic aspect, but I am looking for real songs, instruments, singers, and whatever else is needed to transport a feeling or mood. Here are ten tracks that have helped inform my new label’s process.

METAPHYSICAL’s debut single “Best Of Me” by ARTBAT and Sailor & I is out now. 

Maribou State – Glasshouses

I’ve been a long term fan of the UK duo Maribou State. This is the kind of group I am dreaming of signing one day. How they use melodies is so special. They are very prominent in the song, but never too much — my kind of ‘pop’ music.

Lena Platonos – Bloody Shadows From Afar

I always liked the Greek language, but how it sounds here is the best. No idea what she is talking about, but it sounds like it’s from a different planet. Just one of the vibes I could see the label present as well.

Henna Onna – Delusion

That was a demo sent to me a couple of months ago, and I immediately fell in love. We released it on Kindisch, but it’s also a vibe that we could include on Metaphysical. And it’s the artist’s first record!

Moderat – Ghostmother

No introduction is needed here. This song is sung so beautifully. Moderat is pure bliss through and through.

LTO – Change

I get involved with a lot of ambient music. Brian Eno’s Music for Airports was a significant milestone for me, and I want to showcase this kind of music on Metaphysical as well. Anthony from Audiofly is just about to finish an ambient album, and I think we will work together and release his second album effort.

Sophia Saze – Fall (feat. Iro)

Again, another song where I like the vibes from start to finish. Sophia is usually a techno artist, but that is the beauty of this track. The exploration of different styles is something that I’ve always held an immense amount of respect for. 

El Buho – Al Tianguis

Just a song I never get tired of hearing. It works in all situations, and it sounds so simple, but that’s beauty and the art of music.

Caribou – Melody Day (Four Tet Remix)

Dan Snaith is such a great musician and producer. I’ve been a huge fan of his for many years, even more so of his side project, Daphni. Also, Four Tet is, of course, one of a kind. His music is diverse and memorable, and I’d be remiss to leave out the fact that he’s one of my all-time favorite producers! 

Leifur James – Argonaut

Leifur James’ music is so distinct and impressive that you can’t help but fall in love with it (and to it). I can listen to tunes like this 24 hours a day without being bored. There are so many levels to his songwriting ability — another example for a musician that I’d be very proud to present on the label.

Flying Lotus – Golden Axe (Maida Vale Session)

You’d be hard-pressed to find a music lover these days who does not know and appreciate the work of Flying Lotus. He’s just a fantastic musician and a curious man. I love everything about this project and how he approaches his artistic process.