Here is the first in series of interviews I was planning to do. As you can see, I will try to stick to 5 questions only. Why? Because I will interview some of these guys again soon and because I'd like others to be encouraged to ask further questions.
Scott Bishop has been running HRP for a while now. You can check HRP myspace HERE. But for you who don't know, HRP is an independent label ran by Scott and his misterious friend. They have released 6 cool albums/EPs so far and many more to come. But, enough of that, do your own research. Here we go:
I believe the decision to start HRP was made on a drunken NY eve 2008. At that time did you think it will be something you will still be running it strong in 2010? What was the prime motif to start the label?
Yes, like all crazy decisions the idea to start a 'label' was planned out over too many beers! At the time it was planned to be a one off release and then maybe a few shirt designs. We had no idea it would still be running two years later, but we had no idea to start with, so it balances out.
What are some of the criterias in deciding which band/act to publish? Have you ever experienced any significant difficulties in dealing with the bands and have you ever had cold feet about any of your releases?
There is no set criteria really, all the HRP crew (myself and the mysterious Ninnanuam) come from a heavy metal background, so we generally like things a little harsher sonically, or at least having a 'dark undercurrent'. All the bands/solo artists we have released are all good people and friends and have demonstrated a good 'work ethic' so to speak. For any bands interested in dealing with us, we accept bags of cash and/or good sandwiches.
We have never had cold feet on any of our projects based on the sounds, more to do with deadlines approaching. Getting the finished products on time for launch shows etc. All the bands have been great and we work together to try and promote the music.
How different is HRP from other independent Perth/Australian labels? Do you feel like you are creating a particular "scene" with your acts or do you see them as all different? Would you rather have similar acts or variety of them?
Hmm, we are not so different from many other labels in Perth, they are all doing great and unique things. We like to try and have some nice packaging as opposed to digital downloads and musically we like the harsher sounds. I dont think we are creating a 'scene', its already there and thriving, we are just trying to boost it and provide a platform for cool sounds. I think HRP has many different styles/genres and will continue to be diverse, until we sell out and start marketing to the hipsters.
So far almost all of the bands/acts have been from Perth. Which other local and international bands would you like to see released on HRP in future?
Aha! Bariken are from Japan (minus 1 point for you), we are also soon releasing a split tape between Chris Cobils and PSYCHEDELIC DESERT (also from Japan). Theres a LOT of cool music from Perth and it is easy to get in touch with people here. That being said, we are planning more releases from Perth and maybe a few from overseas/interstate. Coming up is the aforementioned split tape, split 12" Abe Sada/Sub Ordnance, Injured Ninja cd, smRts cd and releases from Armadillo Overlord (drone/doom) and Salamander (harsh electronic sounds).
Are there any labels that you admire and why?
I admire all the independant labels in Perth that have come before and after us such as Meupe, Badminton Bandit, Grave New World and Prime Cuts. Internationally we like Hydra Head, Relapse and Ipecac for their commitment to heavy/weird sounds and quality releases.
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