The diverse signings feature London based urban ska-punk band Popes of Chillitown, rising Sheffield indie artist Lori Forster of Weekend Recovery, flamenco punk-glam band Gypsy Pistoleros, introspective bedroom-pop singer-songwriter Mike Walsh, The Last Siren's alt.rock writer Jayke Turl and flamboyant Welsh disco-punkers Stickman. The label's founder, The Kut, is also part of the publishing roster; her UK Number 1 Rock Album 'GRIT' playing an essential role in the North American deal.
Talbot announced "I'm pleased to be part of the Criminal family and look forward to being able to support and promote the artists. I hope to see them perform in Southern California soon."
The move represents the next step in Criminal Records' mission to empower independent artists. "We are thrilled to be working together with Purley Sounds LLC, run by Gerard Talbot, and know this deal represents a major milestone for Criminal Records' commitment to our artists' creative vision," said Lisa Knight, PR Coordinator at Criminal Records. "Gerard has a wealth of experience and expertise, not least from his roles at Virgin, Astralwerks and with artists including Chemical Brothers, Fatboy Slim and Basement Jaxx. We are beyond excited to work together to bring our imprint to new audiences in North America."
Criminal Records has pledged to support its roster with navigating the complex worlds of copyright, royalty collection and music licensing with a view to fostering collaborations. Finding themselves an expanding market in the states, label artists featured on Sirius XM, College and Independent Radio Charts and with music videos broadcast on major channels including LATV and AXS TV.
Criminal Records is also inviting additional artists and collaborators to join the ranks; "we're open to hear from artists and teams who are ready to join us in breaking down the gates".
The deal follows on from a US distribution deal The Kut signed for the label at the end of 2021 moving US operations from the label's West London Cartel Studios to a 700,000 square-foot warehouse backed by Amplified Distribution and in partnership with the world's most powerful wholesaler, Alliance Entertainment as well as AMPED and MNRK.
