Free Music Downloads: 5 Independent Netlabels
Netlabels: A Digital Revolution in Music Distribution
Netlabels represent a novel approach to music distribution, functioning as online record labels. Their primary method of delivery centers around digital audio formats like MP3, Ogg Vorbis, and WAV.
A defining characteristic of netlabels is their frequent offering of music at no cost. This is often facilitated through the use of Creative Commons licenses, granting users specific permissions regarding usage.
Genre Specialization within the Netlabel Landscape
Similar to conventional record labels, netlabels typically focus on specific musical genres. This allows them to cultivate a dedicated audience and build a recognizable brand.
Electronic music styles have historically found a strong foothold within the netlabel community. This is potentially due to the challenges faced by these genres in achieving widespread commercial success through traditional channels.
A Diverse Range of Genres
The netlabels discussed here showcase a broad spectrum of musical offerings. Genres represented include not only electronic music, but also punk, metal, hip hop, and even classical compositions.
This diversity demonstrates the adaptability and inclusive nature of the netlabel model. It provides a platform for artists across various musical disciplines to share their work.
Mine All Mine Records: A Deep Dive
Genres encompassing the label’s output include ambient, electronic, folk, and post-rock music.
Mine All Mine Records was established in 2006 by John Kruse, initially as a platform for distributing limited-edition releases of his personal musical projects.
A pivotal shift occurred in 2007 when Kruse made his music freely available on Archive.org. This was followed in 2008 by the commencement of publishing works created by a diverse range of other artists.
Throughout its operational history, Mine All Mine Records has collaborated with more than eighty different artists, showcasing a commitment to independent music.
The label recently celebrated a significant milestone with the release of their 200th publication – a compilation album.
This latest compilation notably features the contributions of nearly thirty distinct artists.
Featured Release
Recommended album for exploration is Mine All Mine Two Hundred, released by Mine All Mine Records themselves.
Lepork Records
Genre: punk.
Lepork Records is dedicated to showcasing exceptional punk bands operating outside of the mainstream music industry. This netlabel actively champions underground artists globally.
Extensive Catalog
To date, Lepork Records has distributed a catalog exceeding 30 full-length albums. This demonstrates their commitment to supporting the punk scene.
Featured Release
The album Last One Standing, released by The Leftouts, is a particularly noteworthy offering from Lepork Records. It has achieved significant popularity, accumulating over 20,000 downloads.
Recommended album: Last One Standing by The Leftouts.
This album is highly recommended for fans of underground punk music. It represents the quality and energy that Lepork Records consistently delivers.
Asiluum – A Netlabel Focused on Metal Genres
Genres represented within the Asiluum catalog include metal, black metal, post metal, death metal, industrial, and grindcore.
The Asiluum Model
The primary form of currency utilized by Asiluum is listener attention. Music released through this netlabel is distributed under a Creative Commons Music Sharing License. This license specifically prohibits any form of commercial exploitation.
Beyond distribution, Asiluum actively supports its artists. The netlabel provides assistance in securing studio resources and facilitating the recording process for new music.
Featured Release
A highly recommended album from the Asiluum catalog is "Mad Man Circus" by White Walls.
Another notable release by Whitewalls is titled "...Into The Water".
Circle Into Square [No Longer Available]
Genres represented by this label include pop, folk, ambient, electronic, and hip hop.
Circle Into Square operates not solely as a netlabel; they also distribute music through physical formats like CD, cassette, and vinyl, alongside digital releases.
This label, managed by volunteers, is located in Portland, Oregon. It functions as an online storefront for Fake Four, Inc.
While the majority of their catalog is offered for purchase, select albums are available for free download upon providing an email address.
Recommended Release
A highly recommended album from Circle Into Square is Compilation Vol. 2.
SHSK'H
Genres featured on this label include classical and instrumental music.
SHSK'H is a netlabel originating from New York, established in 2007. It was founded by Jody Pou and Igor Balleraeau, both musicians themselves.
Initially, the label served as a platform for releasing the founders’ own compositions. However, it quickly expanded its scope to encompass and promote the creative endeavors of other artists.
All music distributed through SHSK'H is made available under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial 3.0 United States License. This allows for widespread sharing while protecting the artists’ commercial rights.
Recommended Album
A highly recommended album from SHSK'H is "Solo Viola d'Amore" by Garth Knox. It showcases the unique and expressive capabilities of the viola d'amore.
Discover more free, independent music albums by checking out our weekly Sound Sunday feature. Further exploration can be found through these related articles:
- 5 Resources Used To Find Free MP3 Albums For Sound Sunday
- Top 10 Free Ways To Discover New Music Online
- If You Are A Music Lover,Try Out Flowd To Catch The Latest On Musical Events & Artists
- Top 4 Sites To Download Karaoke Music Without Words To Test Your Singing Ability
- The 3 Best Free Classical Music Download Sites
We invite you to share your own netlabel recommendations. What is your preferred method for discovering new independent music?
Image Credits:Aaron Amat
