So why do we do what we do?
About the label and the ideas behind it
Paradigms Recordings was launched on New Year's Day, 2006, with the release of a limited edition, specially packaged cd from Amber Asylum. The idea on which the label was founded hasn't changed to this day. And that idea was to develop a pure, eclectic yet focused record label outside of the standard confines of the regular label model, that reflected the musical and aesthetic vision of it's founder.
The reason to release each Paradigms cd as a limited edition was twofold - obviously to create something special to hold in your hands, but as we are a mailorder / internet based label that bypasses traditional distribution, then we're unlikely to be receiving any gold discs anytime soon. So a small, limited run of cds suits us just fine.
Aesthetically, Paradigms releases are now presented in special gatefold cardboard digi-paks rather than the earlier hand stamped envelope or dvd box editions - this transition was to move away from the misconception of Paradigms as a purely collectors label of sorts. We are also very aware of the environmental costs of plastic cd packaging so recently we have moved to sustainable materials for as much of our presentation as we can. Paradigms is a fiercely band orientated label and more time is now dedicated release by release with each band to developing beautiful cover artwork, booklets and packaging unique to each album.
Musically, Paradigms has always had it's roots firmly placed in the furthest reaches of the experimental / avantgarde metal world, however that has never stopped us from venturing far and wide to release what we feel to be the most exciting, interesting and vibrant underground music. Paradigms is an idealistic proposition. Whether it be forward-thinking metal, kosmische electronica, folk, astral ambient, sombre nocturnal songcraft, cutting edge black metal, lush "post-rock" or our life-long infatuation with 4AD Records and Swedish Death Metal, it will always have an important place here. It makes complete sense to us and it is very nice that it also makes sense to small collection of people dotted around the globe.
So as long as we're unearthing new, esoteric music and there are a few people interested in hearing what we do, then long shall Paradigms continue, along whatever path we decide to venture...
