[PIAS] & Astral People Launch New Label; Announce First Signing

After managing the likes of Cosmo's Midnight and Winston Surfshirt and touring Stormzy, Snakehips and more over the past eight years, Astral People has joined forces with [PIAS] and Inertia to launch a new label.

Astral People Recordings will represent local and international artists and will fall under the co-op model that currently houses MUTE, Bella Union, Transgressive and more.

“We’ve never been a company that’s been pigeonholed into a certain genre and we certainly won’t be with this label,” Astral People’s Vichara Edirisinghe and Tom Huggett said.

“However, what we can say is that the artists we choose to represent will be ones of the highest calibre and an exciting prospect in their respective genre or scene. The label will represent artists that we truly feel will last the test of time in this forever changing business, and we are incredibly proud to align ourselves with such a leading voice in independent music, along some of our favourite in the co-op model.”

[PIAS] Group Managing Director Edwin Schroter added: “I am thrilled that Astral People is joining our worldwide roster of outstanding independent labels. Vic and Tom have built something very special in Australia and their entrepreneurial drive, A&R instinct and international outlook make them a perfect fit for our Cooperative label offering. 

“We are proud that they have chosen [PIAS] as a global partner for their new label venture and we can’t wait to start working together on the exciting new artist roster they are developing.”

Wave Racer has been announced as the label’s first signing, and the Sydney producer has today dropped new single Summer Rain featuring Kwame.

"I am unspeakably lucky to be creating and releasing music again, and to be doing it with the very same team that has been with me since day one is such a privilege,” Wave Racer said. 

“As managers, Astral People took me from my bedroom to global audiences, and have had the faith and fortitude to stick with me through each and every challenge that has presented itself over the last six years. 

“The strength and confidence that I gain from having the Astral People team behind me is immeasurable, and it will continue to grow as we enter into this new chapter together. Astral People have had unwavering support for me and my music from the very start; and to be on board with them for this new beginning is truly an honour."