For over a decade and a half, the label Hands In The Dark has been a beacon for experimental music, operating from the remote corners of Besançon, France, and Canterbury, UK. Founded by Morgan Cuinet and Onito, the label has become a home for artists pushing the boundaries of sound, often with a focus on sonic manipulation and a sense of dreamlike surrealism. What makes Hands In The Dark particularly fascinating is its ability to foster connections and collaborations, even when its founders are geographically separated. This is evident in the label's diverse roster, which includes artists like Tomaga, Brian Case, and Läuten der Seele, each bringing their unique approach to music.
One of the label's standout releases is Tomaga's Intimate Immensity, a haunting and ethereal album that captures the duo's ability to blend emotion and abstraction. The album, recorded in Tom Relleen's bunker space, is a testament to the duo's creative freedom and their ability to conjure up alien timbres and melodies. Relleen's passing in 2020 only adds to the album's emotional depth, making it a poignant and special release for the label.
Hands In The Dark's commitment to fostering connections is also evident in its collaboration with Brian Case, a legendary figure in alternative rock circles. Case's solo music, released on the label, is a departure from his previous work, featuring abstract electronic pieces pieced together from fragments of sampled guitar or drums. The label's admiration for Case's adventurous spirit is clear, as they have released four of his solo albums.
The label's interest in sonic manipulation is further exemplified by its release of Läuten der Seele's Die Reise zur Monsalwäsche, an album that blends acoustic instrumentation with samples drawn from film and classical music. The album's haunting, nostalgic quality is a testament to the label's ability to discover and nurture hidden gems, even in the most obscure corners of the experimental music scene.
Hands In The Dark's commitment to fostering connections and collaborations, even when its founders are geographically separated, is a key factor in its success. The label's ability to discover and nurture hidden gems, like Schatterau and Valby Vokalgruppe, is a testament to its keen ear for boundary-pushing sounds. The label's longevity, operating as a non-profit organization, is a mark of its dedication to the romantic notion of culture as a fundamental expression of humanity.
In my opinion, Hands In The Dark's impact on the experimental music scene cannot be overstated. The label's ability to foster connections, discover hidden gems, and nurture talent is a testament to its dedication and passion for music. As the label continues to evolve and release innovative, radical, and avant-garde visions, it will undoubtedly continue to be a beacon for experimental music lovers around the world.
