About Us

Soleilmoon began in 1987 as a cassette label, operating from the back of a tiny little record shop called The Ooze. The first releases were by Smegma, Muslimgauze, Coil, and Nocturnal Emissions. Compact discs releases soon followed in increasing numbers, until eventually all of the cassettes were deleted. In recent years the label has issued vinyl records, video tapes, and DATs.

The artists presented by Soleilmoon cover many musical territories, but all share in common an appreciation of the possibilities available through the creative use of technology. Much of the music is dark and electronic, but there are also examples of ethnic influences, ambient soundscapes, and even harsh experimental noise pieces.

Two European labels have been loyal allies in the early days of Soleilmoon's existence. Touch, based in London, has long been the home base for numerous vital musical and visual artists. Staalplaat, in Amsterdam, was a virtual "brother" to Soleilmoon for many years. Staalplaat and Soleilmoon frequently worked together to issue co-releases, and several artists were signed to both labels simultaneously. With the passing of time the two labels found themselves diverging artistically and philosophically, and now act independently of each other.

Soleilmoon releases are distributed in the UK by Cargo, in Europe by Cold Meat Industry, Target, and Tesco, and in Japan by Digital Narcis. Distributors and stores in America and other territories interested in opening an account can contact us to receive further information.

Musicians, artists and knob turners are a tortured breed. An artist needs an outlet for their work be seen or heard via live shows or recorded releases. We are constantly asked to review demo cassettes by unknown artists and we are asked to reply with a word or two about the work, or even better release their material thru Soleilmoon. The sad truth is we are not able to listen to the material given to us because of time. Honesty is the best policy here, so the brutal truth is that demos wind up in a dusty old cardboard box behind our copy machine, never to be played. A word to the wise: If you are planning on "making a name for yourself thru music" get out and play shows where ever and when ever you can. People need to hear your work in a live setting. The response given by a crowd of a few is better than no response by a record company. Make those demos work for you by selling them at your live events, or consign them at your local record store. If the art is brilliant and word of mouth spreads, people will come to you with the offers.

Our People

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