Steven Williams (owner) Init Records
What is your name and band/label/etc?
Steven Williams. Init Records.
What are your top five albums that were released in 2012? (In order 1-5)
- Amenra - Mass V
- Mountain Goats - Transcendental Youth
- Cursive - I Am Gemini
- Gifts From Enola - A Healthy Fear
- Propagandhi - Failed States
Probably forgot something crucial. #6 would be the Blue Letter - Love Is Not Control CD/LP released on my label.
What band did you discover in 2012 (can be a brand new band or an older band) that had an impact on your life? What made them significant?
Probably Khann. My friend Aaron Horkey introduced them to me, and then I realized it was the new bassist for KEN Mode's other band. Their latest album, Erode, pretty much picks up where bands like Transistor Transistor and other Level Plane Records bands pick up.
How will you remember 2012? (In terms of music)
I will remember some awesome reissues (Moss Icon, Everyone Asked About You), seeing some great shows (Refused), and incurring large(r) amounts of debt for my label.
What can we look forward to from you in 2013?
Just a few things planned for now. A live Amenra CD, the debut full-length from Roman Ships (ex-Sinking Steps Rising Eyes), a split 7" between Wolvhammer and Atlas Moth for Record Store Day, and a few other surprises in the works (hopefully)!
What records are you looking forward to most in 2013?
I'm really looking forward to the new Cult Of Luna and KEN Mode albums.
Fundraising sites like Kickstarter and Indiegogo have made a strong impact on the ability of artists to release music. Do you think this approach is a trend, or will it continue to shape how artists produce their material?
I hope this is just a trend. I have always been under the belief that if you truly believe in the art you are producing, you should put your own money and time into it. Maybe the joke is on me, as I rack up debt and interest and accumulate a basement full of unsold CDs and vinyl, but I think it's a lame way to fund your release. If you put out a quality product and promote yourself, your fans are going to buy it regardless, whether you have 10 fans or 10,000 fans. Don't exploit them by asking for a handout.
