LUNATICWORKS RUNNING THE ASYLUM

It seems like every day you hear someone complain that there just aren’t enough record labels. And thankfully, a new one has sprung up.

Beyond Music (and one-time Geffen) head of sales Jason Whittington has started a new imprint, dedicated to finding "bedroom musicians." LunaticWorks, as it’s been dubbed, is a new experimental electronica label with a twist: Whittington is looking for artists who are holed up in their home studios and has asked them to send in their music. If he digs it, the label will pay for mastering and include the track on one of the label’s upcoming compilations. Artists will share in royalties and are expected to work in marketing their track within their own community. Just like at real record companies. Oh, wait. LunaticWorks will be distributed through Beyond/Universal Music Group.

Said Whittington: "With the availability, affordability and plug and playability of today’s tools, kids are producing close to studio quality tracks in their bedrooms. We feel there’s a wealth of untapped talent right in our own backyard and now it can be available to everyone. Everyone with a bedroom and a backyard, that is."

Experimental electronica artists who want to be considered are asked to send their tapes to Tim White c/o Billboard Magazine, 5055 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90036.