February 21, 2026
”Shades’ is a special various artists compilation curated to mark Whitelabrecs’ 10-year anniversary. The label began with humble, hand-made editions; vinyl-effect CDr releases inspired by a love of white label records and the tactile rituals of the vinyl format. A decade on, ‘Shades’ brings that story full circle: a carefully considered concept album pressed to vinyl, presented as a beautifully printed edition with a striking green disc, as a personal and symbolic milestone in the label’s evolution.

Conceived as a snapshot of Whitelabrecs’ sonic identity, ‘Shades’ explores the breadth of styles the label has come to represent. The line-up of artists was purposefully curated to provide a carefully balanced blend of the label’s stylistic range. Side A leans into deep Ambient and electro-acoustic territory, moving through expansive drones and tonal works, fractured tape-decayed loops, synthesiser and clarinet interplay, and sprawling electro-acoustic compositions. Side B shifts towards a Modern Classical palette, featuring enveloping cinematic strings, contemporary piano and string writing, atmospheric piano and trombone, and a closing piece that merges synthesiser, strings and radio static.

More than a retrospective, ‘Shades’ reflects Whitelabrecs’ curatorial approach as a reference point for listeners discovering the label and for artists seeking to understand its musical direction. The concept is visually reinforced by artwork from Nkl, whose design spans the sleeve and disc label, mirroring the album’s themes of contrast, range and cohesion. As a whole, ‘Shades’ stands as both a celebration of ten years and a clear statement of where Whitelabrecs has been, and where it continues to go.’ listen