Originating from Wisconsin, Candyrat Records is a record label which has become notorious for showcasing exceptionally talented guitarists covering a wide range of conventional and experimental playing techniques. Formed in 2005, the label has picked up a substantial YouTube following allowing it to grow and to develop into a strong brand for aspiring musicians to follow and to be inspired by.
Their mission statement is made clear on their Facebook page; “The Candyrat Record Label mission is focused on exceptional modern-day composition. We sign and develop extraordinary artists and offer music from independent artists as well as other labels.”
Candyrat Records does an exceptional job of showcasing talent that would otherwise go unnoticed. They are particularly good at picking artists to represent purely on their playing abilities over their popularity and singing their praises to a growing audience. In a music industry where popularity often takes priority over talent, this is a refreshing breath of clean air for those who work hard to master their instruments.
For those who don't play guitar, it can be a little bit confusing at first. The most popular video on their YouTube account is “Drifting” - a composition by former Candyrat musician Andy McKee, which effectively shows a large range of experimental playing techniques from percussive playing on the body of the acoustic guitar, to two handed tapping and mellow harmonics. There is very little conventional strumming, and in some sections Mckee is playing both the bass line and percussion with his left hand and the melody with his right, which can be difficult to comprehend. For guitarists who are looking to expand their playing abilities, this is inspirational, and opens up a whole new world of ideas that allows them to believe that their guitar is more than just a guitar.
Some of the more showcased but unusual playing techniques are percussive playing, double neck guitar playing, alternative tunings, two handed tapping, technical fingerpicking, and even tuning the strings by turning the tuning pegs while playing the open notes. Music is sound after all, and these guitarists love to show that a guitar can be much more than just six strings.
While most of the musicians under the Candyrat Record label are acoustic guitarists, there are a range of different genres and instruments including harp guitars, electric guitars, double bassists and singers. Some of the more famous musicians under the label are Antoine Dufour, Ewan Dobson, Don Ross and Ethan Case as well as lesser known musicians who, thanks to the label, are now gaining excellent exposure.
Their website (candyrat.com) features an excellent page which clearly displays all of the upcoming tour dates of all of the artists under the label, mostly around the US but also touring abroad. The website also features a specialised guitar and music store, especially good for finding rare and unusual items often used in the experimental playing styles, and a store where budding guitarists can download tablature and music of their favourite Candyrat artists so they can teach themselves the music and learn these new and exciting techniques, alongside all upcoming releases, news updates, and information you could possibly need.