Uni’s record label gives young talent a platform
Support for new venture
A record label supported by Scottish music heavyweights is being launched in Paisley.
Damfino Records has been set up by the University of the West of Scotland and seeks to provide a platform for new talent emerging on campus.
The label will be run by students and boasts backing from the likes of Deacon Blue’s Jim Prime, and Love and Money’s Paul McGeechan, who both lecture on the university’s highly regarded music programmes.
Damfino is to release a compilation album on Friday, via several services showcasing an eclectic mix of artists who are based across Scotland.
This is Damfino features artists such as the fastr ising Moray singer Modern Sonder, Shetlandbased Between City Lights, Glasgow’s Niall Gibson and Weekend Debt; whose members are from Lanark and Falkirk.
Amelia Boyle, manager of Damfino Records and a BA commercial music student, said: “I’m really excited for people to hear what Damfino is all about.
“There are so many talented artists based at UWS, thanks largely to the quality of its music programmes, and the teaching staff.
“Being able to learn from seasoned professionals such as Jim Prime, Paul and Becci Wallace is tremendous, and has really helped our acts develop not only into wellrounded artists, but into exceptional and exciting talents.
“I think people will be surprised at the level of talent on offer here – we are really proud of what we have been able to produce.”
Explaining the pandemic has left students desperate to perform, Ameilia added: “The past year has been difficult for new artists, as we’ve lost the ability to gig and showcase our music.
“I’m really pleased that Damfino is able to give some really talented people the chance to get their work out there, to win over new fans.”
Jim Prime, commercial music lecturer at UWS, and also a member of legendary rock group Deacon Blue, said: “UWS has a really exciting music scene, and each year produces industry-ready talent.
“If you look at the talent involved with Damfino, you really are looking at the future of the music industry and it looks incredibly bright.
“It ’ s great that we are able to launch this independently run record label at UWS, and it will continue to ensure that we are not only producing talent of the highest quality, but that they are being given big opportunities to establish themselves.”