After foundering in recent years, Misra Records this week announced its relaunch, a new distribution deal with Chicago indie label Bloodshot and a free digital compilation of songs by artists who have called Misra home, Centro-matic, Great Lake Swimmers, Destroyer and Southeast Engine among them.

Speaking of Southeast Engine, drummer Leo DeLuca heads the reconstituted Misra — a clear case of the inmates running the asylum, in the best way possible. The artist-run label’s first new release? Why, Southeast Engine’s “Canary,” due March 29. The Black Swans, Sleeping States, Summer Hymns and the Collection Agency, a new project from former Mendoza Line member Timothy Bracy, also have Misra releases scheduled for this year.

Misra fans from the Lemonheads, Deer Tick, Deerhoof, the Wrens and Drive-By Truckers selected the songs on “Misra Legacy Compilation, Vol. 1,” which is available right here for free. Volume 2 is due later this year.

January 20, 2011 at 8:30 am | Share |