Local Label Grape Juice Records Turns Five

By Veronica Murtagh in Arts & Entertainment on Aug 26, 2009 7:00PM

Despite the fading stability of the independent record label model, Chicago has long remained an epicenter for small labels doing big things. Over the years you've heard the names of the main players—Thrill Jockey, Bloodshot, Touch & Go and Drag City—but Chicago boasts a host of lesser known, but no less ambitious labels.

Grape Juice Records is an indie and folk rock focused label with a grassroots approach and a (mostly) locally-culled artist roster. The label teams up with their talent to donate to nonprofits of the musicians' choosing, giving back to the community at large. A socially-conscious business plan paired with a well-chosen roster of up-and-coming talent make Grape Juice Records a small label to watch.

Grape Juice has just turned five and will be celebrating at the Double Door on September 3 with an event that reads more like a talent showcase than a party. Attendees will be the first to get their hands on free copies of the Grape Juice Family and Friends, Vol. 1 compilation album and enjoy performances from many of the label's artists including The Minneapolis Henrys, Phillip Morris, Curtis Evans, The Lower 48, ...soihadto..., Squaaks, Go Long Mule, and a Chicagoist favorite, Inchworm. The night ends with a custom cake from Duff Goldman of Food Network's Ace Of Cakes that's sure to be the perfect visual complement to the evening.

Grape Juice Records Five Year Anniversary, Thursday, September 3, at Double Door, 1572 N Milwaukee, 8 p.m., $6, 21+.