University of the West of Scotland launch record label

Damfino Records boasts backing from the likes of Deacon Blue’s Jim Prime and Love and Money’s Paul McGeechan, who both lecture on the University of the West of Scotland's (UWS) highly regarded music programmes.

The label will be run by students and is specifically designed to provide a platform for exciting new talent emerging from within the university.

Damfino is to release a compilation album on Friday, June 18 via several services including Bandcamp, showcasing an eclectic mix of artists who are based across Scotland.

This is Damfino will feature artists such as the fast-rising Moray singer Modern Sonder, Shetland-based Between City Lights, Glasgow’s Niall Gibson and Weekend Debt, whose members are from Lanark and Falkirk.

Weekend Debt

Amelia Boyle, manager of Damfino Records and a BA Commercial Music student, told The Gazette: "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 well-rounded 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."

Amelia believes the pandemic has left students desperate to perform. 

She 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 member of legendary rock group Deacon Blue, said: "The University of the West of Scotland 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."