“This was the year of the little guy, with new vinyl labels riding a magic carpet of internet hype and limited supply. Here are the five imprints everyone should be watching.

… The thread running through all these small presses’ success is a “no new friends” approach to A&R. Such was the case with Blank Slate, who launched their label from the unlikely HQ of Ithaca, New York. Blank Slate’s first release was a compilation introducing the world to four totally unknown artists. The label kept the blinders on to winning effect, going on to release full EPs by Arnaldo and Mirko along with atmospheric house cuts by label co-founder Rene Audiard. An equal emphasis on mind and body has made Blank Slate one of the hottest imprints for those who know.”