Gar Hole Records, the Fayetteville-based label that’s been a beacon for Arkansas folk music, has packed up its vinyl and moved to New Orleans. Co-founder Kurt DeLashmet spoke about the decision, marking a bittersweet farewell to the city that has nurtured their unique sound and community.
Established in 2018, Gar Hole Records quickly became a beloved fixture in Fayetteville, pushing the boundaries of folk music and giving a platform to local talent. Over the years, the label has been responsible for releasing albums that defined the sound of the Ozarks, working with artists who blended traditional folk with modern twists.
So, why the move away from Dickson Street’s vibrant music scene? DeLashmet explained it was a combination of personal and professional reasons. “New Orleans offers a different kind of creative energy,” he said. “It’s a city with its own rich musical history, and we’re excited to see how that influences our future projects.”
While the allure of New Orleans was undeniable, the decision wasn’t made lightly. “Fayetteville has been our home and the community has been incredibly supportive,” DeLashmet noted. “But we felt it was time for a change, to explore new avenues and collaborate with artists we might not have come across otherwise.”
The move doesn’t mean Fayetteville will be forgotten. DeLashmet assured that Gar Hole Records still plans to maintain connections with Arkansas artists. “We’re not cutting ties. We’re just expanding our reach,” he said, hinting at upcoming projects that will still feature talent from the Natural State.
For Fayetteville residents who have followed Gar Hole Records since its inception, this is indeed a significant shift. Yet, it also opens doors for the local music scene to grow and evolve. The city has been known to foster creativity, and there’s no doubt that other labels and artists will step up to fill the void left behind.
In the meantime, Fayetteville’s music lovers might find solace in the upcoming lineup at the Walmart AMP, which continues to attract big names to the area, like Mumford & Sons. And who knows? Maybe we’ll see some of Gar Hole’s artists making their way back to town for a performance or two — a nod to the roots they’ll never quite leave behind.
With its new base in New Orleans, Gar Hole Records is set to embark on an exciting new chapter. But as any Arkansan knows, the soul of folk music is never far away, no matter where the record spins.
Source: Arkansas Times
