Since 2013, Russian artist and label A&R Chingis Iakovlev has been releasing a spiritually-charged brand of deep and melodic club tracks on his own Baikal Nomads imprint.
The label has hosted productions from names such as Zuma Dionys, Mula, and The Oddness on their catalogue, and 10 years later they’re still pushing a consistent release schedule going into 2024.
We spoke to him about the inception of the label, how they approach signing new music, and what else they have in store over the coming months. Read the full interview with Chinigis Iakovlev below.
You first launched Baikal Nomads back in 2013, what made you want to own a record label?
In 2013 I created a SoundCloud page without the intention of owning a record label really, I just wanted to collect music that I like on one page and check out new sounds, artists, and labels too, so I can say that this wish came true with my page and seeing it grow to what it is today is amazing.
And what was the most difficult thing about planning and launching the label?
I think for a small boutique label like Baikal Nomads, the hardest part is retaining the discipline and keeping the extensive routine of managing daily tasks that go on behind the music releases such as demo listening or getting artwork organised and finalised.
What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learnt in the 10 years in between then and now?
I believe in writing down your wishes on a piece of paper and sometimes making corrections, so you can see how things become true over time. Also, an important aspect for me is to always be honest with yourself and to others you come in contact with, then everything will be good.
You’ve released tracks from names like Zuma Dionys, Mula, and The Oddness over the years, what’s your typical approach to signing new music?
When hearing new music, I find that it should resonate in my body and that it should make me want to dance. Enjoying listening to the tracks is also important, to the point where I want to come back for repeat listens to hear more of the hidden details.
What’s one important role in running a label which people might not be aware of?
These days many artists think that they don’t need a label to release their music and can go it alone and use the various self-release services, but in my honest opinion, I think record labels will be here with an important role forever, as key tastemakers and trendsetters.
What’s your favourite record label?
I love a record label called down. from Austria, who seem to capture a great sound. There is also a great label called Cosmovision from Montreal, Canada and a few more labels out there that have a similar taste to Baikal Nomads.
Will you be setting any specific goals for Baikal Nomads in 2024?
It would be cool to see us double the number of followers on our SoundCloud page and Bandcamp, as that would be great to see as a milestone for the coming year.
Is there anything else you want to add before we go?
Oh yes, please follow our SoundCloud page as we are adding new music all the time that I’m sure you will love! Stay tuned as always to our social channels too, as there is so much more great music on the way to enjoy and stay up to date with!