Based between Amsterdam and Sicily, Tzunami is a record label carving out its own corner of the techno landscape. Launched in 2023 as a direct extension of its founder Gaspare Crapanzano’s work in the studio and behind the decks, the label has grown into a home for a tight circle of artists who share the same sonic vision.
In this Label Spotlight, we speak with Gaspare (aka Tzuvre) about how the label came to life, the philosophy shaping its catalog, and the challenges of staying true to artistic conviction in an oversaturated scene.
Hi Gaspare! Tell us, how did Tzunami come to life? What inspired you to start a record label?
Tzunami was born from a very natural need: creating a platform that fully reflects my artistic vision without compromises. I wanted a space where sound, identity, and energy could exist freely, outside of trends or expectations. It started as an extension of my DJ and production work, but quickly evolved into something bigger, a home for like-minded artists.
How would you describe your label’s mission or philosophy in one sentence?
To push raw, emotional, and forward-thinking techno without filters, staying true to identity over hype.
What are some highlights from your label experience so far?
There have been several meaningful moments, from strong releases that received support on international stages to collaborations with artists I deeply respect. Seeing the music played in clubs and connecting with people through the label’s sound is always a highlight. Also, building a consistent identity release after release has been a key achievement for me.
How important is it for you to support your local scene or community?
It’s very important. Even though the project is internationally oriented, I believe staying connected to your roots gives authenticity. Supporting emerging artists and creating opportunities, both locally and beyond, is something I value a lot.
What are some of the biggest challenges of running an independent label today?
Standing out in an oversaturated market is definitely one of the biggest challenges. There’s a huge amount of music being released every day, so maintaining quality, identity, and visibility at the same time requires constant focus and consistency. Another aspect relates to the current promotion landscape: many visibility opportunities are tied to paid models, but I strongly believe that editorial support and premieres should primarily be driven by a genuine connection to the music rather than financial factors. For me, artistic value comes first, while more structured collaborations can naturally develop at a later stage in a transparent way.
What’s the best thing about running an independent label?
The freedom. Being able to make decisions based purely on artistic direction without external pressure is the most rewarding aspect. It allows the label to stay honest and evolve organically.
How do you discover and choose the artists you work with?
It’s a very selective process, mainly driven by me. I don’t work in an open or random way, I actively look for artists who already reflect the exact sonic direction of the label. For me, it’s essential to have a real connection, both on a human and artistic level, and that the sound is already aligned with what Tzunami stands for. It’s not about adapting, but about sharing a common vision from the very beginning.
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