pop editor
Norman band Starlight Mints recently signed with Barsuk Records, an independent record label based in Seattle.
The 'Mints include Allan Vest, Javier Gonzales, and Opolis owners Andy and Marian Nunez. Barsuk is scheduled to release the band's as yet untitled third album April 11, 2006.
"Barsuk has an excellent reputation and has been very laid back with the production of the album," Vest said. "We've had complete control over every aspect of production. I actually did most of the recording and arrangements alone from my office here in Norman, which is a first."
The latest album's scheduled release maintains a three-year interval for the local quartet. The band's debut, "Dream That Stuff Was Made Of," was originally released Aug. 22, 2000, on See-Thru Broadcasting. Their sophomore effort, "Built on Squares," was released May 20, 2003, by Pias America.
"We've actually been talking to Barsuk for about three years about putting a record out," Vest said. "Our former label Pias is not producing records in the states anymore but by no means was there a falling out.
"Anyways, we are very excited about Barsuk and the future. One thing I am excited about is that we are preparing some live shows with a full 'Mints orchestra including violins, cellos, trumpets, trombones, et cetera. It's been financially difficult to pull this off in the past, but it makes a hell of a better show."
Vest said the new album is being mastered and the band will begin touring the U.S. in Febuary 2006.
Barsuk (pronounced bar-SOOK, a Russian word meaning "badger") also includes John Vanderslice, Nada Surf and fellow Okies Aqueduct on their band roster. The company has international distribution muscle and can be visited online at barsuk.com.
For more information on Starlight Mints, including sound clips, visit starlightmints.com.
