Bent Hedonism Records
BENT HEDONISM RECORDS launches in 2025 to showcase the work of recent guests and emerging talent across the North West. Rooted in the UK’s queer-led underground, the imprint exists to amplify artists whose music reflects Manchester’s evolving sonic identity. The label positions itself within a new wave of liberation emerging through queer raves, while paying homage to the foundational LGBTQIA+ history of dance music.
Manifesto
- BENT HEDONISM was founded to showcase the vibrant array of sounds heard at the Derby Brewery Arms in Manchester and the broader UK queer rave scene.
- BENT HEDONISM believes that music is the language of freedom, self-expression, and diversity, and this ethos will be reflected by its release pool.
- BENT HEDONISM isn’t an exclusively queer label. It’s a space for artists who honour the cultural roots of dance music and share a commitment to creativity as a form of community care.
- BENT HEDONISM will prioritise vinyl and direct digital formats, limiting streaming where possible. Our focus is on platforms that meaningfully support artists and sustain creative independence.
- BENT HEDONISM acknowledges and celebrates the groundbreaking contributions of early LGBTQIA+ and POC artists whose influence continues to shape modern music.
- BENT HEDONISM emphasises that these visionaries, who laid the foundations of dance music, predominantly came from marginalised backgrounds that must be recognised, honoured, and celebrated.