We have added a couple of new releases to our online store.

The first is a new release for us, but an old release for Lindsay Phillips. So old is this release, in fact, that there are a mere 50 copies on CD left to buy. The album is also available digitally in high quality MP3 format. It's Lindsay's second, self-recorded EP entitled Aileen. Check it out.

The next release is a new one. It's the debut solo instrumental album by Andrew Keese of Andrew Keese & The Associates. It's available now in MP3 and limited edition CD format. MP3 trivia: each track on the album has a uniquely encoded cover art image. Have a listen.

More releases and news to come as the year unfolds ...

2010 kicked off in a rather-less-than-celebratory manner with the passing of several notable musicians in Australia and overseas and the sudden and unjust closure of Melbourne live music institution, the Tote Hotel.

Still, we're firm believers that it's always possible to rise from the ashes, and in that spirit, here's the latest on our plans for this year.

First up is the debut album from Lindsay Phillips. Entitled Varning, it is an intricate and involving album which, we're pleased to announce, will be released on glorious vinyl with a free digital download card included in the sleeve. Artwork is currently being finalised (it is "striking", to say the least) and as soon as we can, we'll start posting the tracks and beginning national promo.

Secondly, label partner Andrew Keese has completed his instrumental album, Infinite Possible Shapes. It will be released in around a month or so. There will be a four track free download with the remaining tracks available digitally at 95c each and a limited edition (100) CD version priced at around $10.

Finally, we're extremely excited about Amaya Laucirica's stunning second record, Early Summer. The album is currently in the stages of mastering and artwork and we're planning the release around April 2010. Amaya will be performing in Melbourne during the lead up and, as with Lindsay Phillips' album, this looks like it will be another vinyl/digital release.

Subscribers to Amaya's mailing list will be entitled to an advance preview listen and the free download of several tracks, so visit her site and sign up.

We've been remiss on the mailing list front, so apologies to our subscribers, who were promised free goods and news and various other perks. We'll pick it up this month and aim for a little more regularity this year.

Much more news to come as the year unfolds ...

As the year draws to a close, so too does our business for 2009.

We'll be back in January 2010 and are looking forward to an exciting new year with the official launch of our label and plenty of new releases.

Thank you to all our visitors, supporters, buyers, subscribers, partners and friends for an outstanding 2009.

Have a safe and happy holiday season and we'll see you on the flip side.

Best Wishes,
Departed Sounds.

P.S. If you're in Melbourne, don't forget Gaslight Radio's Christmas Show at the Toff in Town, Swanston Street, Melbourne CBD on the evening of Wednesday 23rd.