Lirica Archives - London

By Zabam

October 10, 2023

A quick chat with Tam Fallan about his new project Lirica Archives. An independent distribution and record store based in London and Berlin.

How did the distribution start, and what was the main idea behind it?

I never really thought about doing it. I already had my own labels, OPIA, Euphoric State, and Orbital London, and I continuously received music for them or requests for help in placing them elsewhere as they didn't always fit the direction of my labels at the time. I decided to start the distribution in 2022. Jorge Escribano has been a solid part of helping me get this off the ground. We have been close friends for a long while now, and with him being a resident of OPIA and being based in Berlin, it was perfect.

I'd like to give a shout out to Subwax distribution, with whom we were previously, and who were always great. I learned so much from them. I tried to absorb as much as possible from Baldo, who consistently offered me a lot of advice.

When I started Lirica, a friend who also does his own distribution told me ‘Welcome to Martyrdom,’ which he wasn't lying about haha. It's not the easiest, but it is rewarding.

How many labels are now in your distribution?

I definitely think we have over 20 record labels now in our distribution. Some release regularly and some less often.

How did the shop come along?

I was already using the space with a friend as an office for another company I run and then we decided to put up a DJ booth for us to have a bit of fun and thought, while we are at it, why not try and start a shop? We started to get some really nice second-hand stuff alongside the distribution pieces and all the Badumtish catalogues.

Once we opened, I really started to feel such a buzz around it. People come in and spend hours with us, and it's so relaxed and everyone tends to come out pretty fulfilled.

The store is located at Cody Road Studios, next to Star Lane Pizza Bar & GBL studios. We have many friends from the industry around, and many have their studios there, so there are always friends popping in for a beer and to try and get first dibs on the new 2nd hand stuff we get in haha.

We are open most days but operate by appointment only because the shop has a limited capacity. This ensures that we never have too many people inside, so everyone's digging experience is nice. Appointments can be made via the link in our Instagram bio; it's straightforward.

We are also located in Berlin at Marla Records with Badumtish and Moodwaves.

What is the relationship with Badumtish?

Alec and I are great friends. He was in Bristol for the Badumtish UK side when we were offered the space in Berlin. Costs are always a consideration, so it made sense for us to join forces. Alec's move to London to join the shop was beneficial for both parties. Together, we reach a broader audience, and the working environment is positive. I've also greatly appreciated all the help and advice from Alec.

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Record recommendation from Alec Falconer: