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Failsafe Records

Biography

Rob Mayes’ mighty Failsafe Records, a committed independent label that is as part of Christchurch as a warm Nor-Wester.

The original home of many Christchurch bands who went on to big things, as well as a great many undiscovered gems who didn’t – as well as being a great resource for those bands who saw their material ignored on higher profile labels (see the ‘Biding Our Time‘ compilation).

Their ‘Avalanche‘ compilation (named after Mayes’ recording studio) is a classic, and a firm snapshot of quality Christchurch pop.

In 2004 and into 2005 Mayes formulated a series of reissues, archival compilations, live recording released as the ‘Retrogenic‘ series, compiling unreleased music from the likes of 8 Living Legs, Children’s Hour, YFC and a huge catalog of Pop Mechanix material.

Around this time the Electrode off-shoot electronic label was also brought about with the release of the ‘Do Robots Dream of Electric Sheep‘ compilation.

Mayes moved to Japan with his family, but continued to produce and release new and archival material on the label. In 2013 Mayes formed a partnership with Japanese label Vivid sound, who produced limited edition release of a handful of Failsafe artists (How to Kill, Beat Rhythm Fashion, Pop Mechanix and Kimo).

Artist Roster

Compilation Discography

  • Accident Cassette (1984, 002)
  • Biding Out Time Cassette (1986, 006)
  • South Cassette (1987, 007)
  • Keepin’ Secrets (2005, 079CD)
  • Accident Reissue (2005, 002CD)
  • Biding Out Time Reissue (2005, 006CD)
  • South Reissue (2005, 007CD)
  • Do Robots Dream Of Electric Sheep (Released On The Electrode Imprint 2005, ELEC001)
  • Keepin’ Secrets (2005, 079CD)

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