According to TOC, Touch and Go Records, the celebrated independent Chicago label that has released albums by TV On The Radio, The Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Ted Leo and the Butthole Surfers, as well as dozens of lesser-known (but much loved) punk bands, is closing up shop. It’ll continue to manage its considerable back catalog, but will not release new music.
If this news is officially confirmed, this is a sad day for Chicago music. Console yourself with this video of Steve Albini’s group, Big Black, performing at Touch and Go’s 25th anniversary celebration in 2006 (which coincided with the Hideout Block Party’s 10th anniversary).