A recent press release highlights the 20th anniversary of Ipecac Recordings, founded in 1999 by Mike Patton and Greg Werchman. In the ensuing years, the label has released more than 200 albums, DVD, and other forms of media.
The label was first formed to released IPC-1, the debut album by Fantômas. Patton is best known for his work with Faith No More and Mr. Bungle, who disbanded shortly before the label's formation. Wreckman is Patton's manager and a former head at Alternative Tentacles. The original plan was to focus on Patton's post-Mr. Bungle projects.
“At first Mike and I started Ipecac as simply an outlet for Mike’s music. We did not really consider it a ‘label’ per se but shortly after we decided to do this, the Melvins asked if we were interested in including them. That was the moment it turned into a somewhat proper label,” Werckman says. “We quickly found out that we knew a lot of musicians that were looking for an artist friendly home. We started with very humble expectations and have been pleasantly surprised. We are grateful for our unique, loyal fanbase that have been willing to take artistic diversions with us and most of all so grateful for the artists that have been willing to join us.”
The label will release Love & Decay by Spotlights later this month.