2007 was a good year for a number of independent Canadian record labels. We were treated to a slew of albums from the likes of Arts & Crafts and Paper Bag Records, and smaller scale operations like Secret City had some major success (with both of their artists being nominated for and one winning the Polaris Prize). However, for my money there is one label who beat them all in terms of consistently enjoyable output: Constellation Records.

It’s a rare case when this renowned Montréal label puts out a less than stellar album and this year was no exception. Celebrating their 10th anniversary in 2007, it also marked Constellation’s entry into the digital domain, as their admirable catalogue was made available to select online retailers (like Zunior.com). Mail order is still their bread and butter—this is, after all, a label revered for its packaging—but giving more people access to their tunes can’t hurt.

Of course, while there’s something to be said for Grammy nominations and other accolades, the releases are ultimately what matter, and the overall quality of the 5 diverse albums put out by Constellation this year are the reason why they are my #1.

Speaking of which, here’s a subjective rundown:

Do Make Say Think - You, You’re a History in Rust
(February 2007)

The fifth album from this famed instrumental outfit (though some occasional vocals do make a rare appearance on this release), You, You’re a History in Rust is as atmospheric, lush and intoxicating as we’ve come to expect—they, like the label they call home, seem unable to disappoint.

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Vic Chesnutt - North Star Deserter
(September 2007)

Somber and glorious, this album marked Chesnutt’s induction into the Constellation family, and a fitting union it proved to be. Sure, the veteran songwriter’s chops took centre stage, but the gang from Montréal definitely helped out, resulting in an intermittently intimate and thunderous release.

Read my previously posted comprehensive review here.

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Hrsta - Ghosts Will Come and Kiss Our Eyes
(September 2007)

I didn’t know what to make of this one at first, but a few listens later this spacious and engrossing sophomore release sucked me in. Haunting instrumentation and ghostly vocals (with droning delivery occasionally reminiscent of Thom Yorke) dominate this release and combine to create an expansive landscape befitting of an evening in a desert. Not an everyday listen, but good to set the introspective mood.

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Sandro Perri - Tiny Mirrors
(October 2007)

The debut full-length release under this diversely talented Toronto musician’s own name, Tiny Mirrors is Sandro Perri rocking you to sleep with sweet acoustic lullabies. Serene and pleasant, this is the soundtrack to a relaxed and carefree existence (that may include some fine wine).

Read my previously posted comprehensive review here.

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Feu Thérèse - Ça Va Cogner
(October 2007)

The sophomore release from Feu Thérèse, I have to admit that I was put off by this release upon first listen. However, it turns out that it’s more of a stylistic thing, as I’m just not one to go in for the 80s style synth and production. Once I made it past the accurately self-described “unapologetically forward” aspects of the release (as detailed here) I found myself enjoying it more and more. A bit sassy and flamboyant, Ça Va Cogner makes for a fun listen when in the right mood—the potential soundtrack to a colourful 1980s french Western.

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All told, I’d be happy to have all of these releases in my vinyl collection (the trademark packaging alone is worth it), as its not everyday that you come across such a diverse and satisfying smattering of records, let alone from one label. So, while other labels may have released more albums or been nominated for more coveted awards, at the end of the day Constellation has my vote based on sheer reliability and class.

I’m confident that I could blindly subscribe to this label’s upcoming releases and never be disappointed, and while I don’t have any prize or trophy to give, I hope this high praise is enough.

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By the way, happy holidays! I’ve got my best-of list and band of the year coming, but it’s time to relax with the family and enjoy the time off work…