Overview

13th Planet Records is an independent record label founded in 2004 by Al Jourgensen, best known as the frontman of the industrial band Ministry, together with his wife Angelina Jourgensen. The imprint was created to release and manage recordings primarily within industrial rock, heavy electronics and related heavy music scenes. It has been used as a vehicle for Jourgensen’s projects and for like-minded artists seeking a DIY approach to production and distribution. For more information about the label see the label site and about Al Jourgensen’s band Ministry.

History and purpose

Established in the early 2000s, 13th Planet emerged from the desire of an established artist to exert more control over how music was released, promoted and packaged. The label provided a platform for new material from Jourgensen’s projects as well as reissues and special editions. Its foundation reflects a broader trend of musicians founding independent labels to retain artistic rights and oversee production choices.

Activities and releases

The label’s work has included original album releases, expanded editions, and collaborations with producers and remixers from industrial and metal circles. Typical label activities include:

  • Releasing albums and EPs for projects associated with Jourgensen.
  • Issuing remixes, live recordings and special packages.
  • Coordinating physical and digital distribution, merchandising and promotion.

Significance and distinctions

13th Planet is notable as an artist-run imprint closely tied to a prominent figure in industrial music. It illustrates how veteran musicians can create infrastructure to preserve creative control and to serve niche audiences. The label also contributed to keeping archival material and side projects available to fans outside mainstream corporate channels.

Further notes

While centered on a specific musical aesthetic, the label’s model is comparable to many independent labels that prioritize artistic autonomy. Interested readers can follow the label’s catalog and announcements via the official outlet or consult writings about Jourgensen and his bands for context on specific releases.