Discourse with VTO Records: Unveiling the Highpoints of Neurofunk in Chapter 3
In the ever-evolving landscape of music, London-based record label VTO Records stands out as a beacon for Neurofunk drum and bass enthusiasts. With a cohesive, overarching theme that permeates each of its releases, the label has established itself as a go-to destination for fans of the genre.
The label's releases, often inspired by cyberpunk culture, offer a unique blend of music and narrative that immerses listeners in a world of technological and social chaos. Each track contributes to an apocalyptic vision, weaving a sonic tapestry that reflects the dystopian setting of a futuristic, dystopian world.
The music itself is characterised by the Neurofunk genre's dark, futuristic, and high-energy soundscapes. VTO Records' releases draw inspiration from classic cyberpunk narratives, such as those found in works by William Gibson or the Blade Runner franchise, and update these themes for the modern era, reflecting contemporary concerns about AI, surveillance, and the intersection of humanity and technology.
The label's core members, including Jane Doe, The Fi5th, and Bad Ace, embody what VTO Records stands for and serve as go-to collaborators. These artists have contributed to some of the label's most defining sounds, such as Jane Doe's "Fortress EP," which embodies the label's cyberpunk aesthetic.
VTO Records prides itself on providing a personal touch and transparency to its relationships with producers, and aims to work with these core artists on at least one release per year and support them in their artistic journey.
The label's focus for 2025 and beyond will be on curating a selective roster of music and artists who bring the essence of the Neurofunk genre back to its roots while pushing its boundaries in meaningful ways. The latest installment in the Cells Interlinked series has been wrapped up, featuring brand-new artists.
Social media and its algorithms create challenges for independent creators and brands, making it difficult to grow. However, VTO Records has managed to navigate these challenges, in part by discovering and nurturing new talent through a combination of a steady stream of demos and networking efforts.
The Neurofunk community's feedback and support greatly influence the direction of VTO Records. The label's third annual compilation album, Chapter 3, released in 2024, highlights the label's achievements over the past year, with a focus on the highest number of releases in its history. The album's artwork is inspired by the cyberpunk aesthetic, drawing from futuristic visions in movies like Blade Runner and Tron.
One standout track from the album is Stonx's "Cemetarium," created in the summer of 2024, which stands out as a defining sound for VTO Records, with an epic intro and buildup. The album's final track, "Chapter 3," offers a sonic journey for listeners, serving as a moment for celebration, reflecting on VTO Records' best year yet.
In 2025, VTO Records will continue to prioritize artists and their recognition, ensuring that each release aligns with the label's identity. The label has several heavy-hitter DnB artists lined up for the year, including several new additions to the roster.
The head of A&R for VTO Records, Dan, has an exceptional ability to identify quality music and make decisions. The artists' trust and willingness to work with VTO Records is deeply appreciated by the label, as it continues to push the boundaries of the Neurofunk genre and offer a unique, immersive experience to its listeners.
The fusion of music and technology is evident in VTO Records' releases, as these tracks often reflect the intersection of humanity and technology, drawing inspiration from classic cyberpunk narratives. In 2025, the label plans to expand its roster, working with heavy-hitter DnB artists who embody the Neurofunk genre's dark, futuristic soundscapes, and contributing to a diverse lifestyle mix that incorporates entertainment and technology in innovative ways.
