When not directing memorable videos for the likes of Misery Index and Today is the Day (to name just a few), David Hall was also putting out music under the Handshake Inc. banner. In operation since 2006, Handshake has put out albums with Fuck the Facts, Pyrrhon, Couchslut, Blacklisters, and many more over the years. As of today Hall ceased operations and according to Exclaim! he’s put the record label up for sale on Craigslist.
Said David Hall on the Handshake Inc. website:
“It is with a heavy heart that I must announce that effective immediately, Handshake Inc., will be ceasing all active operations. Handshake titles – music, dvds, books – (digital, and those physical titles still in print) will continue to be distributed via mail order and physical and digital distribution methods, but as of today, Handshake Inc., will not function as an active entity that releases new music, books or films.
I feel that I must be honest in providing the reason why I am shutting down the label, but am not comfortable in divulging details that are too personal, so I will say this: due to the gradual but unforeseen onset of a very serious health issue, I can no longer, in good conscience, deal with or run the day-to-day operations of the label. I could, irresponsibly, try and forge ahead, throw caution to the wind, and ‘see what happens’ but out of respect to my family and the bands and artists I work with, I will not take this approach.”
Take heart, though, as Hall will still make music videos and do other projects with bands but will, “be under the banner of a new and sharper-focused entity.”
