Shock announces new Label Director, Tarbuk moves to Believe Digital

Shock Records has announced the appointment of its new Label Director/Head of Music Luke Girgis, who replacesthe Melbourne-based independent’s long-time team member Mick Tarbuk.

A ten-year veteran in label, tour and artist management, Girgis currently manages major label signings Little Sea and Chance Waters. His focus will be on signing and nurturing new Australian talent and working them both locally and internationally.

Speaking to TMN, Girgis said one of his priorities is to ensure the label’s artists get the most out of their contracts.

“My focusmoving forward will be extremely artist-focused both from a deal sense and A&R/development sense,” said Girgis. “Shock is a proudly independent/pro-artist label and with all my management experience I believe I will be able to deliver an incredibly collaborative creative partnership with all of our current and future artists.”

Girgis told TMN that his new head role at Shock doesn’t mean a change of label for the artists he manages: “Both Little Sea and Chance Waters have signed multi-album deals with their respective majors,” he said. “Regardless though, I’m not always sure it’s in the best interest of the artist to have their label both release and manage them.”

Girgis said 2016 will see a strengthened focus on Shock’s heavy music imprint Halfcut Records (Caulfield, Gallows, While She Sleeps, Belle Haven). “I’ve had multiple meetings with our artists and managers and everybody is firing on all cylinders,” hesaid. “Some already have great international plans ready for the New Year and are prepared to take the next step along with the label. So watch this space!”

Shock’s former Label Director Mick Tarbuk has started his new role as Country Manager Australia for global independent digital distributor and label services providerBelieve Digital.

The company has offices in over 20 territories and has just entered Australia. From its new Melbourne office Tarbuk will take care of label acquisitions, A&R and managing existing clients. He is currently in Europe on business.