Avant Records

Avant Records was a record label based in Japan specializing in avant-garde and experimental music. It was started by composer and saxophonist John Zorn in 1992 with Kazunori Sugiyama, as an offshoot of the Tzadik label. Over the course of its existence, Avant Records released 80 albums before Zorn started Tzadik Records in 1995.

Some notable releases from Avant Records include Naked City's "Heretic," "Grand Guignol," "Radio," and "Absinthe," as well as various tribute albums like "In His Own Sweet Way: A Tribute to Dave Brubeck." The label also featured works from artists such as DNA, Buckethead, Fushitsusha, Anton Fier, Blind Idiot God, Anthony Coleman, Peter Garland, David Shea, George Lewis, Lee Hyla, John Oswald, Zeena Parkins, Dave Soldier, David Weinstein, Min Xiao-Fen and many more.

With a focus on pushing boundaries and exploring new sonic territories through innovative compositions and performances, Avant Records played a significant role in promoting avant-garde music during its time. Although it is no longer active today, Avant Records's legacy lives on through its diverse catalog of groundbreaking recordings that continue to inspire musicians and listeners alike.