Sacred Bones Records

Sacred Bones Records is an American independent label founded in 2007 by Caleb Braaten in Brooklyn, New York. It focuses on dark, experimental, post-punk, and indie music. Sacred Bones is home to Crystal Stilts, Moon Duo, Uniform, Marching Church, and Alan Vega (catalog). The label has a strong visual identity and a curated roster, with 27 products listed in its 2026 releases collection. It is distributed by Secretly Distribution, placing it within the Secretly Group distribution network.

Sacred Bones built its reputation on a tightly curated aesthetic that spans post-punk, darkwave, gothic, and experimental music. Its visual identity (distinctive sleeve design) is as much a part of the brand as its sound. The label has released catalog material from Alan Vega (Suicide) and David Lynch, alongside new signings from the dark experimental underground. Its 2026 releases include deluxe collector's editions and graphic novel collaborations.

How Sacred Bones Operates

Sacred Bones runs a small, selective A&R operation from its Brooklyn headquarters. It is distributed by Secretly Distribution, giving it global physical and digital reach. The label's strength is its tightly curated aesthetic and visual identity. Its A&R favors artists with a distinct dark, experimental, or post-punk identity who fit the Sacred Bones visual and sonic world.

Why It Matters for Independent Artists

If you make post-punk, darkwave, gothic, or experimental music with a strong visual identity, Sacred Bones is one of the most respected independent labels in that niche. Its curated approach means its roster carries cultural weight within the dark experimental community.

Drawbacks and Things to Consider

• Highly selective: Sacred Bones signs very few artists each year.
• No unsolicited demos: Sacred Bones does not accept cold submissions.
• Aesthetic expectations: The label has a distinct visual and sonic identity. Music outside that aesthetic will not fit.
• Niche market: Dark experimental and post-punk is a dedicated but small market.

Related Resources

• Record Label Contracts Explained - What a Sacred Bones deal contains
• Independent Labels vs Major Labels - The niche independent model
• How to Get a Record Deal in 2026 - Building an experimental profile
• Secretly Group - Sacred Bones' distributor
• Sacred Bones Records Official Site - Roster and releases