Transgressive Records

Transgressive Records is a British independent label founded in 2004 by Toby L and Tim Dellow in London. It is home to Foals, The Orielles, Let's Eat Grandma, Dry Cleaning, Johnny Flynn, and Florence + The Machine (early work). Transgressive operates as a full-service independent with publishing, management, and label divisions. In 2026, Transgressive is appearing at Latitude Festival, continuing its involvement in the British festival circuit.

Transgressive built its reputation on the 2000s British indie rock revival. Its signing of Foals (whose albums Holy Fire and What Went Down became defining documents of 2010s British indie rock) established the label as a major force in UK independent music. Florence + The Machine's early work was released through Transgressive before she moved to a major label. The modern roster has expanded to include post-punk (Dry Cleaning), art pop (Let's Eat Grandma), and indie rock (The Orielles). Transgressive's full-service model (label, publishing, management) allows it to support artists across multiple aspects of their careers.

How Transgressive Operates

Transgressive runs dedicated A&R under founders Toby L and Tim Dellow from its London headquarters. The label operates as a full-service independent with publishing (Transgressive Publishing), management (Transgressive Management), and label divisions. This integrated model allows Transgressive to support artists across multiple aspects of their careers. The label's strength is its long-term artist development and its full-service infrastructure.

Why It Matters for Independent Artists

If you make indie rock, art pop, or alternative music, Transgressive is one of the most respected British independent labels. Its track record with Foals and Florence + The Machine (early) shows it can identify and develop artists who go on to global success. Its full-service model (label, publishing, management) provides comprehensive support.

Drawbacks and Things to Consider

• Highly selective: Transgressive signs very few artists each year.
• No unsolicited demos: Transgressive does not accept cold submissions.
• UK focus: Transgressive's primary signing activity is in the UK. US-based artists may find it less relevant.
• Full-service complexity: The integrated label, publishing, and management model can be complex to navigate.

Related Resources

• Record Label Contracts Explained - What a Transgressive deal contains
• Independent Labels vs Major Labels - The full-service indie model
• How to Get a Record Deal in 2026 - Building an indie profile in the UK
• Domino Recording Company - A related UK indie label
• Transgressive Records Official Site - Roster and releases