July 23, 2005
BY TODD MARTENS

FOCUS ON REDEYE: Redeye Distribution in Haw River, N.C., continues to ramp up its roster of artist-run labels, having reached an agreement with the Proclaimers' Persevere Records. The Scottish duo will issue a new album, "Restless Soul," Sept. 6.

Redeye will distribute the act's previous album, 2003's "Born Innocent," which had been handled by the Warner-owned Alternative Distribution Alliance. Redeye also recently struck deals with Juliana Hatfield's Ye Olde Records and All for One Music, the label started by Go-Go's bassist Kathy Valentine.

In other Redeye pickups, the company has signed U.S. distribution deals with Arena Rock Recording and the recently formed Expunged Records, both based in Portland, Ore.

The pop-focused Arena Rock has issued recordings from the likes of the Autumn Defense, Calla and Elf Power. The label will have new releases this fall from atmospheric rock six-piece the Swords and the folksy Talkdemonic. ADA previously distributed Arena Rock.

Expunged was started last year by entertainment attorney Anthony Davis. This fall, the label will issue a tribute to the late Elliott Smith, featuring a number of acts from Portland, Smith's hometown. Contributors include baroque pop outfit the Decemberists, pop act the Helio Sequence, rock group the Thermals and hip-hop duo Lifesavas.