Sarah Dougher Starts Women-Focused Label

Hoping to resurrect the feminist ideals of the now defunct Mr. Lady, singer/songwriter Sarah Dougher has started a new record label, Cherchez La Femme.

Initial releases from this independent Portland, Ore.-based label include a new record from Dougher (Harper's Arrow, due out June 21) and a compilation benefit CD that features tracks from Sleater-Kinney, The Decemberists, Le Tigre, the Indigo Girls, Tara Jane O'Neil and Pink Martini, among others.

Proceeds from the compilation — named Safe Haven at SMYRC and due out July 19 — will benefit Portland's Sexual Minority Youth Resource Center.

Cherchez La Femme will also release a not-yet-titled record by queer rapper Katastrophe in October.

The label's mission is to support women and gays working in the artistic and musical community, in hopes of a positive impact on mainstream culture. — Jenny Tatone [Wednesday, June 15, 2005]