Juno Award-winning musician Dan Mangan recently announced the first release from his fledgling Madic Records, a new boutique record label nestled under the Arts&Crafts umbrella. A former Torontonian, Mangan now lives on the West Coast, and has signed Astral Swans as the first Madic Records band. The Calgary-based artist, otherwise known as Matthew Swann, will offer up his debut album in 2014.

We tracked down Mangan to ask him a few questions about his new project.

What inspired you to start your own label?

I think I genuinely enjoy the business side of things more than many musicians. Not that I like the [BS] part of the music industry, nobody likes feeling used. But I like the idea that bands that actually make thoughtful and artful music can use the industry to their means rather than the other way around. I've been lucky to work with really amazing people—people I consider very close friends or extended family. It seemed like the logical next step to help music I believe in get more exposure.

What do you hope to accomplish with the project?

My goals are pretty modest. I doubt I’ll release much more than an album a year. I just want an avenue from which I can curate music that I feel strongly about. I won’t be prowling around hunting bands. Astral Swans fell in my lap organically, and with every step forward it felt right in my gut. I’d like that experience to set the tone for the label.

So what is your job with Madic then?

I guess we’ll find out. I already worry I’ve bitten off more than I can chew, as my life was already insane. But I’m excited, and it keeps feeling like the thing to do.

And how did the Astral Swans signing happen?

I met Matthew probably six years ago. He was playing bass in a band called Hot Little Rocket. He let me crash on his floor one of the very first times I played in Calgary. He’s a sweetheart. He always made music I liked, but this particular batch of songs just hit me in the right place.

How is this going to impact your other gig — award-winning musician?

It’ll all probably crash in flames. I’ll be hanging musicians by the ankles from the top balcony of the Hollywood Hotel in a cocaine-fueled frenzy screaming “SINGLES. GIVE ME SINGLES. HITS!”

Speaking of which, how is the new album coming?

It’s the best thing I’ve ever done. It’s nearly done.