I got a question via an online service, a few weeks ago, if I was the same Joakim who was responsible for A West Side Fabrication.
I replied that I was, but that it was no longer a full-time job and that I’m not dependent on how things go buissnes wise, that from almost going bankrupt I see this as a very pleasant and fun extra occupation etc etc.
I then received this nice answer (which makes me both happy and grateful):
Hi Joakim,
Interesting to hear what had happened as I did wonder. I’m glad you weren’t ruined and that you are still ok and having fun. I still listen a lot and highly value a lot of the music that was on your label (Tommy 16, Hardy Nilsson, Bear Quartet, Puffin, Blissful, Fireside, A Shrine, Stardog, Popundret, Carpe Wade, A Shrine, Mufflon 5, Blissful, Blthe, Blue). The big 5 for me were always Bear Quartet, Puffin, Mufflon 5 , Blissful, Backfish and A Shrine (until Unisex) but so much of the big 5 output still means a lot to me, in fact they all have albums in my top 50 of all time.
So I really hope you see that because of you and what you have done you have made at least my life a million times better. I was a kid when it first started so my Mother ordered the first few but the reason I’m ordering the items now is because they were out of stock or (in the case of Bear Quartet) the originals have been worn out.
We used to talk a bit and met when you came to London and you introduced me to Bear Quartet. I hung out with them all night and they were amazing, especially Peter and Matthias. I even stayed in Peter’s room as I had missed the last train home. I only found you through John Peel and Sticky records but so glad I did.
I’m sure you have some very amazing stories to tell so if you are ever in the UK again then let me know. It would be good to catch up. The other name I remember is Paulina, in the days of pre-internet she sent me some photos of the bands as I didn’t know what they looked like. I also wrote to Matthias and Peter for a while but lost contact. I see Matthias is doing ok with his solo work but hope Peter is too.
Anyway, I’m talking too much. Thanks once again for making my life so much better with all the work you did. Your work will always have an impact on my life so please take that as a compliment.
Thanks