Metroplex (record label)

Metroplex is an influential independent record label based in Detroit, Michigan, specializing in techno music. Founded in 1985 by Juan Atkins, one of the originators of techno, Metroplex is considered a cornerstone of the Detroit techno scene and a vital force in the genre's global development.

The label is known for its minimalist, futuristic sound, and its early releases helped define the distinctive Detroit techno aesthetic. Metroplex served as a platform for Atkins' own work, including tracks released under his Model 500 and Infiniti monikers, and also launched the careers of other notable techno artists such as Eddie Fowlkes, Kevin Saunderson (as Kreem), and Derrick May (as Rhythim Is Rhythim).

Metroplex's catalog is characterized by its raw, industrial rhythms, sparse melodies, and forward-thinking production techniques. The label's early records, often pressed in limited quantities, have become highly sought-after by collectors and DJs. Though its output has been sporadic at times, Metroplex continues to release music, maintaining its legacy as a key player in the techno world. The label’s minimalist black and white designs are also iconic and contribute to its overall aesthetic.