It's not a secret that some of the best music has emerged from Olympia's unique blend of long-time locals and Evergreen State College transplants.

Some of the best record labels and recording studios have emerged as well, from K Records to Kill Rock Stars and all the labors of love in between.

Now, the tide brings in a new label. With a mission to "foster and promote the incredible talent that exists in our area," Vital Records is well on its way.

"I've always been obsessed with music, particularly with recording and production," said Jim Porter, co-founder of Vital Records. "It's been my dream to have a record label for years."

Porter, together with friends Tom Smith and Jason Suko, who owns South Sound Sound, a recording studio in Shelton, have been working on Vital Records since May, fine-tuning details and immediately bringing in bands.

"There's this Bermuda triangle of hyper-talented musicians here," Porter said. "There's something magical about Oly that attracts all this world-class talent."

Hellbelly, The Hard Way, Shelby Williams, Sister Moon and Suko are all under the umbrella of Vital. Other artists like Full Moon Radio, Elbow Coulee and Bobby Williams are in possible negotiation.

"My impression is that they (Vital) are really genuine and really interested in what's going on musically in Olympia," said Ali Baker of Full Moon Radio.

Hellbelly is the first band to be released digitally on Vital, and songwriter/guitarist Brian Sparhawk (Fitz of Depression, Two Ton Boa, Resident Kings) tells me they stumbled upon the opportunity when meeting with Suko to record.

"We tried out two songs and it sounded phenomenal, so we went with the label," he said.

"I think the Olympia music scene is having new waves of bands come through and I'm excited about it," he continued. "Being older and knowing the scene ... it's gotten way more eclectic. Vital's mission statement is trying to find what they consider the best music in Olympia."

Goals for Vital Records are to create a worldwide artist network, to shoot videos of each band for YouTube circulation, and to have an artist-run, artist-owned label. A fully accessible recording studio in downtown Olympia is also part of the vision.

Vital Records founders have a combined background of business and music. Porter's experience in real estate and investment includes owning all three Lemongrass restaurants in Thurston County; he is also a musician and producer. Suko has years of music experience, including the studio, and is a graphic/web designer. Smith, who is retired from finance and insurance, has always had a love of live and recorded music and is able to spend his time scouting, booking and promoting.

For more information visit: www.vitalrecordsmusic.com.