Caribou Records is an independent record label based in Whitehorse, Yukon.

It was born when founding partners David Petkovich, and Bob Hamilton decided to produce the territory’s first commercially released compilation, The Yukon Collection. The sampler was used to promote the diversity and quality of northern artists, and as a stepping stone for the production of other full length albums, now numbering over a dozen with three new projects slated for this coming year.

Caribou Records looks after northern distribution on behalf of these projects, and has developed a solid relationship over the years with Festival Distribution of Vancouver to handle our national distribution.

The main focus of Caribou is to produce recordings for local musicians and support the growth of a viable recording industry in the Yukon. The local purchasing support has been excellent, fuelled by vibrant interest in the arts and the fact Caribou offers quality recordings. The label also acts as production house making events happen for our artists and the community at large. David also manages a few of the groups, acts as road manager for tours, and is an all around great guy to speak with about the industry-attending many showcases, seminars, and music industry trade shows.

Recently, Caribou has begun to look outside of the territory for new projects. The arrival last summer of Cuban group- Valle Son, resulted in a whirlwind 3 day recording produced by Jay Burr due out spring of 2001.

Bob Hamilton is a long time musician in the Yukon playing guitar, mandolin, and bass. He is also owner of Old Crow Recording. Producer, engineer, and guest musician to many groups, Bob’s influence on the local scene is far reaching. With four Juno nominations and one Juno award so far, Bob’s talents are put to great use in the Yukon music scene.

Kristina Mercs has worked with David at Caribou Records off and on for the last five years. She works as album production coordinator, concert producer, tour organizer, promoter, and carries out office support services. Kristina is also an avid photographer, writer, traveller, and dancer. This culture maven thoroughly enjoys the broad arts scene in the Yukon through her work with Caribou Records.