If you pay attention to the comedy industry you are probably aware of a handful of record labels devoted to solely releasing comedy albums. The number is nowhere near as many as music labels out there but it's still as vital to the business. Jim Serpico, the manager/producer behind such TV shows like Rescue Me, Maron, and Sex&Drugs&Rock&Roll has announced that he's creating a new record label called Virtual Comedy Network (VCN).
Serpico has made some major moves in the industry the last few months, he co-founded Apostle Pictures with Denis Leary in 1994 and was its President until 2018 as he embarked out to start Milestone TV & Film, Inc. A production company with a first-look deal with FX Networks as he continues to manage the careers of longtime stand-up comedians on the Milestone roster. In addition, VCN will serve as the label aspect of Serpico's business allowing him to release comedy records. "It has always been a dream of mine to start a label that specializes in comedy," Jim Serpico said. "Laughing is such an important part of life. I look forward to collaborating with some of the smartest, most talented comedians in the business so that we can help spread laughter throughout the world."
Serpico currently has plans for a release slate of up to a dozen comedy albums per year. The first for VCN is the one and only Jim Breuer and his album Live From Portland. Recorded at the Helium Comedy Club in (you guessed it) Portland, OR, released this Friday (April 5th), and available on all digital platforms. Live From Portland is an entire album of new material from Breuer in his unique voice, joking about his recent tour with Metallica, aging, and the best part about getting a colonoscopy. "Jim Serpico has been a huge influence on my career, since I’ve been working with him. I've never been happier or more focused in my life," says Breuer. "This comedy album was a smart approach to yet another launching pad of branding more of my comedy, and I’m very excited for the release!"