Rise Records’ Founder Is Also Avid Surfer of Oregon’s Freezing Waters

Running a successful, up-and-coming indie label is a '25/8/366' job. But despite his dedication to his label, Rise Records founder Craig Ericson finds time to do things outside of music.

"I really like to surf," Ericson told Noisecreep. "I surf in Oregon's frigid waters. But it's nice and warm with a wetsuit. I also snowboard once in a while."

In addition to loving the Portland Trailblazers' NBA team -- "Brandon Roy is the man," Ericson beamed -- he is a family man. "I have a wonderful wife and an 8-year-old boy. I also really like to travel. We went to Italy not too long ago and had an amazing time," he revealed.

Ericson has been able to work on Rise as his full-time job, because he has carefully cultivated a roster of hot and hip bands that connect with the kids and that grow with the label. He has managed to push the label forward as a brand, much like Trustkill and Ferret.

"I guess it's because of the bands I'm signing," Ericson said, theorizing about the label's success. "A label is only as good as its roster. I'm really excited that we're in this situation. I couldn't be more pleased. Rise has an amazing roster of bands, and we're very appreciative that we get to release their records. We might have another big surprise this year as well. I can't say yet though."

Check back to find out what that surprise is...eventually!