Our next California Future playlist comes courtesy of Teenage Teardrops’ Cali Thornhill DeWitt.

A red-hot, grass roots independent label that doesn’t just throw out discs but books, shirts and whatever the hell they like, Teenage Teardrops is an impressive emblem of no-compromise DIY.

From noise-punk by Issei Sagawa to jazz and LA gods No Age, the label is stalking its 50th release. “We put out whatever we want, whenever we can afford it,” says Cali. “There are no rules but there are financial constraints… If money was flowing like water I would buy a building by the LA River and turn it into a self-contained pressing plant and crank shit out everyday.”

The following playlist is made of heroes, friends and favourites, featuring a few go-hard-or-go-home videos directed by DeWitt himself (you won’t miss ’em). Take away some words of wisdom as heavy as his selection: “Build your own reality and live in it.”

Tidal Wave by Soiled Mattress and the Springs
“Early Teardrops release by this heavy jazz trio from NYC.”

Warni Warni by Omar Souleyman
“A hero of mine from Syria, I had the honour of directing this video.”

Ha by Juvenile
“My favourite Juvenile track, inspirational to me and mine.”

Pimp the Pen by Lil Keke & DJ Screw
“Incredible live footage, the room is packed with true believers.”

Bank Head by Kelela & Total Freedom
“This is just from a couple months ago. The Kelela record just came out on Fade To Mind, my favourite American record label. This is her with Total Freedom, who I love so much and who compiled the Blasting Voice 2xLP that I got to release on TT a year ago.”

Drop Out by Crazy Band
“Crazy Band are the deepest TT family band.”

Fantasy by Hoax
“Extended family and a band that is going to be very major historically. They let me direct this video for them on the hottest day of the year.”

Janitor by Suburban Lawns
“Suburban Lawns live on Peter Iver’s New Wave Theater. Crucial LA History. Sue Tissue’s stage presence is a brick to the head.”

One Day by DJ Screw / UGK
“The Screwed up mix of UGK’s One Day. Almost 10 minutes long. Consistently one of my favourite things to listen to, particularly while riding my bike through traffic.”

The Formula by The D.O.C.
“If The D.O.C hadn’t flown through a windshield face first into a tree and ruined his voice, he’d be one of the biggest things to ever come out of LA. His album No One Can Do It Better is a true classic.”

Cutty Ranks Live at a PNP Rally 1986
“So tough, so rough. A perfect moment over the most classic, sleng teng.”

Dead Plane by No Age
“No Age performing Dead Plane. This song was on the 12″ we released on TT. More LA family and I give much respect to Dean and Randy for their creative arc and dedication to this city.”

Dying in the Pussy by Antwon
“Antwon is one of the most exciting rappers in America right now. I got to direct this video for him.”

(That Doesn’t Mean That I Don’t Have A) by Sun Foot
“I am honoured to have released an LP by Sun Foot on TT. Wonderful artists in their own lives, this video was made by the great Johanna Jackson.”

We Gotta Know by Cro Mags
“Classic all the way. Everyone should download singer John Josephs biography. The most entertaining book on tape ever.”

Anyone Who Knows What Love Is by Irma Thomas
“One of the most underrated singers of all time.”

Angel Baby by Rosie and the Originals
“Top 5 all time. Lowrider oldies por vida.”

Visit Teenage Teardrops’ website and online store
Visit Cali’s blog Witch Hat