Armand Van Helden: 2 Future 4 U (Armed)

A YEAR AGO, Armand Van Helden was signed to Ruffhouse/Columbia. Now the DJ/producer is releasing 2 Future 4 U through Armed, his own fledgling indie based in Burlington, Massachusetts. Self-empowerment or last resort? Either way, it's a sad indication of house music's perceived nonviability in its homeland that no major label made Van Helden an offer he couldn't refuse — and doubly depressing because 2 Future has already proven itself with the success of the single 'U Don't Know Me', which has been dominating international dance floors for months and hit No. 1 on the U.K. pop charts.