Now in its eight year, Record Store Day returns once again this April, celebrating the input of independently owned record stores to the music business. This annual stake in the music industry landscape brings together artists, fans, consumers, and not forgetting the stores themselves – all for a jolly old party.
In 2014 the British Phonographic Industry announced that for the first time in almost 20 years, the UK music industry sold over one million vinyl records – over a 50% increase vs 2013. This upward sales trend is indicative of a resurgence in good old-fashioned music consumerism, for good old-fashioned records. Ask any vinyl junkie where the thrill lies, and they’ll tell you it’s all in the quality of the audio output. Whether this is true or not is up for debate, but let’s be honest, the sound of a vinyl crackling gives us a warm, sepia tinged feeling inside.
So what’s in store (literally) for us in 2015? As usual there’s a plethora of unique, exclusive and rare releases only available through participating stores across the U.K. From Chvrches new 7” single, to David Bowie’s Picture Disk version of Changes, expect the usual queuing and high demand across London’s array of stores. East London fan favourite Rough Trade is reliably stocking a huge range, perfect for hours of perusing. Cashbah Records hosts an in store performance with local band the Sonic Jewels, exclusive merch and competitions. Flashback Records in Crouch End has ABJECTS playing, along with a giveaway of limited edition screen prints. Soul Brothers opens early for festivities including a show and signing by Swedish jazz singer Cecilia Stalin. Additional events are still being announced, so keep your eye on the Record Store Day website for further updates and information. From indie lovers to jazz aficionados, there’s something for everyone. What better way to spend a Saturday?
Sat 18th April 2015
Various Stores, London Wide
www.recordstoreday.co.uk