Column: Christmas in April

The Record Store Day list of releases was announced this past week.

Though Record Store Day isn’t until April 21, excitement has already ensued. Desired lists of albums, singles and splits are being jotted down by anticipating customers.
 
Don’t think of it as crazy. Think of it as a lot of nerdy music lovers making their presents list for a Christmas in April.

Okay, maybe you can think of it as a little crazy.

But the true essence of Record Store Day is something everyone should participate in and enjoy.

Record Store Day is an official celebration of independent music stores and the culture that surrounds them. In a world of instant digital gratification, music stores have become an endangered species. Rather than walking to the nearby store and browsing its selection, the simplicity and convenience of Amazon, iTunes and illegal downloading have overwhelmed the music market.

Though I indulge in online music consumption, whether through Amazon or listening on Spotify, I realize the damage it does to a suffering, and beautiful, forum. Having a day set aside biannually to celebrate the unique institution of independent record stores is a refreshing and exciting idea.

Record Store Day began in 2007, and its quick growth has led to more than 700 independent record stores participating nationally this year.

Another aspect of Record Store Day is that not only are the consumers celebrating, but the musicians, as well.

Hundreds of artists release limited edition singles and splits specifically for Record Store Day.

This year, that list includes a 10” LP of “Do Ya Thing” by André 3000, James Murphy and Gorillaz, a 7” 45 of St. Vincent’s “Krokodil” and a 7” 45 of “Rocky Ground” by Bruce Springsteen, all of whom are Sic of Elephants column alumni. Other artists’ releases range from Aretha Franklin and Otis Redding to Death Cab for Cutie and Neon Indian.

Besides resulting in the products themselves, Record Store Day is a time when many record stores put on in-store performances and throw parties.

Last year, Bloomington’s own Landlocked Music did just that. They served drinks, disc jockeys spun records and local bands such as Sleeping Bag performed.

Record Store Day is a time for people to interact with fellow music lovers, hear new music and purchase awesome releases.

Though Bloomington might not be a large city, we do have three independent record stores. Tracks, Landlocked Music and TD’s CDs and LPs will all be participating this year.

On April 21, people all around the country will be lining up at their local record stores to rejoice on Record Store Day, and maybe this year, you could be one of them.

­— bfinkel@indiana.edu