I still take so much joy from scouring the shelves of independent record stores, but in this digitally-savvy age it sometimes seems like these hallowed retail heavens are a dying breed. But rock relics like myself have a reason to celebrate next month. April 18 isn’t just a Saturday: it’s also Record Store Day Australia.
Across the country The Leading Edge, JB Hi-Fi, Sanity, and many independent record stores will join in the fun with live performances, artist signings, competitions, and giveaways.
Kram from Spiderbait and Daryl Braithwaite are two local stars looking forward to the festivities.
“I still like having things on vinyl and I love record stores,” said Kram. “The whole experience of searching is probably more important than getting the stuff. I really dig record stores – I always will.”
“I had the thrill of being around in The Beatles period, and I remember specifically Sgt Pepper and being able to walk into a store, seeing the big promotion with people queued up – it was great! You connected with the music,” reminisced Daryl. “Then it was a thrill seeing my own stuff in the stores both in my Sherbet days and also with The Edge album. People would look at the cover, then look at me and recognise me – you don’t get this shopping experience online.”
You sure don’t! Make sure you head to your local record store on April 18 to join in the fun!
Image source: Record Store Day Australia website