The long-awaited official Record Store Day list was finally released a few weeks ago, and I am so (SO!) excited about it. I have yet to experience an in-person Record Store Day shopping spree, but I think this might finally be the year I make the trip to some of my favorite local record stores. None of the releases for RSD are sold online, meaning you have to go out and support a store near you, which is one of the main things that I love about it. The list has over 400 titles that will be available in a number of formats, mostly including traditional LP and 7” vinyl. There are TONS of incredible releases on this list, and whether it is a newly remastered edition of a favorite classic album or a soundtrack to a movie that you’ve always loved, there is something for everyone. Below is a quick rundown of the event, and some of the releases that I’m most excited about. Be sure to get out and shop local this Record Store Day on April 20th, 2024!
Who:
There are, no joke, hundreds of artists and groups with releases for this year’s RSD. Newer artists like Ashnikko, Sabrina Carpenter, Laufey, and Wallows are part of this year’s release, as well as plenty of classic artists like The Doors, Frank Zappa, The Cure, Kate Bush, and The Beatles. There are also some amazing soundtracks being released this year; Some of my favorites include the ‘Lost In Translation’ soundtrack, the ‘Dazed and Confused’ soundtrack, and a 12” picture disc of Wicked’s ‘Defying Gravity!’ There truly is something for everyone here!
What:
If you’ve never heard of RSD before this article, no worries. Here’s a brief history for you to brush up your knowledge a little before you get out and shop! Record Store Day was created in 2007 in celebration of independent record stores and the culture of record lovers. Since then, there has been an RSD every year– even the nationwide pandemic lockdown didn’t stop RSD; instead, they launched 3 smaller drops during the year to keep groups smaller. Music lovers everywhere can come together on RSD and celebrate the long-loved art of vinyl records. As I mentioned, RSD releases are not available online, so it forces you to get out and experience the beauty of a stocked record store in person.
When:
The official release of the RSD titles is on April 20th, 2024. However, if you are unable to get out and shop on the drop date, you may still be in luck. Many stores do not sell out of their entire RSD drops on the release date, and will continue to sell the leftover records after the day is done. Some stores may hold records for you, but it’s not a guarantee. It’s always a good idea to call ahead if you’re looking for a specific title.
Where:
Hundreds of stores across the country participate in RSD. Below are some local Indiana stores that will be participating in RSD 2024– I highly recommend supporting local businesses whenever possible! (Note: Not every record store in Indiana participates in RSD. Always check by calling your local store and double-checking their policies. This should not be taken as a definitive and final list of participating stores.)
Landlocked Music – Bloomington, IN
115 S. Walnut Ave. Bloomington, IN 47404
Definitely my favorite record spot in Bloomington. This place has everything, from local artists’ releases to the oldies you forgot you loved. In addition to vinyl, they sell cassettes and CDs, so you’re bound to find something you’ll enjoy. I recommend making the steep investment in their $5 mystery boxes– it feels like Christmas every time!
Tracks Records – Bloomington, IN
415 E. Kirkwood Ave, Bloomington, IN 47408
Electric Key Records – Franklin, IN
65 East Jefferson St, Franklin, IN 46131
Karma Columbus – Columbus, IN
1645 N National Rd, Columbus, IN 47201
Indy CD & Vinyl – Indianapolis, IN
806 Broad Ripple Ave. Indianapolis, IN 46220
Another store I personally love. This was the first record store I ever visited, and it remains one of my favorites to this day. The staff are incredibly friendly, and the store always has the best music playing. They have plenty of new and used LP at great prices, and even sell fun t-shirts, mugs, and local coffee beans on occasion! It might be a bit of a drive from Bloomington, but it’s 100% worth the gas.
LUNA Music – Indianapolis, IN
5202 North College Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46220
Why:
I mean… why not? Jokes aside, collecting vinyl is a super fun hobby that I’ve picked up in the last few years, and it’s a great way to support your community’s local scene. Record shops are a cool place to hang out with friends, discover new artists, and find out about local shows that may be happening near you. Sure, streaming may be the easiest way to listen to your favorite tunes, but there’s just something special about cracking open a record player and spinning your favorite tracks. There’s vinyl out there for everyone, no matter what your taste may be. My first record purchase back in early high school was Harry Styles’ self-titled album, and it thrilled me to have a tangible version of his music. After that, it was impossible for me to pass up on a record of my favorite album. My most recent purchase was a used copy of ‘Snoopy and His Friends’ by The Royal Guardsmen, which is a half-spoken, half-sung story of Snoopy and his battles against the infamous Red Baron. This record only set me back $1, and it is now one of my prized possessions. Record collecting is a great hobby, and it doesn’t have to be crazy expensive, either.
How:
Mark your calendar for April 20th, request off of work, make plans with friends, and get out to shop. The best way to participate is by showing up to your favorite stores with an empty bag and an open wallet. Even if you’re strapped for cash, showing up and supporting your local record store owners is a great thing to do, and helps solidify their place in the community. If you can’t make it out that day, be sure to check the official RSD website and social media pages for sponsored giveaways!
My Must-Buys This RSD:
I know everyone reading this is thinking, “Gosh, I wonder what records Brylee is interested in buying this year? If only I knew…” Well, fear not, dear reader. I’ve taken the time to scroll through the hundreds of titles being released this year and marked the ones I’m most excited to see. While I know I can’t afford all of these records on a college student budget, it’ll be nice to at least hold them in my hands for a minute and dream of our future lives together. Or something like that…
In no particular order, here are my most anticipated releases!
Lost In Translation (Music From The Motion Picture Soundtrack) – Various Artists
Bury the Hatchet (The Complete Sessions) – The Cranberries
Songs to No One – Jeff Buckley & Gary Lucas
It Was A Short Summer, Charlie Brown – Vince Guaraldi
The 1975 Live at Gorilla – The 1975
Snake Eyes – 100 Gecs
ITEIAD Sessions – The Japanese House
At the Live Inn, Tokyo ‘86 – Nico
PUNK 45: Kill The Hippies! Kill Yourself! – Various Artists
For more information and a complete list of the RSD releases, head to the official RSD website. https://recordstoreday.com/Home
