Vinyl Love This Weekend

This weekend sees the sixth national vinyl love in known as Record Store Day. Established in 2007 as an annual celebration of independent music retailers, labels and music it is now an established event with artists producing one-off tracks especially to release on the day. Limited editions, one-off pressings, in-store performances, D.J. sets rarities: it is a vinyl junkies dream weekend and anyone in Liverpool who wants to get involved should head for 3 Beat or Probe who are the two local retailers taking part. Our resident roving reporter Rez asked them about the event and what plans they had.

Rez: How long have you been involved in record store day?

3 Beat: About three years now

Probe: I think 2009 was the first one we did, or was it 2008. Either way it was 2010 when it started to get bigger and 2011 when it really went ballistic. Here’s hoping it stays at that level.

Rez: Are you seeing more of an interest in independent music?

3 Beat : Yes, definitely. People are definitely seeing vinyl as something that is collectible again. Its been on the rise for at least three years and is gaining momentum every year.

Probe: I think that interest never went away,  it was just lying dormant for a while…

Rez: Is the return of vinyl a real phenomenon or just hype?

3 Beat: In terms of commercial dance music it probably isn’t what it was in its heyday, but if you look at electronic music, which is something we deal in, then its definitely taking off. For instance you have someone like 4-Tet who will release a projects on vinyl months before he licenses it to a download site. Its great for collectors and music fans who want to own something more than just the music.

Probe: Well, vinyl’s always been way cooler than any of its attempted replacements so it was bound to have a resurgence eventually. That’s why we’ve always kept it at the core of our business. Ask the yoof, they know it’s cool. As do most of the old farts (like us.) I dunno what makes it cool; it just is Daddy-o.

Rez: Do you have anything special planned for the day?

3 Beat: 4 DJ sets, three from local jocks and one very special guest who we will keep secret until the day. We were really lucky and managed to get all the things from the distributors that we wanted, so we have a lot of great stuff for the people coming to get themselves something. It all starts at 9am,. Be early!

Probe: Get up at stupid o’clock to get in prompt to face the madness, which is a fun madness, I hasten to add. There are loads of wild releases for all and sundry. We’ve got Probe branded bottles of beer to give away – proper good ale it is as well, so get down early before we drink it all.

More information: http://www.recordstoreday.co.uk/

3B Records5 Slater Street Liverpool L1 4BW.
Phone: 0151 3537027
Website:  www.3brecords.co.uk

Probe Retail Unit 1 The Bluecoat School Lane Liverpool L1 3BX.
Phone: 0151 708 8815
Website:  www.probe-records.com