Music Monday: Record Store Day

For Record Store Day this year (which was Saturday, so I apologize for my lateness), R.E.M released two 'Unplugged' performances that were seen on MTV in 1991 and 2001. Included on the 4-LP set are several unaired tracks, including what's being called "a more somber version" of 87's The One I Love. The digital downloads and cd versions will be available on May 20th if you're too cool for vinyl.

There was also a special edition of Nirvana's Pennyroyal Tea from the band's last studio album, In Utero. It was originally scheduled for release this month, 20 years ago, but it was abandoned in the wake of Kurt's death, so this is pretty friggin' historic if you care at all about music.

There was also a re-release of Oasis' Supersonic on 12" and as well as singles and re-releases from The Beach Boys, Chvrches, Joy Division, LCD Soundsystem, and a very rare limited-edition Paul Weller 7". If you manage to get your hands on it, I'd just like to smell it.  I promise to wear gloves.

On a personal note, though due to limited funds I was unable to participate this year, things like Record Store day are a BIG DEAL. If you love music, you should be supporting your local independent music stores. Don't get me wrong, I'm all for the convenience of iTunes and digital downloads, but I think it's really preventing the younger generation from being party to the joy of spending an afternoon and really digging into a new album by a band you love. There is just something amazing about looking through the liner notes, reading lyrics, appreciating the art and photography, and just letting the whole thing wash over you. These types of stores aren't just selling you music, they are selling you an experience. Don't let them go the way of the dinosaur.  Art is to be cherished.

I've said my piece, now start listening. 

Damon Albarn, The Beach Boys, Chvrches, Edwyn Collins, Disclosure, Fleetwood Mac, Haim, Joy Division, Kings Of Leon, Metronomy, OutKast, Slipknot and The Rolling Stones,
Read more at http://www.nme.com/news/various-artists/76224#1UXrgszXkWHOYJKr.99

Damon Albarn, The Beach Boys, Chvrches, Edwyn Collins, Disclosure, Fleetwood Mac, Haim, Joy Division, Kings Of Leon, Metronomy, OutKast, Slipknot and The Rolling Stones,
Read more at http://www.nme.com/news/various-artists/76224#1UXrgszXkWHOYJKr.99