GLASGOW’S hi-fi and home cinema specialists Loud & Clear will celebrate their 30th anniversary next month with a series of special events.
They will begin with the official launch of a vinyl LP with record label Last Night from Glasgow, with proceeds from sales going to the Beatson Cancer Charity.
The nine-track album, entitled 1030, celebrates emerging talent, Emma Dunlop, Louise Connell, Brontes and Sister John alongside Glasgow classics, The Muldoons, The Bluebells, Wotjek the Bear and The Cowboy Mouth.
Loud & Clear founder Allan Boyd said: “Throughout our 30-year history, we have worked closely with Scotland’s music scene, hosting album launches, playback nights and events bringing artists, record labels and music lovers together.
“The vinyl LP was the perfect way to celebrate our 30th birthday and Last Night from Glasgow’s 10th anniversary. It’s a celebration album with all proceeds going to a wonderful charity that has touched and supported so many of us over the years.”
Working in London early in his career, Boyd experienced some of the original developments in experiential retailing and private demonstration suites. He returned to Glasgow and saw an opportunity to bring the concept to his home city.
Boyd said: “We opened our doors on October 21, 1996, in Finnieston and we have not looked back. We still have original store and expanded into three neighbouring units, creating a two-floor showroom featuring dedicated demonstration studios, listening areas, a headphone bar and a dedicated jazz vinyl shop!”
Loud & Clear was built around the experience of listening rather than simply displaying equipment for sale. They wanted customers to be able to sit down, listen properly and to compare products and find the right system for the music they love.
Thirty years later, that philosophy remains at the heart of the business. Boyd said: “It’s been a fabulous 30 years. We’ve been incredibly fortunate to have such a knowledgeable and passionate team and we have seen the market change beyond recognition - the rise of vinyl and record players, the birth of Spotify and music streaming, and even a brief renaissance in cassettes.”
From vinyl and turntables to streaming, headphones and home cinema, the technology may have changed dramatically since 1996, but the principle behind Loud & Clear is still helping people experience their music at its best.
Beatson Cancer Charity corporate fundraiser, Heilidh Wilson said: “We’re incredibly grateful to Loud & Clear, Last Night from Glasgow and every artist involved in this very special album for choosing to support Beatson Cancer Charity.
“Every penny raised will help us continue providing vital care, support and hope to people affected by cancer across Scotland.
“It’s a fantastic example of how the power of music can bring people together and make a meaningful difference, and we’re delighted to be part of this celebration of Glasgow’s incredible music scene.”
Other anniversary events coming up for Loud & Clear are a special behind the scenes event with Scottish Opera, a big party for all previous, current and future clients and all staff, suppliers, collaborators and Scottish Music Industry friends, plus a range of special offers in stores.
You can purchase 1030 from Loud & Clear’s website.
