This Saturday will see the return of Record Store Day - an annual music event held every April to celebrate the cultural significance of the independently owned record store.
The international event brings together artists and fans in record stores across the world - including 260 across the UK - and sees music lovers snap up limited edition releases from some of the biggest artists and musicians. With vinyl records seeing a huge resurgence of late, outselling CDs for the first time in 35 years last year, this year's event will be seeking to build on the uptick in popularity.
If you've ever ventured out into the Northern Quarter early doors on the day itself, you'll be familiar with the sight of vinyl lovers and long-term collectors queuing down the street, as they patiently wait for Manchester's much-loved record stores to open their doors, so they can bag releases pressed specifically for the occasion.
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What is Record Store Day?
Conceived in 2007 as a way to get people back into record shops and start collecting vinyl again, Record Store Day is a celebration of the record store and its cultural impact. Now in it's 16th year, the annual event is widely considered to be one of the driving forces behind the recent vinyl resurgence and has helped turnaround the fortunes of many independent record stores in the UK and further afield.
The day is marked by the release of limited edition releases, in-store events and live concerts in shops up and down the country. Here in Manchester, collectors usually head to the Northern Quarter, but there's several other stores dotted across Greater Manchester where you can pick up new releases and classic albums that haven't been available for years.
Who are the ambassadors for Record Store Day 2023?
Earlier this year, it was announced that Manchester's own, The 1975, would act as Record Store Day UK's official ambassadors. Following on from ambassadors including Taylor Swift, Sir Elton John and Noel Gallagher, the band will be flying the flag for the 'unique culture and heritage' of indie record stores.
To mark the occasion, the four-piece will be releasing a live performance with the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra on vinyl for the first time. Recorded back in 2016, the double LP features tracks from the band's early days including 'chocolate' and 'Somebody Else'.
Speaking about the role, frontman Matty Healy said: "The guys and I are really proud to be ambassadors for Record Store Day this year. Independent record stores are the lifeblood of the music industry and have played a crucial role in our story so far. It couldn’t be more important to support their vital community and culture.”
How can I find out what records are available?
Every year, hundreds of limited edition records are made available on Record Store Day, and this year is no different. And it's worth noting that Record Store Day releases are only available in-store through partnering shops.
However, due to the high volume of releases, it is not possible for every shop to carry every title, so organisers are encouraging those heading down to check in with record stores directly through their full stock listing,
The Record Store Day website has helpfully put together a full list of all the records available this year here, as well as a shop locator.
What's happening in Manchester?
With a strong music heritage and healthy crop of record shops, Manchester likes to go out for Record Store Day. Having amassed a loyal following over the years, all eyes will be on Piccadilly Records on Oldham Street and there handpicked selection of just under 300 releases.
They'll be open from 8am and they have advised people to get there earlier as the queue usually starts on the Friday morning. Back in 2019, queues actually began to form a full day before the music event even began.
On top of that, they'll also be hosting some very special instore entertainment including a stellar DJ line-up including Jason Boardman, Marc Riley, Bay Bryan, Jenna G, Mel Pop and Patrick Ryder.
Round the corner, Eastern Bloc Records, owners have made the decision to not participate in the usual RSD stock, but don't worry because they're still going ahead with their all-day party.
Meanwhile, at Vinyl Exchange, they'll be publishing their full list of records the night before - to avoid disappointment for anything that doesn’t arrive - and they'll also be happy to take queries by phone or email. The all import details - doors will open at 9 and it's a first-come-first- served deal where you can buy as much as you like but only one of each item.
And if you're heading to Vinyl Revival, make sure to check out their website for their full stock listing for RSD 2023. Their release for this year is The Hoax LP on red vinyl with Mike Joyce.
Music lovers Paradise, aka Tasty Records in Altrincham, will be showcasing some of the hottest upcoming vinyl DJ talent from 10am until 8pm, playing a mix of genres with some RSD releases snuck in too, while Wax and Beans in Bury they'll be open from 8am and are asking people to create a 'want list' via its website and any remaining stock will go online on Monday 24 April at 8pm.
Record Store Day takes place this Saturday, April 23. Stuck in a queue? Spotted a celebrity guest appearance? Tag us in your photos on Twitter @citylifemanc and we'll share your updates.
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