Photo Credit: vinylrecords.free-jazz.net
Ah yes, the vinyl. It’s making a comeback. The turntables have managed to find their way out of the dusty corner in the attic and into the front room once again. It’s kind of a big deal. The vinyl played a huge part in the lives of past generations. Once a booming industry, producing millions of pounds a week.
The ever evolving production of records also turned out to be a catalyst for artistic album covers you see today, or sleeves as they were known back in the day. Albums, LPs and singles were being released; artists began to attempt to step out of the crowd and began to produce particularly vibrant sleeve covers. It was the best way to get your favourite band’s sounds into your home. However, It’s now transitioned into a unique and quirky way to listen to your favourite tunes as contemporary bands are still releasing vinyl records alongside the CD and online. The vinyl still has its uses for performances too with world renowned DJs like Jamie xx and Sven Vath using them during their live sets. I for one, couldn’t be happier for the vinyl revival.
The Vinyl Revival
Jack Page|10th August 2015
2014 saw the highest record sales (£20million) in twenty years with the trend continuing in 2015 with a 69% increase. So why is the vinyl having such a resurgence? Is it the hipsters of today trying to figure out another way to go against the grains of popular culture? Possibly. Although I say this, I’m quite fond of the unique crackling sound you only get from a record on the turntable. With our lazy technologically fuelled generation, it’s interesting to see such a need for the product. You actually have to get up, grab the record and place it on the turntable while delicately lowering the stylus, this means effort. The crackly echoing effect projected by the sound system is unique and thoroughly recognisable to any vinyl enthusiast.
So, I put it to you to get out there and to get hold of some records and give ‘em a spin. Spend a bit on a decent turntable, especially if you see yourself as quite the musical nerd. If you haven’t got a vinyl collection, then get one!