Medicine Hat music stores are dropping the needle in anticipation of Record Store Day

“Just the fact that people online see familiar names within the group that might not know each other gives them a chance to meet each other,” Snow said.

“Online groups and people like to give advice on building their collection, cleaning records, systems, stuff like that. It’s just building friendships and comaraderie,” she added.

“That’s what we like to see here.”

Vinyl records have once again spun into popularity, seeing a spike in popularity the last couple years.

In 2021, vinyl records overtook CD sales for the first time in over three decades.

Justin Hartman, an audio producer, said the average person might not be able to find a substantial difference in audio quality between vinyl records and digital music, but that the quality of equipment used like a turntable makes a huge difference.

“I think the reason why vinyl has kind of had this renaissance in the last few years is because people are starting to drift towards vinyl and away from digital,” Hartman said.

“I think people are craving a more real sound, a more authentic sound and I think that you get that from vinyl because you hear the scratches and it’s almost like you’re in the studio with the performer while they’re recording,” he added.

Hartman said that this could be due in part to nostalgia, but that the imperfections vinyl records have add to the charm and has helped the medium get their groove back and come full circle.

“The funny thing about vinyl is that it’s almost gone full circle now. 60s, vinyl. 70s, 8-track, 80s, cassettes. 90s, CDs and now into the 21st century, digital. Now, all of a sudden, 50 years later, we seem to be going back to where it all started,” Hartman said.

“This is why Record Store Day keeps on growing and growing. People are looking for that more realistic experience when they’re listening to music,” he said.

Snow said that sales do experience a small boon, but when the needle drops and the music is playing, it’s all about the community.

“I find that Record Store Day is not necessarily about the sales, it’s just about the celebration of collectors. I wouldn’t say it translates into big sales, it’s more about the community.”

Pop Rocks Candy and Vinyl and Sunrise Records will have heavy discounts and limited edition prints while Round Again Records will be open early.

Record Store Day will hit again on Black Friday.

by Adrian St.Onge

Medicine Hat music stores are dropping the needle in anticipation of Record Store Day

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