Aberdeen prepares for Record Store Day
Sales of records have gone through the roof in recent years as music fans appreciate the analogue sound and the tactile feel of vinyl. It’s no secret that vinyl is much more collectible, and the covers just look so much better at full size. Record Store Day is a twice annual event to celebrate the culture of the independently owned record stores. The day brings together stores from around the world with fans and artists.
Many artists release records specifically for Record Store Day. These are only distributed to shops participating in the event. Three Aberdeen shops are taking place in the event on Saturday 12th June. Chameleon Records, Red Robin Records and Maidinvinyl.
Chameleon Records
We spoke to Terry Charleton who’ll be helping owner Michael Moloney at Chameleon Records at it’s new home. He told us, “Chameleon will be hosting its 7th RSD and this year they have relocated to inside Holburn HiFi. It’s the ideal partnership for music lovers. Previous RSD has seen fans queuing from the wee small hours but with Covid restrictions this is replaced by a virtual queue where people book a time slot to visit the shop via the website.”
“One of the appeals of the day is chatting to al the customer about their purchases as they always super knowledgeable and even what you think is the most obscure release will have someone keen to grab it.”
“There will be some fantastic releases this year. Elton John’s is putting out his never previously released Regimental Sgt.Zippo. There’s two live albums from The Police and brilliant 12” picture discs from U2 and The Cure and a live album from Fontaines DC. In addition a more mainstream artist release sees Ariana Grande releasing a live album on vinyl for the first time. This is very limited and will be in high demand.”
Red Robin Records
Red Robin Records on Correction Wynd is also taking part in Record Store Day on Saturday. They’ll be open from 8am and will be on a first come first served basis with only one person allowed in the store at a time.
Owner Nick Duthie told us, “We are excited firstly that RSD is able to run this year. Vinyl lovers will continue to have the opportunity to buy some fantastic new records as well as supporting all the small businesses in Aberdeen partaking in RSD.”
“In regard to albums there are so many great ones on the list. However, there are a few I’m especially excited for. Prince’s The Truth has its first release on vinyl. Also Belle and Sebastian’s The Boy with the Arab Strap on coloured vinyl for the first time. Lounge at the Edge of Town have a self-titled release. Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds are releasing a greatest hits on coloured vinyl called Back The Way We Came: Vol 1 (2011-2021). There is a coloured three disc version of The Matrix Soundtrack. Finally, Primal Scream have a 15 year anniversary extended version of their classic, Riot City Blues.”
Aberdeen’s Record Stores
Aberdeen has number of fantastic independent record stores that stock great vinyl all year round. Therefor you have a load of choice depending on your particular taste. These include:
| Aberdeen Vinyl Records | 101 Union St, Aberdeen AB11 6BD |
| Maidinvinyl Records | 7 Rosemount Viaduct, Aberdeen AB25 1NE |
| Spin Records | 10 Littlejohn St, Aberdeen AB10 1FG |
| Forecast Records | 13A Belmont St, Aberdeen AB10 1JR |
| Chameleon Records | 441 Holburn St, Aberdeen AB10 7GU |
| Red Robin Records Vinyl Cafe | 13 Correction Wynd, Aberdeen AB10 1HP |
Finally, thanks so much to the teams at Red Robin Records and Chameleon. They’ve given us a real taste of Record Store Day. It’s sure to be a huge day for all the record stores in Aberdeen. If you’re taking part this Saturday, make sure to plan ahead and remember to wear a mask.
POST have set up a playlist to support Aberdeen musicians. A place where you can find new music by Aberdeen and NE Scotland’s very talented singers, songwriters, bands and producers. Read the story about why we made it happen.
