Wednesday, May 8, 2013

Record Store Day 2013 Commentary--A few tweaks are needed.



I am someone who is a big fan of Record Store Day (hence this blog) and I am also someone who is passionate about vinyl.  I want stores to succeed and I also want people to be able to purchase the items that they go into stores to buy.  With that being said, with the 6th Record Store Day behind us, here are some things that I personally feel could make the day better.  Feel free and comment/suggest other ideas of your own.

SUGGESTION #1 (Release Window Before/After RSD):

Labels need to curb releases the week before and after Record Store Day.   This year, stores were not only obligated to spend copious amounts of money to buy Record Store Day product, but also the releases for the Monday (UK) or Tuesday (US/Canada) before and after Record Store Day. 

Releases on 4/16/13 included acts such as Major Lazer, Iron & Wine, Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Django Unchained Soundtrack, The Thermals, Flaming Lips, Steve Earle & The Dukes, Simple Minds, Punch Brothers, Paramore, Willie Nelson, Ghost B.C., and several more.

Releases on 4/23/13 included acts such as Bob Marley, Frank Turner, Junip, Phoenix, Rob Zombie, Smoke Fairies, Snoop Lion, and several more.

In addition, labels also need to try to avoid any online pre-orders of upcoming releases (May/June/July) around Record Store Day, as it could hinder your ability to get the most consumers, as a lot of people are forced to save money due to the obnoxious number of releases continuing to increase each year.


SUGGESTION #2 (Pressing Information is a Joke):

Honest and full transparency when it comes to pressing information.  There have been far too many releases for Record Store Day with a pressing number posted in a press release, artist website, or recordstoreday.com that is just absurdly inaccurate.  When a boxset is supposedly individually numbered to 1000 copies and you receive a box that is #1259, you lost credibility and have now created confusion for the consumer. 

In addition, I am sick of the labels/distributors “magically finding” Record Store Day stock weeks after the fact.  Several stores that I follow on Facebook, gloriously posted about how they were able to “find” additional stock of RSD items….most of which sold out at the store on Record Store Day.   Why can the labels/distributors just not have their shit together and ensure everything is sent out (minus holding back maybe 10-25 copies for damage/lost packages) so consumers can actually buy the items when intended?

This would be akin to going to your local AMC Theater to watch Iron Man 3 and then when you get to the theater they tell you that “we didn’t get in the movie reel to show the movie, but we may be able to get it next week”.   Well that’s great, but I am here NOW to watch the movie NOW, not next week.  Same thing here.  I am shopping at your store on Record Store Day NOW to buy the items NOW, not when some UPS box decides to shop up 2 weeks later with a 7” box set that you didn’t get in originally.  That defeats the point and purpose of Record Store Day and it also shows that items are horded and not fully distributed fairly prior to Record Store Day.  Because if they were, then these labels/distributors, sure as hell wouldn’t have as much stock to be shipped out to several stores ALL OVER THE US.


SUGGESTION #3 (Direct 2 Consumer—Let us Know):

Honest and full transparency when it comes to labels holding back stock to sell RSD items online.  I have no problem with this tactic and in fact have taken part and saved a lot of money doing this.  I would just like labels to pre-announce that they will be selling their RSD release sometime after Record Store Day.  When I see Roadrunner records selling over 200 copies each of the Dio/Killswitch Engage and Deep Purple/Type O Negative singles on April 23rd then I wonder if the pressing number posted is accurate and took into account that there were 200 less copies available on Record Store Day in stores, so they could be sold online. 

Again, with over 400 releases, Record Store Day is turning into a clusterfuck.  The ability to afford and find the items you want are getting more difficult.  If I knew that Becausesoundmatters.com was going to have both Avenged Sevenfold RSD releases, or that KRS was going to put the Elliott Smith 7” online, then I can plan accordingly and not feel bummed out or stressed out by not finding it on Record Store Day, since I knew I had a 2nd chance to find it.  But by holding back and being secretive regarding these online Direct to Consumer strategies, it makes it appear that stock is being horded and the plan to sell these is very calculated and decided well in advance.  Just keep us in the loop, would that be such a bad thing? 


SUGGESTION #4 (Cash Grab/Price Point issues):

Record Store Day is becoming a cash grab.  I have rarely had an issue with price points until Record Store Day 2013.  One example that I will point out is the Coheed & Cambria Afterman Descension Demos LP.    Now back on Black Friday (November 2012), we had a similar release by Coheed & Cambria.  Limited to 1000 copies, the Afterman Ascension LP was pressed on clear vinyl.  I paid $15.99 for that demo LP at my local record store.  In April, just a mere 6 months after Black Friday, I paid $20.99 for the Afterman Descension clear vinyl LP, that was on clear vinyl and limited to 2500 copies.  So 1500 more copies were pressed (aren’t we told that the more an item is produced, the cheaper per unit cost it is supposed to be?).   Using the price sheet from Gotta Groove Records (140g colored vinyl), the price per LP would have been $2.41 whereas for Black Friday it would have been $2.80.  So why the $3-5 increase (as other stores had the Coheed LP anywhere from $17.99-$20.99)

http://files.gottagrooverecords.com.s3.amazonaws.com/files/2013/05/GGR-PRICE-CARD-UPDATED-CURRENT.pdf

The price discrepancies between stores was dependent upon them being able to go direct with labels versus a distributor.  Somehow, we have to get some sort of pricing structure setup for Record Store Day releases.  So pretty much it doesn’t matter if you go to a store in California, Texas or New York, you are paying the same basic price.  It is the same principle about seeing a CD at Amazon, Best Buy or Target…..if all 3 of those stores listed insane crazy price variants, then you’d start to wonder what was going on.  Sadly, this is happening on Record Store Day and some stores are forced to buy from a distributor and some stores, just out of greed, try to milk and extra dollar or two, because they know that traffic/demand will be high and they can get away with it.

But if labels/distributors worked together to where everyone was profitable and could get product to stores at a capped/fixed price point, then everyone would benefit.  How that would be accomplished is beyond me, but it is just frustrating to see you go into one store and buy a 7” single for Record Store Day for $7.99 and see the same single in another store blocks away for $10.99.  People should not feel like they got ripped off on Record Store Day, that is not the point of the day, but some of these pricing methods leave a bad taste in your mouth and needs to be addressed.

SUGGESTION #5 (Major Labels taking over RSD/# of Releases too many):

Record Store Day is being homogenized by the major labels.  Part of the idea of Record Store Day is to give the smaller, independent labels a chance to release items to create awareness for up and coming artists or the label itself. It is becoming increasingly more difficult for smaller labels to do this and participate, when major labels account for nearly 70% of the total RSD releases.  Larger independent labels have also started to shrink their releases (e.g. Sub Pop, Merge) because the spirit of Record Store Day is starting to become too capitalistic.  Part of the problem is the incessant need to keep increasing the number of releases each year.  I still don’t understand how having over 300 releases hitting on a single day makes sense.  Our economy is still struggling, people are sacrificing more and more to make ends meet, yet we are going to trumpet the fact that 400 items are being released on a given day?  When people have to start cutting back on food/gas to afford buying items for Record Store Day (people have posted as much in forums), then we have a problem.    If a label is just going to do a mirrored/windowed release and the only difference in the release is a gold foil stamp with a number on it, how about you just DON’T DO IT?  Just release it when you planned to and not go for the RSD cash grab.  You aren’t really providing any value add to the consumer, other than being able to buy it early.  Who cares.  That would have saved us at least 50 releases in April right there!    But instead of just dumping release after release, re-issue after re-issue—how about taking the time to create a core batch of QUALITY releases (not saying there aren’t any quality releases, but if *all* of them were, then it’d make it more worthwhile).  I am sure if you were to poll the average music fan for Record Store Day, they’d prefer around 125 quality, audiophile rare releases versus 400 releases that is a hodgepodge of quality and variety. 

If we don’t do anything to curb the number of releases, then stores won’t be able to afford to participate in RSD.  Stores can’t be expected to continuously go over $20K in debt every April, just for a historic sales day that may or may not even get them out of debt.


Again, I love Record Store Day.  I love what is promotes.  I love the stores that have benefitted from it.  I love some of the releases I’ve been able to buy on Record Store Day.  I just think that there are some tweaks that we could make that would benefit all parties involved and continue the tradition.
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Monday, April 15, 2013

Record Store Day 2013 Interview with Billy Fields from Warner Music Group

As you may recall, nearly 2 years ago, I was able to conduct an interview with Eric Levin, from Criminal Records and one of the co-founders of Record Store Day.  As Record Store Day has kept growing and evolving, I wanted to get the perspective from one of the major labels about Record Store Day.  What label to choose, other than the label that was there on the very first Record Store Day....Warner Bros. Records.  I reached out to Billy Fields from Warner Music Group and asked him the following questions:
1)     Please introduce yourself and explain what your role is with Record Store Day (RSD) at Warner:

Sure. I work for the domestic distribution arm of the Warner Music Group and handle sales to our account base for all WEA and ADA releases. I am the owner and responsible party at distribution to help in every way I can to strategize, plan, forecast, produce, sell, allocate and ship all RSD releases. That’s the short answer. (Edit:  you can follow Billy on Twitter at @billysezvinyl)

2)     How long have you been involved in that role and what RSD releases have you been personally responsible for curating/developing?

I've been in this role (in varying degrees) since May of 2008. Honestly, I can’t claim any complete responsibility for bringing any specific title to RSD. I work with many people at all our labels and act as a format expert and a trusted account advocate. It doesn't matter what we come up with if the artist isn't feeling our ideas. It’s the music makers that bring RSD to realization.

3)     Explain how Warner starts the process to get an item selected to get approved?  Do all of the subsidiary groups within Warner get together to discuss possibilities?  Are the possibilities driven by the artist or does the label recommend items to artists or both?

We all have our favorite ideas scribbled down in notepads and we bring them out a few times a year to see if it’s time to release the package. We start with planning meetings with the sales and marketing teams at each label. We review release schedules and gather ideas to take back to artists and their teams. If an idea gets out of the first planning meeting it then needs to be vetted by key marketing folks and then the artist and their management team. We try to only present the best ideas to the artists. And many times the ideas are conceived and executed by the artist and we work to make their vision become reality. The Flaming Lips Heady Fwends from last year is a great example of an artist driven release that we helped bring to market. Frankly, the band did most of the heavy lifting and we got it to stores in the nick of time.

4)     Have you been part of releases that have been discussed, but due to legal issues or other factors you've had to delay from previous years?  Are there items that Warner wanted to have out April 20th that we’ll potentially see on Black Friday in November?

Absolutely. Every year we end up moving releases from one RSD Event to the next, and for the reasons you note as well as others. Sometimes these just isn't enough time between the idea’s inception and the idea’s execution to make the date. However, there weren't any titles this year that are sliding to Black Friday, but it does happen.


5)     Do you help coordinate releases in the UK/EU?   How do music rights in other regions of the world add challenges to what you try to release in certain territories?

I don’t directly coordinate releases outside the U.S. but historically the bulk of releases originate from the U.S. companies. Territory rights don’t usually become a big problem unless a core artist has an entirely different company representing them outside the U.S. In those cases we turn to the artist and their management to push for a worldwide release as it’s in the best interest of the artist to have all territories on board. But does it add some obstacles, yes.

6)     It appears that there is a fine line between a release being too limited or over produced for Record Store Day….how is the pressing quantity determined?  What do you or Warner feel is a balanced pressing?

You couldn't be more correct on this one and it’s getting harder and harder to determine the “right” number. The sweet spot is still between 3,000 and 5,000 but that’s an incredibly wide margin when you’re trying to hit it just right. I think, at this point, anything less than 2.5K produced will cause excess grief as too many fans will come up empty-and the front line fan tends to blame the record store. At the same time, we don’t want limited edition exclusive releases that are produced in such a great number that no one feels they’re really limited. Truly, this is a “damned if you do, damned if you don’t” proposition.

7)     Warner was pretty much the only label that supported the 1st Record Store Day with around 10 releases.  This year, there are projected to have over 400 releases.  What is your opinion regarding the sheer number of releases coming out each year?

Whether there are too many releases each year is for the stores to comment on. We work very hard to whittle down our offerings so we only come with the best releases each year. And for all our best efforts we've still occasionally come up short. The stores should continue to vote with their open to buy dollars because if they don’t buy, the labels won’t produce. When you put forth time, money and effort and an RSD title doesn't connect you learn very quickly to refine your plans and adjust your strategy.


8)     Warner has grown as a label and we've had the recent Universal/EMI merger too.  What is your opinion on consolidation in the market?  Is it healthy for the vinyl industry?  Will it allow stores to get competitive pricing?  Do you feel it will be the “big” labels competing against the smaller labels like Sub Pop, Matador, Numero, Polyvinyl, Saddle Creek, Joyful Noise, etc.

I’m not able to comment on this one.

9)      Several people have noticed the costs of LPs are rising.  I can imagine that having an LP pressed at Pallas in Germany will obviously cost more than having it pressed in the US at United Record Pressing.  But what goes into determining the actual cost of an LP?

Cost of production, royalties, distribution fee, label margin, retail margin. These are the major contributors to final SRP. Not every record should be produced to audiophile standards, and not every record should be pressed to satisfy punk rock kids watching their favorite band at a basement show. There are artistic concerns, sound quality concerns, market concerns and we do our best to keep them all balanced in such a way that we can be profitable.

  
10a)  We've seen other labels in the past, once they realize demand for certain RSD pieces is extreme, they repress the item to meet demand, thus cheapening the original release.  One of things l liked that WB did on Black Friday was the limited colored version of Blak and Blue by Gary Clark Jr. that was limited to 2000.  Those that got it on Black Friday got the colored version.  Those who missed out could still get the same LP, just not on colored vinyl. 
10b)  Are there plans to do more releases like that, to keep the original RSD release unique?

Yes. And I’m happy to hear that this was something the fans liked. We believe this constitutes a great way to spread the word on an artist and it makes collectors a bit crazy. We want to drive them crazy because we enjoy playing the game. If you’ll remember, we released a colored repress of The Misfits Walk Among Us last RSD and split the three colors so one was more rare than the others. And we’ve got a number of titles this RSD that are colored AND numbered. After those selections are sold out we’ll keep those core vinyl titles in print on basic black vinyl. First come, first served.

11)  We've seen WB do a few comedy releases (Jimmy Fallon, George Lopez); do you feel that there are any genre’s that have been overlooked for Record Store Day?

I think Hip Hop and Rap have had a hard time of it to date. I've noticed that that’s changing for the better and I look forward to even more added to future RSD events. Peeping the list for RSD 2013 we've got Notorious B.I.G. Ready To Die and another distributor is releasing The Roots Things Fall Apart. Both vital records, and I’m excited to have them on vinyl.

12)  What is your “dream release” that you would love to see make it out for Record Store Day in the future (or have you already achieved it)?

I’d like to see an audiophile re-issue of Buckingham Nicks, especially with the connection made by Dave Grohl’s new (and excellent) documentary, “Sound City.”

13)  As a fan of vinyl, what RSD release from a competitor, did you really admire and wish you had released?

I loved the silk screened Hold Steady release from a couple of years ago. I loved the hand produced and extremely small run on that record. I've also really loved the recent Miles Davis in Mono releases from Legacy. I also think the double single packages from Sundazed are excellent and the work that Light In The Attic is doing it top notch. That Stax set and Wheedle’s Groove Box were phenomenal. Beyond the great releases that come out specifically for RSD there’s the wealth of everything else that you find in a record store. I make my rounds in NYC each RSD and invariably end up out in Greenpoint, Brooklyn at Permanent Records. I leave that shop every year with at least 3 records that I didn't know I needed when I went in the front door. Gotta love something beyond family and records are it for me. Love at first listen.

14)  Finally, what is your personal opinion of Record Store Day.  Are there any suggestions/recommendations that you’d like to see?

For those folks that are around me on a daily basis, this won’t be a new idea so maybe I can communicate it using a fresh angle. The genesis of Record Store Day was the belief that the music industry specifically, and the public in general, believed that record stores were going the way of the dinosaurs. All the news was crap and we were all becoming vast digital consumers. Record Store Day was the flag on the hill, the line in the sand. It was a beachhead. The stores decided not one step further. They pulled together and decided to tell a different story. And I love it for that. I think it’s a fantastic event and I can’t point to any other music retail initiative that is as dynamic, successful or exciting. I’d like to see RSD become a brand on par with any music brand. I’d like to see RSD sponsor shows, endorse artists, support art galleries, partner with other Independent businesses: book stores, coffee shops, food trucks, tattoo shops: you name it, they should continue to spread the “cool.”

OTHER GENERAL COMMENTS:

Up until this year we routinely released catalog re-issues on RSD that were not exclusive, limited or windowed. We wanted our titles to have the best shot at being discovered and RSD is the perfect vehicle for that. All these great stores throwing parties, with records situated right in the middle of the entire affair. Over the last two years RSD has been telling us that using this strategy has been problematic for the stores. Customers mistake our commercial releases as exclusives only to find out that they can purchase the titles after the event or at other non-RSD retailers. We listened, changed our release strategy and now you’ll only find the hard to find on RSD. My point is that we’re working with the stores and RSD to continue to make the event the best it can be. We want RSD (the day and the volunteer organization) to thrive, grow and innovate. The only way that can be achieved is if we listen to one another, adjust to each other and refine our strategies to best exemplify the heart and spirit that IS Record Store Day.

____________________________________________________________


Thanks to Billy Fields and Warner Bros. Records for allowing me to conduct this interview and publish it.  If anyone has any follow-up questions, feel free and add them to the comments below and if there is enough demand, we'll do a Part 2.

WP



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Wednesday, April 10, 2013

Rarest and Most Sought After Record Store Day 2013 Items

With over 400 items being released for Record Store Day, some items will be in more demand than others.  Here is my opinion, based on distributors sending e-mails to Record Stores, number of people discussing releases and history; to determine which items will be more challenging to find, unless you are in line early at your local record store.

 Here are the top 10 most rare/desired RSD items:

 #10)  The Orange Juice Reissues on Domino Records

 If you missed out on the 2010 Box Set, Coals to Newcastle, then these LPs are finally being reissued  separately from their original Polydor releases from the early 80's.  Any Edwyn Collins fan should be aware of this Scottish Post-Punk band..  Record Store Day sees the release of the following LPs:  You Can't Hide Your Love Forever, Rip It Up, Texas Fever and The Orange Juice.  No more than 750 copies will be available of any LP.
#9)  Kill Rock Stars Cassette Compilation Box.  400 copies.

 What?  A cassette release on Record Store Day?  Yes, when it is the Kill Rock Stars label and is a 3 cassette history of their awesome Kill Rock Stars compilations from the 90's.  And if you are a fan of a lot of  the early "grunge" movement by artists such as Nirvana, Melvins, Unwound, Bikini Kill, Versus, Slant 6, God Head Silo, Smog, Boredoms and many more!  This will be a nice collectors piece.

 #8)  New Found Glory---Mania 7  1000 copies.

 So New Found Glory had a one-off RSD release doing all Ramones covers?  Yes please!    7 tracks on colored vinyl.

 #7)  Frightened Rabbit  Midnight Organ Fight/Quietly Now Special RSD Edition 500 copies.

 Not only is this being re-released on 180g vinyl.  Each LP comes with a special 12x12" art print.  There are 4 different prints (each limited to 125 copies), making trying to acquire the complete set, rather impossible.

 #6)  Pornography  7 Minutes in Heaven.  1500 copies.   Ryan Adams doing 7 punk songs?  Sure, why not? His previous RSD 7" have each sold well and have been limited (Class Mythology 2x7" being the best).  
#5) Portugal The Man Church Mouth 500 copies only.    This LP is one of 3 releases exclusively available at the Coachella Zia Records pop-up store.  Doubt this will last to weekend 2, so you better buy this quick.  But this is the re-release of Portugal The Man's 2nd LP on Bone Colored Vinyl, each copy numbered.  
# 4) Rocket From the Crypt Re-Issue LPs 500 copies each

 Fans of RFTC were excited to see that both Group Sounds and Live from Camp X-Ray were being re-issued on 180g vinyl in Gatefold sleeves.  Then they got depressed, when only 500 copies were going to be made available for Record Store Day.
#3) Astralwerks 20/20 Flexi Box.  1000 copies.

 Surprising, this box is only available in the US.  Thus making overseas fans jealous and putting this near the top of their wish lists. Let's just look at the tracklisting:
1: Future Sound of London – The Far Out Son Of Lung And The Ramblings Of A Madman (Original 12″ Version)
2: The Chemical Brothers – Block Rockin’ Beats
3: The Beta Band – Dry The Rain
4: Fatboy Slim – Praise You
5: Cassius – Cassius 1999
6: Doves – The Cedar Room [Promo-only version previously unreleased in the
US]*
7: Kings of Convenience – Winning A Battle, Losing The War (J-Walk Remix) [Previously unreleased in the US]*
8: Basement Jaxx – Where’s Your Head At
9: Royksopp – Poor Leno
10: Sia – Breathe Me (Four Tet Remix)
11: Hot Chip – My Shit’s On Fire Right Now [First ever commercial release]*
12: The Kooks – Put Your Back to My Face [Previously unreleased in the US]*
13: Empire Of The Sun – Walking On A Dream
14: David Guetta – Sexy Bitch (feat. Akon)
15: Air – Indian Summer [Previously unreleased in the US]*
16: Kraftwerk – Die Roboter [German language version of "The Robots."
Previously unreleased in the US]*
17: Eric Prydz – Allein
18: Swedish House Mafia – Don’t You Worry Child (feat. John Martin)
19: Diamond Rings – Put Me On (Diamond Dance) [Previously unreleased]
20: Gold Fields – Dark Again
#2) Paul Weller Sonic Kicks 7" Box  600 copies

 Yep Roc Records has announced that the legendary Jam frontman will drop Sonik Kicks 7″ Singles Box Set, a limited edition wrap up featuring five singles on colored vinyl, plus two unreleased songs and an autographed Sonik Kicks poster. 
#1) Dave Matthews Band Live Trax Volume 1    500 copies

 Only Dave's 2nd RSD release, and this one is the first as the full DMB.  In addition, it is the first time they've put the Live Trax on vinyl (colored on blue vinyl, no less).  The demand for this will be huge and don't be surprised if they announce a black vinyl version for the Warehouse soon after RSD.
What do you think?  Which items do you feel will be the rarest/most sought after?





 


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Friday, March 29, 2013

The MISSING Record Store Day 2013 Items--Honor these artists/labels!

So I've been meaning to write this for a week now, but work and exhaustion have held it up, so I apologize.   But for those of you in the UK/Europe, you have an *awesome* list of items heading your way that many in North America would love to have.  Speaking of, if anyone in the UK/EU would WANT TO TRADE for any items, please let me know.  I will pretty much have my pick of every US release available (except for the Dave Matthews Box Set) , so I can nearly guarantee any item you want.  

So with that said, let's look at the items that did *not* make the Record Store Day "official" list.  Remember, to be considered an official RSD release, you basically have to have the sticker/logo on the item and it has to meet their approval.  Know that there are some *great* items coming out on Record Store Day, that your store may get (if you want it, be sure and ask if they ordered it!) that still should be recognized.  If you know of an item that I missed, please LET ME KNOW by leaving a comment and I'll be sure and get it added!!

 COMPACT DISCS:

  • Scanner Terminal Earth
    • Label:  Divebomb Records
    • Description:  Terminal Earth has been out of print for nearly 20 years, and not surprisingly, fetching high dollar collector prices online. Divebomb Records’ Terminal Earth Record Store Day limited edition contains brand new mastering exclusive to this physical reissue as well as a new interview with band founder,Axel Julius. Forthe fans, by the fans.
    • Link:  http://www.ildistro.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/ILD_April_2013.pdf
  • Scanner Hypertrace
    • Label:  Divebomb Records
    • Description:  Despite the fact that it flew under the commercial radar, Hypertrace is still beloved by cult metal aficionados today and ripe to be discovered by legions of younger power metal fans curious of the movement’s origins. Divebomb Records’ Hypertrace Record Store Day limited-edition contains brand new mastering exclusive to this physical reissue as well as a new interview with band founder,Axel Julius. Forthe fans, by the fans.
    • Link:  http://www.ildistro.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/ILD_April_2013.pdf
  • White Mystery Telepathic

7" VINYL SINGLES:

  • Boy Sets Fire   Bled Dry
  • Ides of Gemini Hexagram
    • Label:  Magic Bullet
    • Description:  Exclusive to Record Store Day, two brand new songs from Ides of Gemini, who have recently been praised on pitchfork and have opened for the likes of Neurosis, and a brand new tour in April 2013 with Ghost. The band features J. Bennett (guitarist, but also well-known as a journalist for Decibel Magazine and Terrorizer), Sera Timms (Bass and Vocals, Black Math Horseman, Black Mare), and Kelly Johnston-Gibson (Drums). Features MIKE GALLAGHER from ISIS guesting on Guitar! Limited to 450 copies on clear vinyl.
    • Link:  http://www.cobraside.com/b2b/details.php?id=861010
  • ILSA/Seven Sisters of Sleep Split Single 
    • Label:  A389 Recordings
    • Description:  Teaming up for this special Record Store Day Release, Socal's Seven Sisters of Sleep deliver a brutal cover of "Messiah" by the legendary HELLHAMMER while the flipside features Washington DC's Ilsa deliver a cover of Bolt Thrower's "The IVTH Crusade". all packaged in stellar artwork by Szymo Siech. Includes a full color 24x36 horror movie style poster of the artwork. 666 copies on blood red vinyl!
    • Link:  http://www.cobraside.com/b2b/details.php?id=861025
  • Like Rats Like Rats 7"
    • Label:  A389 Recordings
    • Description:  Five tracks of raw primitive metallic hardcore heavily influenced by Hellhammer/Celtic Frost. Features members of Chicago's WEEKEND NACHOS. Special Record Store Day reissue of the bands ultra rare debut single released on Cosmic Debris Records in 2010. Color vinyl.
    • Link:  http://www.cobraside.com/b2b/details.php?id=861022
  • Night Marchers / Mrs. Magician Split
    • Label:  Swami Records
    • Description:  On the Night Marchersʼ side is “La Gloria,” an ode to the glory days of Floridaʼs hand-rolled cigar industry. This song nearly made it on to the bandʼs sophomore album, Allez Allez, but at the last moment was deemed too special not to stand alone.  Mrs Magician contributes a brand new tune with serious artistic weight. Pulling various family favors and achieving unbelievable results, the band coerced Neal Young to produce the track. Not only that, but Al Jarbine adds his background vocals and patented Stratocaster guitar licks to the song as well. The result is “Despicable Things,” another masterpiece in the canon of one of today's most prolific bands.
    • Link:  http://www.cobraside.com/b2b/details.php?id=871926
  • Posion Idea Filthkick EP
  • Rifle Diet Abuse Begets Abuse
    • Label:  Profane Existence
    • Description:  This is RIFLE’S DIET’s second release and the fourth installment in the Profane Existence Limited Edition Singles Series of 2013. This is a short run pressing that is available on Bruise Violet, Golden Brew, Opaque Yellow and Blackened Black vinyl. As the title suggests supplies are limited-- once they are gone,they are gone
    • Link:  http://www.ildistro.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/ILD_April_2013.pdf
  • Ringworm 1991 Demos
    • Label:  A389 Recordings
    • Description:  Alongside INTEGRITY"S first releases, RINGWORM's 1991 Demo helped pave the way for metallic hardcore as we know it. This is the band's highly sought after 1991 demo cassette in it's original form, released on 7" for Record Store Day. 350 Color vinyl and 350 black vinyl. 
    • Link:  http://www.cobraside.com/b2b/details.php?id=861023
  • Slipknot S/T EP
    • Label:  Revelation Records
    • Description:  Not to be confused with the popular mainstream Nu Metal band SLIPKNOT from Des Moines, IA, this particular SLIPKNOT was from Revelation Records’ original home base in New Haven, CT. Originally released in 1989, you can hear an early Corrosion Of Conformity influence in this band’s only recorded output. Originally only pressed once, Revelation #13 is now available again on colored vinyl for Record Store Day 2013.
    • Link: http://www.cobraside.com/b2b/details.php?id=835736
  • Sophia Knapp/AOP Split 7"
  • Street Dogs  Crooked Druken Sons
    • Label:  Pirates Press
    • Description:  Last November, during a brief homestretch in the middle of a whirlwind world tour, the band (with old friend Rick Barton, ex-DROPKICK MURPHYS) recorded these tracks themselves at Johnny Rioux’s compound in Texas. Originally they were going to be demos to work on for the new album... but they are too good for that, so here they are!
    • Link: http://www.cobraside.com/b2b/details.php?id=870785
  • Svarte Greiner / Lakes of Grass and Gold (Erik Enocksson) split 7"
  • T.S.O.L. You Don't Have to Die
    • Label:  TKO Records
    • Description:  This Record Store Day 2013, TKO Records and Cobraside have unearthed a forgotten punk rock rarity for you! We are very proud to offer up a slice of classic LA punk circa 1980! Side A features a previously unreleased song from a 1980 demo recordings. Side B features two T.S.O.L. classic live the Cuckoo's Nest from the Summer of 1981! To complete this stellar one of a kind record, the cover features a previously unpublished photo of the band, taken by none other than GLEN E. FRIEDMAN. Limited to a one-time pressing of 1,000 copies!
    • Link:  http://www.cobraside.com/b2b/details.php?id=862920
  • The Repos  Rejoice in Ruin
    • Label:  Organized Crime Records
    • Description: THE REPOS were birthed in 2003 in the bathroom of a halfway house in Calumet City, IL. Between group meetings, cig breaks and day trips to the Salvation Army handball courts Aaron, Craig, Joe and Adam got together to play ugly, vicious hardcore punk. They immediately gained a worthy reputation for their short, memorable shows and "fuck-all" disposition; playing shows that rarely topped 10 minutes, JERRY'S KIDS' cover included. In 2004 they dropped a split with fellow Chicago hardcores 14 OR FIGHT as well as their first full-length self-titled LP. 2006 brought their second full-length Heads And Hearts Explode and by 2008, with vocalist Aaron headed back to IDoC in Joliet for a botched check-forging scam, the band called it quits with a handful of shows and the release of the ultra-limited Ending On A Positive Note LP. In 2011 Joe, Aaron, Craig and Adam returned as THE ROPES. A glut of releases followed including a demo, a new 7", three different cassette-only releases and a 2012 Record Store Day pressing of their second demo. 2013 brings a couple more changes: Andy (Vile Gash) has stepped in on bass and thanks to some legal hassle about their name THE ROPES are THE REPOS again.  This April, RSD will see the release of a new REPOS 7" on Chicago's Organized Crime Records.
    • Link:  http://coretexrecords.com/ReposThe-rejoice-in-ruin-haunted-peace-RSD-SPECIAL
    • Link 2:  http://www.bullmoose.com/p/14676811/repos-rejoice-in-ruin-haunted-peace-rsd-2013-400-copies-pressed
  • The Wedding Present Two Chansons
    • Label:  This Will Be Our Summer
    • Description:  THE WEDDING PRESENT take two songs from their recent album Valentina and perform them in French.  Features the tracks “Metal Men” and “End Credits.” Comes in a 3-color silkscreen sleeve. Edition of 400 copies
    • Link:  celebratedsummerecords.blogspot.com

10" Singles:

  • Ghoul  Intermediate Level Hard-Core
    • Label:  Clearview Records
    • Description:  We are happy to announce that Ghoul is doing a super-limited Record Store Day release with the legendary Clearview Records! “Intermediate Level Hard-Core- A Clearview Records Music Primer Featuring Ghoul” will be released on 190 gram solid red 10 inch vinyl and features covers of songs by such luminaries as Fearless Iranians From Hell, Dayglo Abortions, N.O.T.A, Willful Neglect, and the classic “Americanized” by GWAR featuring GWAR‘s own intergalactic wasteoid Oderus Urungus on vocals! Look for it on Record Store Day at your favorite record store! Sorry, what was that? Of course record stores still exist, you dum dum! Ask your local record store to carry it and look for it on April 20th!
    • Link:  http://www.creepsylvania.com/record-store-day/
  • Punch Brothers Ahoy EP
    • Label:  Nonesuch
    • Description:  Nonesuch Records released Punch Brothers' five-song EP Ahoy! digitally and on CD last November. Now on vinyl for the first time, the EP has been pressed on 10" vinyl for Record Store Day and includes songs by Josh Ritter ("Another New World"), Gillian Welch and David Rawlings ("Down Along the Dixie Line"), Punch Brothers ("Squirrel of Possibility"), and Mclusky ("Icarus Smicarus"), along with one traditional tune, arranged by Punch Brothers ("Moonshiner"). Originally recorded during the Nashville sessions for their critically acclaimed 2012 album Who's Feeling Young Now?, these tracks also were produced by Jacquire King (Kings of Leon, Tom Waits, Modest Mouse). The vinyl EP was cut by Chris Bellman at Bernie Grundman Studios and pressed at Pallas MFG.
    • Link:  http://www.nonesuch.com/journal/record-store-day-releases-come-from-the-black-keys-bombino-iron-and-wine-punch-brothers-2013-03-01
    • Note:  This has been likely cancelled/delayed, but the lack of announcement from Nonesuch has been rather surprising.

12" Singles:

  • Across Tundras / Lark's Tongue Split 12"
    • Label:  Cavity Records
    • Description:  This split marks the coming together of two bands with different styles but similar influences, and will give the listener visions of Panoramic Country Crush, Cosmic Blues, Vintage Psychedelia, Terrestrial Drone, and Rural Heaviness. The finest dream is a siren song to suffer, illuminating the pathways where fear and bliss become one. What starts with pleasure endures in alarm, and only your eyes can look straight at the sun
    • Link:  http://www.ildistro.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/ILD_April_2013.pdf
  • Asphodells Remix 12"  (Andrew Weatherall/Timothy Fairplay)
  • Chica Libre Cuatro Tigres EP
    • Label:  Barbes Records
    • Description:  After getting its inspiration from exotic strains of cumbia from the nether hemisphere and writing an album’s worth of mostly original material (on last year’s’ Canibalismo) Chicha Libre turns its attention to some classic songs from the Anglophone world.  The band applies its psychedelic chicha template to The Clash’s “Guns of Brixton,” Arthur Lee & Love’s “Alone Again Or,” The Simpsons’ theme song as well as a classic Chicha from Peruvian band Los Shapis.
    • Link:  http://pressjunkiepr.files.wordpress.com/2013/03/cuatrocovers-prfinal-3-1-13.pdf
  • Thee Oh Sees  Moon Sick EP
    • Label:  Castle Face Records
    • Description:   Culled from the same sessions as the Floating Coffin LP and featuring guest spots from LARS FINBERG of THE INTELLIGENCE, K DYLAN EDRICH of THE MALLARD and KELLEY STOLTZ, as well as the full and finely honed weight of the touring band, Moon Sick is a similarly synth-drenched, psychotic-then-sweet companion piece to Floating Coffin. As if that wasn't enough to pique your fancy, all proceeds from the first pressing, available for Record Store Day, will go to benefit Healthy San Francisco, a local non-profit that helps San Franciscans afford health insurance that otherwise wouldn't be able to. So as you toke up to the melted swing of "Grown In A Graveyard," yelp along to "Sewer Fire," pogo in place to live staple "Humans Be Swayed" and finally and bend your sweet tooth on the harpsichorded ballad "Candy Clock," you're doing so for a good cause.
    • Link:  http://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/thee-oh-sees-switch-up-on-new-darker-lp-20130321
    • Link 2:  www.twistandshout.com/Category.cfm?CategoryID=325
  • Tunabunny  Form a Line 12"
    • Label:  HHBTM
    • Description:  TUNABUNNY from Athens, Georgia take their most dance oriented track "Form A Line" from their recent and third album Genius Fatigue and give it the remix treatment and have a dream come true with having VANESSA HAY of the legendary post-punk band PYLON, one of Athens' most iconic voices doing her own version of the song with the band backing her. Edition of 200 copies
    • Link:  https://www.facebook.com/HHBTM/posts/574508969234153

LP Records:

  • Arawak Accadde A  LP
    • Label: Strut
    • Description:  Strut go straight for a collectors favorite for Record Store Day 2013 with the first official reissue of Arawaks in-demand 'Accadde A...' (literally It Happened To...), originally released on the tiny Squirrel label in 1970. The album was put together by the late Luciano Simoncini, a prolific Southern Italian pianist and arranger responsible for a number of anonymously presented library music and film scores, and was the first of four long players under the Arawak name. Presented as a multi-cultural, utopian concept, each track theoretically visits a different country / city and the musical styles vary from funk grooves and loping beats to folkier guitar tracks. With its infectious beats and cinematic feel, the album has become a holy grail for breaks collectors. Madlib most famously borrowed album track 'Accadde A Bali' for Quasimotos 'Real Eyes' and sealed copies of the original pressing change hands for four figure sums. For Record Store Day 2013, Strut are reissuing the full album, mastered from the original reels for the first time since its original issue. Artwork comes fully restored from the original lithographs.
    • Link: www.deejay.de/m_Hip-Hop/details__119961
    • Note:  This might have been delayed/postponed
  • Comeback Kid  Turn it Around LP
    • Label:  Facedown Records
    • Description:  Fast and energetic hardcore fury that has taken the scene by storm! This band has quickly become a favorite in the hardcore scene and has toured heavily in support of this release. A must for fans of TERROR, BANE, CARRY ON and STRETCH ARM STRONG!
      Blue Vinyl LP, limited to 600 copies
    • Link:  http://www.cobraside.com/b2b/details.php?id=870783
  • Corn on Macabre Discographic Violence LP
    • Label:  Magic Bullet Records
    • Description:  Complete discography finally all on one vinyl record. Frenetic grinding violence from members of pg.99, Enemy soil, and Darkest Hour. Limited to 400 copies on different colors.
    • Link:  http://www.cobraside.com/b2b/details.php?id=861012
  • Elliott  Songs in a Transit World
    • Label:  Simba
    • Description:  ELLIOTT was a band from Lousiville, Kentucky, that released four albums and several 7”s in their eight-year existence.  This LP is a collection of their debut 7”, In Transit, released in 1997 on Initial Records, along with their pair of 7”s recorded in between their first two albums (U.S. Songs and False Cathedrals). These two records, If They Do 7” (Initial Records) and Will You (Revelation Records) have long since been out of print. Rounding out this collection of eight songs are two instrumental tracks that were recorded during this period. One was previously on the CDEP version of the If They Do release while the other, “Orphalese”, has never been released on any format.  700 copies on clear vinyl.
    • Link:  http://www.cobraside.com/b2b/details.php?id=869646
  • EmptyMansions Snakes/Vultures/Sulfate
    • Label:  Riot House
    • Description:  EMPTYMANSIONS‘ founder/primary songwriter, SAM FOGARINO (INTERPOL) wrote most of the songs for snakes while on tour promoting INTERPOL’s fourth and self-titled album, from mid 2009 to late 2011. It was after a show in Rome, Italy, that SAM and BRANDON forged a bond resulting in BRANDON taking on the role as producer and bassist for the future EMPTYMANSIONS debut record. Curtis was a part of INTERPOL’s live configuration, playing keyboards on the globe-spanning run.  The eight songs that make up snakes/vultures/sulfate, EMPTYMANSIONS full-length debut, fell into the ‘familiar’ mode: guitar/bass/drums—unwittingly creating a true rock-sounding record. Employing the stylistically versatile DUANE DENISON (THE JESUS LIZARD, TOMAHAWK, TH’ LEGENDARY SHACK SHAKERS) whose unique approach to guitar playing defies comparison or labeling, only aids in taking the rock convention of EM a few degrees to the left. At the controls, Producer BRANDON CURTIS (SECRET MACHINES, COSMICIDE, INTERPOL) possesses the production sensibilities that serve as a balance—keeping the tracks inviting, but not without leaving a bit of challenge for the listener. Along with producing, recording, and mixing
    • Link:  http://www.ildistro.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/ILD_April_2013.pdf
  • Ghoul Maniaxe LP
    • Label:  Tankcrimes
    • Description:   Maniaxe is the second album by the infamous band of cannibalistic troglodytes known as GHOUL. It follows a loose story of their adventures in Creepsylvania, a country known for two things: unending poverty and relentless suffering. Other things that Creepsylvania is less known for, but which appear on Maniaxe, are: Spooky castles! Lumbering robots programmed to murder! A hunter on safari for the most dangerous prey of all: MAN! Careless flaunting of anti-skateboarding laws! Heavy metal riffs! Pounding drums! And that’s not all—now on LP format for the first time ever! Includes a 16-page comic book following the story plus limited colored vinyl and a download card. Live for Metal, Die for GHOUL!
    • Link:  http://www.ildistro.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/ILD_April_2013.pdf
  • Giant Henry (Pre-Unwound members in High School)
  • Headless Dogs  1-5 LP
    • Label:  Magic Bullet Records
    • Description:  Awesome debut from members of The Holy Mountain and Combat Wounded Veteran. Artwork by Steak MTN. All songs exclusive to this RSD release, limited to 450 copies. Several random colors available.
    • Link:  http://www.cobraside.com/b2b/details.php?id=862948
  • ILSA  Maggots are Hungry (RSD edition)
  • ISAN Beautronics LP
    • Label:  Morr Music
    • Description:  Reissue of the first ISAN album (originally released on Tugboat/RTD in 1998) as a limited Record Store Day first time ever vinyl release! Including previously unreleased bonus tracks. Re-mastered and cut by Dubplates & Mastering.
    • Link:  http://www.morrmusic.com/artist/ISAN/release/830
  • Integrity Systems Overload (ORR/A2 Mix)
    • Label:  Organized Crime Records
    • Description:  In 2012 current guitarist Rob Orr obtained the original reels for Systems Overload and thought it would be entertaining to try and recreate the original mix on one of the songs. He sent the track to original guitarist and engineer of Systems Overload, Aaron Melnick. After that they collaborated together and remixed the whole record to sound like the original version. Included are lost elements of songs as well as the original version of Unveiled Tomorrows. A completely new layout was created by vocalist Dwid Hellion as a huge 24” x 36” poster cover. Systems Overload (Orr/A2 mix) is now presented as an extremely limited edition of 350 copies for Record Store Day 2013.
    • Link:  http://www.bullmoose.com/p/14676812/integrity-systems-overload-orr-a2-mix-rsd-2013-350-copies-pressed
  • Levy, Barrington REGGAE ANTHOLOGY: SWEET REGGAE MUSIC (1979-84)  LP
    • Label:  VP Records
    • Description:  For the very first time on vinyl, 17 North Parade carefully selects 10 of Barrington's most sought after sound system favorites off his full length 40-track album Reggae Anthology: Sweet Reggae Music (1979-84), which was released digitally and on compact disc this past December.   Filled with certified classics from beginning to end, this LP covers the early years of Barrington Levy's astonishing career in chronological order. This timeless musical selection gives an in-depth look of the living legend's journey throughout this crucial period when he was proclaimed the "undisputed lord of dancehall" and earned the Best Vocalist Award at the 1984 UK Reggae Awards.  
    • Link:   http://reggaemovement.com/Articles/New-Vinyl-RECORD-STORE-DAY-Releases--Clarks-Booty-Barrington-Levy-Anthology-Dub-Reissues-from-King-Tubby-Lee-Scratch-Perry-Winston-Edwards
  • Nerve Agents, The  Days of the White Owl
    • Label:  Revelation
    • Description:  Days Of The White Owl is the first full-length from Bay Area hardcore punks THE NERVE AGENTS. Following their 1998 eponymous eight-song self-titled EP on Revelation Records, the band’s chemistry musically gelled as they added ex-FURY 66 guitarist Zac Hunter to their lineup by the time Days Of The White Owl was released in July of 2000. The album walks the line between hardcore inspirators such as YOUTH OF TODAY and CRO-MAGS to punk rock influences of TSOL and BLACK FLAG, only to be bookended by an eerie intro and outro of piano played and written by bass player Dante Sigona. Featuring backup vocals by Davey Havok of AFI, Days Of The White Owl contains the rage and fury of hardcore, the urgency of punk, and the unique character and substance that is only THE NERVE AGENTS.
    • Link: http://www.bullmoose.com/p/14676813/nerve-agents-days-of-the-white-owl-rsd-2013-700-pressed-on-white-vinyl  
  • Replikas, The  Biz Burada Yok Iken
    • Label: Dionysus Records
    • Description:  The sixth album Biz Burada Yok İken consists of classic Turkish psychedelic and garage covers from the 1965-75 Anatolian Pop period. Biz Burada Yok İken was released on CD in Turkey in 2012. Dionysus Records’ vinyl issue of Biz Burada Yok İken marks REPLIKA’s first release in the United States.
    • Link:  http://www.ildistro.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/ILD_April_2013.pdf
  • Sense Field  S/T LP
    • Label:  Revelation
    • Description:  Formed by members of REASON TO BELIEVE, SENSE FIELD pioneered the way for all emotional hardcore bands to follow. They toured with bands like JIMMY EAT WORLD, FAR, TEXAS IS THE REASON, DASHBOARD CONFESSIONAL, and recently reunited as part of the Revelation Records 25th anniversary shows.  This self-titled LP compiled the bands two original, self-released EPs along with two additional tracks the band recorded shortly thereafter into one neat little package.
    • Link:  http://www.cobraside.com/b2b/details.php?id=206212
  • White Mystery Telepathic LP

Coachella Releases (they are on the offiical list, but I want to make sure they don't get overlooked, since they'll be at the Zia Records pop-up store, are limited to only 500 copies each and will likely sell out fast):

Regional Record Store Releases:

Criminal Records (Atlanta, GA) is releasing two live in-store recordings from Atlanta newcomers von Grey and Christ, Lord. The albums, released locally in limited quantities on vinyl, will also grant access to a special after-hours live performance from both bands on April 20th. 

Atlanta band Mood Rings will also perform on the Criminal Records stage that day. Their 7" single on Mexican Summer will be available as an extremely limited, hand-silkscreened edition of 100 at all three participating RSD stores in the metro-Atlanta area: Decatur CD, Wax n Facts, and Criminal Records. Vintage Vinyl (St. Louis, MO) is releasing a limited, numbered edition blue vinyl and CD from blues legend Bobby Rush, a first of multi-label/multi-decade greatest hits collection, protecting (and paying) the reigning blues king of the South. 

Shake It Records (Cincinnati, OH) is releasing The Greenhornes - Live at Shake It Records 2001, a limited to 500 LP from way before they were the Raconteurs and a CD EP by Wussy Duo, a slimmed-down Wussy line-up. For RSD, they have a 7-track release, limited to 500 in a hand-stamped, hand-numbered sleeve. 

Other Record Store Giveaways 

In addition to the label samplers and other giveaways provided by RSD to the officially participating stores, some stores are producing their own special souvenirs for their customers. Earshot (Winston Salem, NC) is producing its own CD sampler featuring 19 artists from North and South Carolina, including Band of Horses, while Radio-Active Records (Ft. Lauderdale, FL) is composing a day-of mix tape as the mood strikes them to give away to their customers. Two record stores in Indiana, Luna Music (Indianapolis) and Landlocked Music (Bloomington), have teamed up to mix-down a giveaway of unreleased music from local record label Joyful Noise containing rare and upcoming tracks from local and national acts. 

Celebrate Record Store Day....it is only a few weeks away!!





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