Yes, it’s true: vinyl is cool again.
9.2 million records were sold last year (up 52 percent from 2013), marking the highest total since Nielsen SoundScan started tracking music sales in 1991. One of the driving forces behind vinyl’s resurgence in popularity is the annual Record Store Day, which takes place this Saturday at record stores across the world, including Toronto’s Sonic Boom (215 Spadina Ave.).
In addition to exclusive vinyl releases (A$AP Rocky, David Bowie, Miles Davis, The Doors, The Flaming Lips, Jimi Hendrix, Kid Cudi, and Of Montreal are just some of artists among this year’s special releases), Sonic Boom will be offering giveaways, high-fives, live musical performances, and much more. Performances include Carl Didur, Anamai, Harrison, Mimico, and Comet Control. Doors open at 10 a.m., performances start at 2 p.m.
But that’s not all. From 9 p.m. onwards, the festivities will move up the street at 8-11 Gallery (233 Spadina Ave., enter through the back alley off Sullivan). Mmm Mmm (Sexy Merlin/Man Made Hill), Soupcans, and a secret special guest will perform. Entry is $8 at the door.