In an age where people download albums without a second thought, and where jewel cases and liner notes have been replaced by PayPal-purchased digital download links, the big box record store is a decreasingly popular destination for those in search of new music.
Still, there is value to the independent record store – which carries local releases, vinyl offerings and used items generally not available at Best Buys of the world. To draw much-needed attention to independent record stores, a day – appropriately called “Record Store Day” – is set aside each April. Some of the approximately 700 participating stores throughout the nation hand out free goodie bags, significantly mark down items, release brand new or rare music, and host live performances.
Each of the eight Exclusive Company locations in Wisconsin is celebrating the sixth annual Record Store Day (Saturday, April 21), including the Milwaukee and Greenfield Exclusive Company locations. Here are some of the performers slated to play in-store sets.
Milwaukee – 1669 N. Farwell Ave.
10 a.m. to 3 p.m.: WMSE DJs
3 p.m.: Will Phalen
4 p.m.: Vic & Gab
5 p.m.: Archie Powell & the Exports
6 p.m.: Brief Candles
Greenfield – 5026 S. 74th St.
Performances from Peter D’Amore (10 a.m. to 11 a.m.) and Sam Llanas (noon to 1 p.m.)
DJ Mark Krueger of Planet Prog and additional sets from WMSE DJs
The official Record Store Day website indicates other Milwaukee (and Milwaukee-adjacent) record retailers Rushmor Records, Bullseye Records and Off The Beaten Path (Milwaukee and Wauwatosa locations) will take part in the holiday, possibly with live music included in the festivities.
Regardless, try to make time to get out and support your local record store. Better yet, pick up a local band’s CD from an independent area retailer. If the sense of support and community isn’t enough to brighten your Record Store Day, the savings, the free extras and the on-site entertainment will make it worthwhile.
