Artwork

One thing I have always admired about certain albums is the artwork and presentation of a vinyl record. Having an eye-catching concept is a quick way to draw attention to your album. Through the years I have come to admire many, and I would like to sure some examples.

The album is Mahogany Rush's 1975 album "Strange Universe".  Artwork was created by Ivan Schwartz. The artist captured the title of the album really well this piece.  My father actually gave me this album, and I had never heard the band before, but the artwork is what drew me in on this one. It did not disappoint.

This is the 1972 Jefferson Airplane album "Bark". The album came wrapped in a brown grocery bag.  as you can see it did have their JA logo on the front, and at the top of the album it says Jefferson Airplane/Bark. It is a very clever idea.

Here is a closer look at what the inside of the fold looks when you unfold the paper bag:

This is Santana "Abraxas".  This is one of my favorite albums.  The artwork was created by Mati Klawein. I had this album for about three years before I realized what was on the front of it. It is a provocative album if you can make out what is on the cover.

These are just a few examples of clever adverstisement and presentation. Please share your own favorites.

For the Love of Music

Using vinyl albums for decoration is beginning to be a big trend with certain groups.  Minglewood Lounge in Memphis has one wall with records in a nicely layed out patten. You can use vinyl records to decorate anything.

Wedding reception decoration always highlight the couple's taste and interests.  A very cute and inexpensive way to decorate is using vinyl records as centerpiece decorations for the tables. You can place the record in the center of the table with tea lights.  Designers are designing serving platters made out of recycled vinyl records. It is a cute and inexpensive way to add a personal touch to a music lover's wedding.

Recently, artists have begun painting mandalas on records. It adds a colorful touch to any record. Of course, you would paint a record that is not working or one you do not like.

Vinyl Records are the perfect way to accent any music lover's home or music room.

On the Hunt

Random places and finds

Over the past eight years, I have been able to find and purchase over 300 vinyl records. Vinyl albums can be found almost anywhere; you just have to know where to look.

The first stop on the hunt for vinyl records is local antique stores. Most antique stores have booths with individual owners. The more booths you have, the better the chance of finding one selling albums.  For example, I was able to purchase a copy of The Rocky Horror Picture Show soundtrack at a local antique store. This is one of my most prized soundtrack albums.

Pawn shops are a great starting place. They can also be hit or miss because there is a slim market for vinyl records, but in recent years, the trend of selling new albums on vinyl has increased. It never hurts to stop at a pawn shop and take a peek inside to see what you can find.

Estate sales and yard sales can be tied into one category. You never know what you are going to find at these sales. One day I was able to find Santana's album "Abraxas", which still had a limited edition poster inside the album. If you don't want to waste time, ask the owner or overseer of the sale if they have any vinyl records they are selling.

There are many different places and ways to find your albums, but these few options are my favorite. It is the thrill of the hunt that makes it satisfying. It is too easy to go on the internet and order an album.

Seek it out and you shall find it.