Record Store Day is fast approaching. From the sublime, one-time-only limited edition classics to the somewhat more questionable releases, April 16th is your chance to head down to a local record store, give them all your money, and walk away with some truly great music. To ease the pain of choosing from the endless list of releases, we’ve compiled a guide of the top ten must-buy records coming out on Saturday.
Daft Punk – Tron Legacy Soundtrack
Alright, love it or hate it, it’s still Daft Punk. What’s more is that this not only comes with an exclusive track, it’s also potentially the coolest vinyl you’ll ever see – translucent, blue, and very, very awesome.
Deerhoof – Friend Opportunity
The experimental rock band re-releases its fantastic 2007 album with only 1000 copies. You might be lucky to get it, but be proud if you do – it’s a genuine classic.
Fleet Foxes – Helplessness Blues/Grown Ocean
A nice little two-track preview of the upcoming album from, arguably, the best folk band in the world – if anything, buy it for the cover art.
Gorillaz – The Fall
This iPad-created album, released initially for free last Christmas, isn’t for everyone – it’s certainly very different to the Gorillaz you probably know – but it’s bound to be one of the more popular RSD releases, and certainly worth checking out.
Jimi Hendrix – Fire/Touch You
An alternative version of one of Hendrix’s best ever songs, and a previously unreleased studio recording. How can you possibly not want this?
Mumford & Sons/Laura Marling – Dharohar Project
Post-breakup awkwardness between Mumford and Marling aside, it’s nice to see them both do something different – namely, collaborating with Indian folk musicians.
My Chemical Romance – Na Na Na (Na Na Na Na Na Na Na Na Na)
Hah. Just kidding.
Nirvana – Hormoaning
Yeah, Foo Fighters do have a release out for RSD, but if you’re looking for classic 90s grunge, this is where to go.
Panda Bear – Tomboy
As good as any AnCo album, Noah Lennox’s latest solo album is a thing of true beauty. Definitely worth a buy.
The Flaming Lips – Heady Nuggs
Possibly the most mind-blowingly brilliant thing you could buy on Saturday. Five albums in one, including Yoshimi Battles the Pink Robots and The Soft Bulletin – if you’ve never heard these albums before, this is your chance. Your exclusive, £100 chance. Sorry. Maybe your local record store will give it to you for a tenner.
The Naked and Famous – This Machine/No Light
A double EP from the up-and-coming New Zealand rock band. However, though this is a nice RSD exclusive, if you’re really wanting to get some South Pacific action, try to find their debut album, Passive Me, Agressive You. Not only is it a fantastic record, but it’s also one of the most beautiful-looking vinyls you’ll ever see.