Record Store Day Recommendations With Wrongtom

“If you don’t like this then just throw away your ears” – Craig Charles

Which RSD 2019 releases will you be picking up?

I’ve got my eye on the Alice Clark and Emerson albums. Been after both on vinyl for years.

Do you see the ‘record revival’ slowing down? Why is it important to support independent record shops?

If it’s slowing down it’s probably just the fad buyers. Specialist shops and labels will still have their core audience who keep them afloat. Also it might mean there’s a bit less of a wait at the pressing plant if fewer 180g represses of Glen Campbell and Ghostbusters are produced. Independent record shops were once the beating heart of the music business. They might not be as relevant today but having these amazing little hubs, full of passionate knowledgeable music lovers, it all helps to create a community. I love the broad possibilities of the internet – streaming, and Bandcamp especially – but nothing quite beats going into a shop and discovering new and old music amongst like-minded people.

What was the first record you ever bought?

Doug E Fresh & The Get Fresh Crew “The Show”

If you were to choose five favourite records from your collection, which would they be and why?

Almost impossible but I’ll give it a try…

Bob & Marcia “I Don’t Care”

Gary Bartz Ntu Troop “Harlem Bush Music” (I’m gonna cheat and choose both albums)

The Specials “More Specials”

Sexual Harassment “I Need A Freak”

Beyonce “4”

Nope, sorry, impossible!

Which record stores have played an important role in your life?

So many but a few off the top of my head…

Banquet Records in Kingston

Ray’s Jazz Shop in Central London

Dub Vendor in Clapham

Collectors Records in Kingston

Virgin Records in Brighton (mainly because they had this a great soda bar in the 80s that did nice milkshakes)