If you were one of the 500 people at the first VINYL MANIA back in June, you know what a blast it was. If you want more or missed it, October 17th will offer a second opportunity. Unlike the sleepyhead Sunday morning shows that vinyl junkies are all too used to, VM cranks on Saturday evening with excitement aided by a full cash bar and DJ. Hi-Fidelity Records will be spinning tunes the entire evening.
Besides new and used records, the convention’s 25 dealers will also be selling CDs, DVDs, vintage Tee shirts, books, rock magazines, stereo equipment and music memorabilia. VINYL MANIA continues to grow into a regional event. Nine new dealers will participate – including ones coming from Rochester, Jamestown and Ohio.
Considered by most to be a dead medium 15 years ago, vinyl record sales have steadily grown and doubled this past year. When the two Jimmys, Seth, and Stephen introduce the night’s entertainment, they invariably hold up a 12” record cover of the artist’s latest release. A whole new generation of vinyl collectors has emerged and this younger crowd was well represented at the first VM. Just getting started, they tend to need everything. One interesting trend is the increasing number of young women attending record shows, which has traditionally been heavily male dominated territory.
The materiality factor such as the cover artwork, album design, and various colored vinyl has significantly contributed to the medium’s appeal. Their fragile nature means buyers examine condition when shopping for used, then after purchase, handle them carefully and play sparingly since they do wear with use. Most vinyl aficionados extol the warmth one experiences from an analog source that they say cannot be matched in the digital realm. To enjoy the full effect, quality stereo equipment is required and that too will be for sale at VM.
Find out what all the buzz is about and get in the vinyl GROOVE on Saturday, October 17th 6pm -10pm admission $4, Early Bird admission 5-6pm $10. American Legion Post #205 3354 Delaware Ave,. Kenmore NY 14217
Photo: Glenn Murray