START YOUR OWN VINYL REVOLUTION

How to get your collection off the ground

Millennials, many of whom weren’t even born when albums were still the preferred method of listening to music, are fueling the vinyl album resurgence. As such, this group may need a little guidance to help build a collection that not only pays tribute to the past but delivers enough high-fidelity sound to satisfy even the most discerning audiophile.

Here are 10 diverse albums to get you started…

Beastie Boys - Paul’s Boutique (1989)

The Beastie Boys’ sophomore follow-up to Licensed to Ill, Paul’s Boutique is considered the band’s best work, despite lackluster sales. Co-produced by the Dust Brothers, the album’s use of multi-layering turned sampling into an artform. Mojo called it "one of the most inventive rap albums ever made". Hip hop has never sounded so good thanks to the improved remastering.

Joni Mitchell – Blue (1971)

Introspective, melancholy and hopeful, Joni Mitchell’s masterpiece recently turned 50 and is still just as relevant today. Originally criticized for a thin and tinny sound when first produced, the 2007 reissue restores the sparsely produced effort to full glory. A singer songwriter exposing herself soo completely deserves to be heard in its rawest form.

Daft Punk – Random Access Memories (2013)

An homage to classic 70’s disco in the Giorgio Moroder and Nile Rodgers vein, French electronic dance duo, Daft Punk recorded this dance album using live instruments (!) that dares you not to dance.

Frank Sinatra - In the Wee Small Hours (1955)

In the Wee Small Hours, a concept album dealing with loneliness, introspection, failed relationships, depression and love, finds a more sensuous and somber sounding Sinatra. Bandleader and composer Nelson Riddle's lush arrangements and intense orchestrations are evenly matched by the singer's expressive, melancholy vocals.

Bob Marley and the Wailers – Legend (1984)

This pleasing collection of reggae hits should be required listening to anyone wanting a crash course in the authentic island sound. The songs convey a casual, steamy and rollicking groove that will wash away all your real-world stressors – at least temporarily.

Fleetwood Mac – Tusk (1979)

Far from the commercial success of Rumours, Lindsey Buckingham’s experimental double album follow-up is a feast for audiophiles thanks to its many intricate subtleties and meticulous production. While the artistic influences can get overwhelming, Stevie Nicks and Christine McVie's heartbreaking, romantic lyrics and melodies save it from self-indulgence.

Wu-Tang Clan - Enter The Wu-Tang - 36 Chambers (1993)

The hip hop lover’s holy grail, Wu-Tang Clan’s debut album is a raw, gritty down and dirty rap record with an underground “street” aesthetic that translates beautifully on a lo-fi system.

Dolly Parton – Coat of Many Colors (1971)

On her eighth solo album, Dolly established herself a true artist, writing seven of the album’s 10 most personal songs combining country, gospel, rock, pop and folk. The songs explore everything from being born on the wrong side of the tracks, death, love and infidelity.

The Beatles – Revolver (1966)

Considered the Fab Four’s best album, Revolver pushed the boundaries of typical pop music by using unorthodox practices in its recording. Influenced by the 60’s counterculture movement, Revolver was a glorious mishmash combining song styles like psychedelic and progressive rock, electronica and even world music. And whether on purpose or not, when “Revolution #9” is played backwards, it sounds like John Lennon repeating the phrase “Turn me on, dead man,” which at the time fueled rumors of Paul’s untimely (and untrue) death.

Miles Davis –Kind of Blue (1959) Considered one of the greatest jazz albums of all time, Davis’ “Kind of Blue” challenged the status quo of jazz and came to be revered as a genre game changer. Finding out that most of the album was unrehearsed only makes the result even more stunning. The end result is an improvisational, innovative and unvarnished album.

Remember to preserve the sound of vinyl, make sure to only pick up your records by their edges. This will help eliminate grease and dust from the surface that can affect sound quality.