Light In the Attic Records Hits the Road

In a time when music is most commonly transmitted through headphones or computer speakers, it can be easy to forget that vinyl records still have a place in many a music lover’s heart. Sure, you can easily purchase or download new tracks without even having to leave the house, but there is something so special about having a tangible collection of records to play.

The feeling you get when leafing through hundreds of vinyls at a record shop is one of nostalgia and excitement; when you purchase a record from a store, there is a delightful feeling of newness to be found in something old. This feeling is one of the reasons that Light In The Attic Records continues to produce albums on vinyl in the digital age, something they’ve been doing since they first opened shop in 2002. Light In The Attic is an independent record label that is known for reissuing classic musicians on vinyl as well as representing contemporary bands.

To pay homage to a culture of record-collectors and musicians, Light In The Attic takes takes an annual road trip, making stops at independent music labels and record shops across the country. Light In The Attic founders Matt Sullivan and Josh Wright explain,

“Sixty years ago, crafty salesmen hocked fresh pressed vinyl 45s from the trunks of their dinged Buicks, building hit records one hard-won sale at a time. Today, there is little left of the intensely personal and colorful record business of yesterday, however it still does indeed exist…This October, we will hit the road for our annual pilgrimage: The Light In The Attic Road Trip. Embarking from the Northeastern U.S., we will set out on a journey across America to sling records and meet the people, while each day documenting the trip live — as it unfolds,” of their annual trip.

This year, Light In The Attic will visit 80 record stores and labels along the east coast in just 14 days, documenting the adventure with Pitchfork TV. Their mission is to bring visibility to the spirit and vision of independent record shops, proving that vinyl still has a firm place in the music industry.

For more information about Light In The Attic Road Trip, visit the label's official website.  

Image 1: Light In The Attic Records
Image 2: Kendra K via Flickr CC