Albums Are Here to Stay

When was the last time Miles Davis, Robert Plant and Jimmy Page played the same venue together? Think Linda Ronstadt and Anita Baker have? Check this out - Steely Dan and the Temptations. The best way to get front row seats to hear the best music ever is easier than you think. Have you thought about dropping by the world renowned Blue Note Jazz Club in the Village in NYC? How about Yoshi's in Oakland? Thinking Catalina Bar & Grill in Hollywood? Bakers Keyboard Lounge in Motown? Nope. Try spinning some vinyl in the listening room at your own crib.

Playing albums is more than simple nostalgia. It can be therapeutic and in some ways spiritual. You won't mind the exercise you get from getting up and down to turn over stacks of black flap jacks. And shopping for records give way to some of the best afternoon and evening fun you have probably had in a long time.

There are plenty of record stores around selling used vinyl. If you don't want to take the time to look for a certain album most stores will do the work for you and call you when it arrives. Be sure to look for scratches and ask if you can listen to a few cuts just be sure you're getting good quality. Prices seem to vary from source to source, but know that when you get original liners notes, you often get a well cared for album. Remember those cleaning kits? They'll have those too.

You may luck up on a yard sale where people practically give away old vinyl. Don't be surprised if your parents put away a few albums that you left behind when you left home. Siblings are another good source for retrieving classics.

Those old 33 1/3's have a life of their own, with plenty of memories of the good old days and they provide a means for serious conversation when entertaining guests. Have an album party where friends come cover with a few of their favorites tucked under arms, giving everybody a turn to spin some grooves. You just might be willing to share some of that Highland Park Single Malt Scotch you've been stingy with. Don't get too happy and overcook the Kebab out on the grill either.

Shirley Caesar, Rare Earth and Smokey can't wait to share the same turn table.