We got a bunch of Exposed writers to rifle through their vinyl collection and pick the one which means the most to them. If that wasn’t tricky enough for any self-respecting music lover, they only had a few lines each to explain why. Challenge set.
Tomita – Bermuda Triangle
That music is electronic is now just a fact of life. From its recording and production to its consumption. But none of it would have been possible without the early analogue pioneers of the 60s and 70s. Isao Tomita was one. Crazy cover, crazy guy, crazy music.
– Aaron Jackson
Gorillaz – Feel Good Inc.
Any millennial record collector will know how hard it is to find a copy of Gorillaz’ seminal album ‘Demon Days’ so when I stumbled across the next best thing, an original ‘Feel Good Inc’ single, in the world’s largest record store, Amoeba Records in LA, I had to get it. A steal at a mere $6!
– Joshua Shreeve
Simon and Garfunkel’s Greatest Hits
One of many records I snaffled from my parents’ collection, there’s obvious musical merit here but sentimental value too. Time has been cruel and rendered it no longer in the best of nick: it’s tattered, torn and jumps all over the place on ‘The Boxer’. But when I drop the needle, kick back and recall how my young parents would listen to this together in the attic of their first home (the downstairs frequently flooded due to faulty plumbing) it doesn’t half give you a warm feeling inside.
– Joseph Food
Todd Rundgren – A Wizard, A True Star
I’ve have two vinyl copies of this, complete with lyrics and gate-fold sleeve. The first side was one continuous groove of 12 songs with no gaps, some of which were barely a minute long, and with almost every instrument played by Rundgren himself. He was a master of the studio and his psychedelic collage of ideas and styles sat perfectly alongside the surreal cover images. Tame Impala, Hot Chip and other cite this as their favourite album ever, and you can add me to their ranks.
– Mark Perkins
The Beatles – Rubber Soul
My most prized record is Rubber Soul by The Beatles. I grew up listening to The Beatles (thanks to mega fan Dad) and spent my uni days in their hometown of Liverpool, where you simply can’t escape the fab four. This was my first ever record, purchased by a close friend who knew all too well that ‘In My Life’ was my favourite Beatles track.
– Laura Copestake
Joy Division – Unknown Pleasures
The first vinyl I bought at the age of 16. I actually bought it on RSD because I see it as a day to celebrate vinyl and music in general, not just the special releases. It came from a small record shop in Manchester and to this day, it has a special place in my heart. The album means a lot to me but the vinyl means a lot more; it make the emotions sound rawer.
– Brigid Harrison-Draper
