Why are vinyl records, a format once thought obsolete, experiencing a meteoric rise in sales? In an age dominated by streaming and digital convenience, one might assume that vinyl would remain a relic of the past. Yet, Gen Z, audiophiles, and collectors alike are driving an unexpected resurgence. From the rich, analog sound to the tactile joy of album art, vinyl offers something that a lot of people feel digital can't replicate.  While this might not be considered “newsworthy”, it forms the basis of my interrogations and is a theme I am finding repeatedly in my research and day-to-day life. So, with that in mind let’s dig a little deeper…

The very foundation of this blog is to celebrate art for all that it is. For me, it is a celebration of all of the best parts of humanity which in itself is something to be discussed. This is where vinyl records come in. I have described vinyl records before as a gateway to another world, one free from the mundanity and monotony of reality. I also feel, aside from the transportive abilities of vinyl, it makes for an extremely rich and immersive listening experience that can be easily and rather beautifully shared. When I came across this article in recent vinyl news, I couldn’t help but relate and agree with what the author was saying. I can recall countless occasions when I have hosted friends or family, and the sound of a record has contributed a warmth to the room that couldn’t be replicated by a streaming service or speaker. This warmth has now become a cornerstone in our household. No day goes by without someone picking an album and pressing play while we have our breakfast or recall the days events in the evenings. It’s like an extra family member and provides a presence that genuinely would be felt if missing.

I think this is one of many driving forces behind the vinyl resurgence. Another article written this week affirms this view. Interestingly this one points out an idea that I had not initially considered. Whilst it might not seem so at first, there is actually a convenience factor with buying and owning vinyl. Streaming services are becoming increasingly riddled with paywalls and ads that are inconvenient and detract from the listening experience. Vinyl records, if nothing else, come with an assurance that when played, continue until changed or completed. A factor that has become valuable in age of interruption. For context, the digital era has long struggled with the incessant interruption and constant nature of advertising and capitalistic tendencies, often taking away from the experience of art consumption whether it be music, film or anything else. The digital era is one of convenience of access and experience, but its shortcomings are not without their weight. Music streaming is popular for a reason, but in the same way so is vinyl. With this in mind I would encourage those who are lucky enough to be in proximity to a vinyl record player, to take note of what they hear and experience, but also what they don’t experience. What you find might just make clear to you all the things you dislike about streaming, and the era of digital consumption more broadly.