Last time we counted, there were something like 11 million records on Discogs by around 6 million different bands and artists. That’s enough to test even the most hardened vinyl habit. It’s a vast, confusing world out there for the humble record collector, and we all need a little guidance sometimes. With that in mind, Long Live Vinyl dug out our little black book and called 30 of the most passionate record collectors we know, asking them each to recommend five albums they couldn’t live without – and you shouldn’t either. There were only two rules: no duplicates, and obvious choices such as The Dark Side Of The Moon, Revolver and Bob Dylan’s Christmas album were off limits. What follows is an essential list of 150 often lesser-known gems selected by a group of self-confessed helpless vinyl addicts – record shop owners, label bosses, musicians, writers and festival organisers. It’s like the ultimate Desert Island Discs, or your own personal record shopper. We’re confident you’ll find something on the list to pique your interest, but if you already have all 150 we salute you, you’re beyond our help…
INTRODUCING OUR COLLECTORS…