ON THE RECORDs: Notes from the Vinyl Revival

Part memoir, part travelogue, part love letter to music history: Graham Sharpe's On the Records: Notes from the Vinyl Revival delves into the enduring appeal of vinyl, weaving together personal anecdotes with insights from across the record industry. Far from being a relic of a bygone era, this book eloquently argues that vinyl records have not only survived but actively flourished, becoming the cherished music medium of choice for baby-boomers and a whole new generation of enthusiasts. As any collector knows, each acquired record carries its own unique story, and the recent Covid-19 lockdowns prompted many "vinylholics," including Sharpe himself, to delve deeper into their motivations for collecting, to carefully assess their existing treasures, and to joyfully rediscover long-forgotten favourites.

Following Sharpe's previous global trek through over a hundred record shops in Vinyl Countdown, On the Records now explores the profound impact of recent global events on the record industry and thoughtfully considers the enduring reasons behind vinyl's beloved – and booming – resurgence. Sharpe masterfully blends personal memoir with elements of travelogue, music history, and social commentary, creating a mesmerising narrative that will resonate with anyone who vividly remembers the thrill of buying their first LP and any music fan who finds pleasure in the almost magical ability of records to transport you back in time.

Adding rich texture and diverse perspectives, On the Records features insightful interviews and contributions from a wide range of voices across the vinyl ecosystem. Shop owners share their experiences on the front lines of the revival, record company insiders offer their industry insights, online and postal sellers discuss the evolving marketplace, auction organisers detail the high-stakes world of rare pressings, market traders recount their tales from the crates, and passionate amateur collectors share their stories with refreshing candour, warmth, and humour.

Through these interwoven narratives, Sharpe paints a compelling picture of a community bound by a shared love for the tangible and tactile experience of vinyl. On the Records is a celebration of the format's resilience, its cultural significance, and the deep connection it fosters between music and memory. It's a must-read for seasoned collectors and curious newcomers alike, offering a thoughtful and engaging exploration of why the needle dropping on a vinyl record continues to hold such enduring appeal.