Record Store Day is a much-loved and well attended annual celebration of independent record stores. 2017 will mark the 10th anniversary of the event and there are over 500 gems to pick up this year in your local record store from some of music's most sought-after names.
We've got the rundown of 6 releases worth getting up early and in line for; it will save you buying them online a few days later at triple the cost - thank us later.
Blossoms - 'Blossoms'
The latter half of 2016 belonged to Stockport's Blossoms after they released their eponymous debut album in August.
The five-piece will be celebrating RSD this year with an unplugged EP pressed on coloured vinyl. Recorded live at Festival No. 6, look out for the undeniable bangers 'Blown Rose' and 'Charlemagne' on the track list.
The Smiths - 'The Boy With The Thorn In His Side'
The Smiths are one of those iconic bands that everyone knows and has an opinion of. If you're a fan it will be worth getting up early to grab a copy of their previously unheard demo recording of 'The Boy With The Thorn In His Side'.
This release is exclusive to RSD 2017 and the limited edition seven inch vinyl will also feature an unreleased version of their original B-side 'Rubber Ring'. How's that for a treat?
Bastille - 'Comfort of Strangers'
This is a brand new song from Bastille and was recorded during sessions for their last album 'Wild World'.
The release is also set to feature a B-side in the form of live fan favourite 'Warmth'. Appearing on white vinyl with a holographic sleeve, this is certainly one to add to your collection.
Kasabian - 'You're In Love With A Psycho'
The Leicester outfit recently returned with the lead track 'You're In Love With A Psycho' from their new album 'For Crying Out Loud' and Kasabian fans will soon be able to pick it up as a limited edition 10" vinyl. Definitely one to boast to your friends about.
David Bowie - 'Cracked Actor'
Wanting a bit more Bowie in your life? Then you're in luck. The legendary singer's vaults are being opened to celebrate the 10th anniversary of RSD.
'Cracked Actor' was recorded live in Los Angeles in 1974 and is a three-album set recorded during his 'Diamond Dogs' tour. This was also the tour that captured the BBC documentary of the same name.
Five sides of vinyl will allow you to hear material from 'Diamond Dogs', 'Aladdin Sane' and a handful of tracks that were previously meant for 'Young Americans' before being dropped altogether.
Keep an eye out for the sixth side of the three-album set, which will feature an etching of Bowie - a must for any fan to own.
Toto - 'Africa'
It's shaped like Africa! Need we say anymore? Probably, seeing as we're writing a guide that should help you navigate your way around the 500+ releases this year.
Seriously though, get your hands on a copy of Toto's Africa-shaped vinyl of his seminal 1982 release 'Africa' if you can. It's going to sell fast; you've been warned.
Record Store Day 2017 takes place on 22nd April.
Words Lauren Wade
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