The Picture Disc Idea

A couple of nights ago, I got this big idea that I'd go shopping for some picture disc vinyl to go along with the component we'll be featuring on our July cover. (Hint: It's not a speaker.) You know, I was thinking it'd be no problem to find Jimi Hendrix all lit up in a purple haze or, better yet, some new indie band dressed in skinny jeans and moccasins being chased by a puma, or something. But I discovered that new picture disc vinyl isn't all that easy to come by. Surprisingly, I found that today's picture discs come from three main sources:

1. Boy bands
Fall Out Boy, The Killers, and The Bravery each have one. Fall Out Boy's picture disc is actually really cool-looking, but we couldn't use that. I mean, come on, it's Fall Out Boy. Totally inappropriate for Stereophile. I might buy it for my little sister, though.

2. Pop divas
It was no problem whatsoever to find picture discs from Janet Jackson, Kylie Minogue, Rihanna (hot!), Mariah (hotter!!), and Beyonce (hottest!!!), and while I'm sure some audiophiles out there would love to see any one of these lovely ladies on a cover of Stereophile, I can't even begin to imagine how many subscriptions would be cancelled over it.

3. Hardcore death metal acts
I came this close to putting a floating skull with flaming eyes surrounded by a circle of bloody pitchforks on the July cover of Stereophile. But, in the end, I figured it was just a bit too grim. Especially for a summer issue.

So much for the picture disc idea.

COMMENTS
Jerry's picture

Stephen,If you could promise a picture of Mariah, Rihanna, or Beyonce on a monthly basis in Stereophile (tastefully done, of course)...I would subscribe for LIFE, and then will it to my grandchildren!

Mike W.'s picture

Well, there is always the new Black Crowes album, which is neither death metal, a boy band or a pop diva. I think the art work on that one is pretty nice, even if the sound quality of the pressing is a bit flat. The disc is very similar to the cover - sort of a khaki with black indians and such.

Christian's picture

I came across a My Morning Jacket picture disc, but they are all dressed up as the Village People. A bit disturbing I must say.

AlexO's picture

Mariah is a bit thick for my tastes, but not enough to cancel my subscription.

Paul Basinski's picture

Try the Bop Shop in Rochester NY for picture discs, Tom's got a great selection. For that matter, these guys have one of the most extensive collections of vinyl on the east coast. (Certainly worth a trip from the City). Sample the Mexican at Village Gate while you're there.

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