As we wrap up 2023, it's time to take a reflective look back on my journey as a vinyl collector.
This year saw numerous wonderful additions to my collection, each one a unique testament to the power and beauty of music. The standout amongst them is the work of Justin Hurwitz, whose intricate compositions have deeply resonated with me, making him my favourite artist of the year. His music, with its emotional depth and melodic beauty, has been a constant companion throughout the year.
As I look at my growing collection, I can't help but marvel at how it has evolved. The records are more than just music; they are stories, memories, and experiences, encapsulated in vinyl. They reflect not just my taste in music, but also my growth and evolution as a collector.
Each record, each groove, represents a step in my ongoing journey as a vinyl collector—a journey of discovery, passion, and deep appreciation for the art of music.
MOST LISTENED TO SOUNDTRACK: LA LA LAND
One of the soundtracks that has most graced my turntable is the enchanting score for "La La Land" composed by Justin Hurwitz. The film itself is a celebration of music, dreams, and the love that intertwines the two, and its soundtrack perfectly encapsulates these themes.
From the first notes of "Another Day of Sun," the soundtrack transports you to the sun-drenched streets of Los Angeles, filled with hopeful dreamers. The music is a love letter to classic Hollywood musicals, yet it feels fresh and contemporary.
The jazz compositions, like "Herman's Habit," showcase the film's commitment to musical authenticity, while the beautifully melancholic "City of Stars," which won the Oscar for Best Original Song, provides an emotional anchor to the narrative.
In essence, the "La La Land" vinyl soundtrack not only serves as a reminder of the film's captivating story but also stands as a beautiful piece of music in its own right. It's a soundtrack I find myself returning to time and again, each listen revealing new layers and emotions.
MOST LISTENED TO ARTIST: JUSTIN HURWITZ
Without a doubt, the artist whose work I find myself returning to the most is Justin Hurwitz. A gifted composer, Hurwitz's music stands out for its emotional depth, melodic beauty, and intricate composition. His work on "La La Land" is an exquisite demonstration of his talent. With every listen, I discover new layers in his music, from the complex harmonies to the delicate interplay of instruments. His compositions, such as "City of Stars" and "Epilogue," are not just songs, but stories told through music, filled with emotions that resonate with me deeply. Listening to Justin Hurwitz's music is always a rich and rewarding experience.
In order, these are my favourite Scores/Soundtracks by Justin Hurwitz:
- "La La Land"
- "First Man"
- "Whiplash"
- “Babylon”
- “Guy and Madeline on a Park Bench”
MOVIE GENRE SOUNDTRACK MOST LISTENED TO: DISNEY ANIMATION
As a big fan of Disney movies, the soundtracks from these films top my most-played list. There's something magical about Disney music that transcends age and time. From the enchanting melodies of "Beauty and the Beast" and "The Little Mermaid" to the inspiring tunes of "Moana" and "Frozen," these soundtracks never fail to transport me to the vibrant worlds of Disney. The songs, filled with messages of hope, courage, and love, are timeless classics that continue to captivate me with each listen.
FAVOURITE VINYL PURCHASE OF 2023: HOME ALONE CHRISTMAS SNOW
Mondo's 'Home Alone' soundtrack release is a truly beautiful addition to any vinyl collection. Pressed on 'Christmas Snow' colored vinyl, this edition is not only a sonic treat but a visual one as well. The record's aesthetic appeal extends to its packaging, featuring exclusive artwork that captures the movie's nostalgic charm. The pressing's sound quality is excellent, ensuring a warm and immersive listening experience. This 'Home Alone' vinyl is a perfect blend of music, artistry, and holiday cheer.
BEST VALUE PURCHASE OF 2023: THE WONDERFUL WORLD OF DISNEY
One of the best value purchases in my collection is the "Wonderful World of Disney" vinyl box set. Costing just £15, this set contains 5 LPs, each packed with classic Disney songs. The variety and volume of music offered by this collection provide incredible value for money. From the charming melodies of "Snow White" to the energetic rhythms of "The Jungle Book", this collection spans a wide range of Disney's musical history. It's a collection that offers endless hours of listening pleasure.
MOST ASTHETIC VINYL: UP! DIECUT PICTURE DISC
One of the most visually stunning records in my collection is the die-cut vinyl release of the "Up" soundtrack by Mondo. The soundtrack itself, composed by the brilliant Michael Giacchino, is a remarkable journey through a range of emotions, perfectly encapsulating the heartwarming and poignant story of the film.
The vinyl edition goes a step further in making this soundtrack special. Pressed on 'Balloon-colored' vinyl, the record mirrors the film's iconic imagery of the colorful balloons that lift Carl's house.
Not only is this design visually striking, but it also adds a layer of emotional resonance, reminding listeners of the film's themes of adventure and the beauty of life's unexpected journeys. The combination of the visually engaging design, the vibrant color of the vinyl, and Giacchino's touching music makes the Mondo's 'Up' soundtrack a truly treasured piece in any vinyl collection.
AVERAGE SPEND ON SINGLE VINYL: £30
In my journey as a vinyl collector, I've experienced both ends of the spectrum when it comes to cost. I've splurged on some records that were quite expensive, seeing them as valuable additions to my collection. On the other hand, I've also found some real bargains, with records priced as low as 13 pence! These cheaper finds may not always be rare or sought-after, but they are often unique and interesting in their own right. On average, however, I've found that the typical spend on a vinyl in 2023 hovers around £30. This seems to be a comfortable middle ground, balancing quality and affordability.
THE ONE THAT GOT AWAY: WILLY WONKA AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY
One of the vinyl treasures I've been ardently seeking is the "Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory" soundtrack on gold vinyl. This captivating soundtrack, with its whimsical and enchanting melodies, is a gem I've long dreamed of adding to my collection. However, despite my best efforts, I've yet to find it at a reasonable price. The rarity of this gold vinyl edition, combined with the beloved status of the film and its music, has made it a highly sought-after item among collectors, and thus, it often commands a steep price. I remain hopeful and continue my search, eager to add this golden ticket of vinyl records to my collection.
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