There is little Zia Records hasn't done to support the music scene in the Valley of the Sun. From consistently releasing music compilations, as well as providing an outlet for local musicians to sell their records, tapes, and cds, to offering the latest music on multiple formats for appreciative fans in our little corner of the world, Zia has been a mainstay for as long as most people can remember. This year, though, for Record Store Day (April 18), they are cranking it up a notch.
Zia is celebrating 35 years in business this year, so patrons at several stores will find some awesome surprises are awaiting them for them on this, the ninth observance of Record Store Day. All Zia stores will be celebrating the release of You Heard Us Back When which features a plethora of bands from Las Vegas, Phoenix, and Tucson. This is the ninth such compilation and promises to be one of the best combinations of variety and talent you will find on any local release this year. Several of the bands will be doing in-store performances at various Zia locations as well.
In addition to the compilation, there are over 400 Record Store Day special releases (vinyl only!) to search for, including some of rock and roll's heaviest hitters. One of the highlights is an exclusive record from Tegan and Sara that the duo recorded at the Thunderbird Road Zia in 2013. There will be 500 copies on purple vinyl and another 4,800 on blue vinyl, so be sure and grab a copy if you are so inclined.
While there is significant local talent playing sets at the stores, there will be higher-profile entertainment as well. Boise, Idaho's indie rock legends Built to Spill will play at the Camelback store at 12 p.m. and Tucson's Giant Sand will play the Speedway Boulevard store (Tucson) at 4 p.m. Needless to say, what an opportunity for indie rock fanatics to see two great bands play for free (gas money not included) and perhaps pick up some new and old music you can't get anywhere else after shopping the Record Store Day releases.
Find any show in Metro Phoenix via our extensive online concert calendar.
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