Retro Audio Koolness

Musically, 2010 was all about the 70's for me.  I re-discovered how awesome the B-52's first album was and Television, Blondie, the Ramones, T-Rex, and Joy Division went along with me on walks, in the car and at work.
Blue Cassette Tape journal

Along with the retro tunes, my husband and I splurged on a record player.  This Christmas a very merry vinyl one.

Red & Purple Retro Keyboard journal

Inspired, my husband created some rad audio centric retro designs.  Cassette tapes, 80's keyboards, record players and such that he designed were made into stamps so I could create really cool retro journals.  Next, I'm thinking about transferring these awesome designs onto clothing.

Play That Funky Music mini journal









Tweet

Back to the Future

Records are more than just nostalgic at this point- they are here to stay.  Whereas I feel sentimental about cassette tapes, I actually prefer listening to a record now and then.  Most people like the warm sound of analog over digital.  The cover art is an obvious bonus.  I appreciate the time it takes to put on a record.  I'm obviously not alone because a lot of bands still insist up creating albums on vinyl.

Let's face it- MP3's are too easy.  Kind of like McDonald's, without the grease.  Remember how hard it used to be to find a cassette by that college radio band you adored way back in high school?  Well, I feel the same excitement when I've found something I really wanted on vinyl.
So, slow life down.  Stop what you are doing and take the time to play side B.  Rock out to the Doors or Blondie like there's nothing else you have to do.




Tweet

Nostalgia and Cassettes

There's something beautiful about vinyl albums.  There is an audible warmth that CD's never had.  You could experience the cover art- it is a photograph in your hands.  And big.  Everything bigger is more precious, right?  The process is there too.  Open the stereo lid.  Carefully remove the record and lay it on the turntable.  Gently apply the needle.  Effort was involved.  Senses were engaged.
Cassettes are a different matter.  The era of boom boxes, the walkman, and mixed tapes.  Music is suddenly portable and easy to use.  Not that it ever took a rocket scientist to operate a record player, but it did require a certain amount of finesse.  Even the 8 track wasn't as easily transportable.  The walkman fits in your hand.  You can even jog and listen to music with one!
Every now and then I buy a cassette at a yard sale.  Where did all of my tapes go?  I found Blondie tucked into the buffet at Grandma's house this summer.  Anyway, my car has a cassette and CD player, so it they are still functional.  Although the sound drives me a little kooky after a while and I switch back to CD.

cassette tape #2 by Joseph Von Stengel
Can't tell you how much I regret giving away all of the mixed tapes that friends and ex-boyfriends gave me.  It recorded an era of time, a moment of who they were with me.  That's more important than sound quality.

cassette tape #3 by Joseph Von Stengel



Tweet