Music Services

Rdio Subscription

What: It should be no surprise that we’re fans of Rdio, what with the immense library and streaming quality being offered. And if you’re fans of our various Rdio playlists, then why not share the gift with a loved one. A five spot gets you unlimited streaming, or get those very same songs on your smartphone, Sonos, or Roku for a mere $10. Or heck, get the unlimited family plan for $18 and you and a loved one can share a plan, meaning you’ve bought yourself a gift without being a total jerk.

Buy: Rdio.com ($4.99-$17.99)

Universal Respect the Classics Vinyl Re-Releases

What: In efforts to highlight some of hip-hop’s most iconic releases, Universal’s Respect the Classics campaign aims to give them fresh vinyl pressings. While some have been out of print for years, like N.W.A.’s Straight Out of Compton and Eminem’s Slim Shady LP and The Eminem Show, some are given their first proper pressing, like Kanye West’s 808s and Heartbreaks. Check out the entire list of upcoming releases below.

Buy: Repsect the Classics (Prices Vary)

Record Store Day: Black Friday

What: For most record collectors, Christmas actually takes place during the third Saturday of April, Record Store Day. With efforts to bring such a feeling to the holiday season, Record Store Day has organized a slew of exclusive releases worthy for any music fan and collector, including a collection covers from the Civil Wars, The Flaming Lips’ Peace Sword EP, and the newest mix of Nirvana’s In Utero on some virgin, black vinyl. Get ready to gather up some warm blankets and jump in line outside your local record to pick up some releases for that special someone.

Check Out: 2014 Black Friday Releases

Feedbands

What: Feedbands’ mission of exposing new bands is creative, exclusive, and rewarding. The process starts with fans submitting their favorite unsigned artists to the website, where they are then placed in a poll amongst other bands. The winning act will have their record pressed on high-quality vinyl and sent to subscribers. Not only will they receive a first-pressing of the record, but also a download card for a digital format. If a subscriber doesn’t dig it, they can send it back and receive a full reimbursement. Not only is it a fantastic way to expose new bands through the best music medium possible, but also a risk-free process for fans to subscribe.

Buy: Feedbands

Pop Market Vinyl Bundles

What: For major vinyl collectors, here is the best website to follow for some awesome discounts. At the start of each week, Pop Market organizers select a handful of bands and bundle three to four albums from their discography on vinyl for an exclusive price. Recent bands featured on the website include The Strokes (see above), The National, Wilco, Beastie Boys, and Joy Division. Be sure to bookmark this site and give it a daily visit.

Buy: Pop Market