Launched just last year by a group of UK cassette label owners including Steven Rose of Sexbeat Records, Matt Flag of Suplex Cassettes, and Jen Long of Kissability, Cassette Store Day is raising its game this year, September 27, with a ton more releases and a US branch run by American cassette aficionados Burger Records.
In the run up to the big day, this Saturday, we’re asking some of our favourite Cassette Store Day artists to tell us about their favourite cassettes and explain what cassettes mean to them. First up is Australian singer-songwriter Courtney Barnett.
Cassette Store Day Pop Quiz #1
What’s the first cassette you owned?
Ugly Kid Joe – America’s Least Wanted. Favourite tracks were Mr Record Man and Everything About You.
What was the last cassette you bought?
Bonnie Prince Billy.
What’s your favourite cassette ever?
Janet Jackson – Together Again.
What’s the best cassette artwork you’ve ever seen?
Midnight Oil – Red Sails In The Sunset.
What’s the best mix cassette you ever gave/received?
Nick Williamson made a mixtape for me and my bro. It was the only music we owned and we played it to death. It had EMF, Unbelievable. Jimi, Voodoo Child. Guns N’ Roses, November Rain. Nirvana, Lithium. Red Hot Chili Peppers, Give It Away. Spiderbait, Calypso. Killing In The Name Of…
Why are cassettes awesome?
They are the same shape as a packet of cigarettes but cheaper and better for you.
What release are you most looking forward to this store cassette day?
UV Race – Greatest Hits.
See more from our Cassette Store Day takeover.
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