In the pre-digital music era, vinyl records reigned supreme. Albums would frequently go out of print, sometimes due to poor sales, other times simply because initial pressings sold out. Unlike today’s streaming services that offer instant access to vast music libraries, vinyl enthusiasts often face a frustrating reality: the scarcity and exorbitant prices of out-of-print LPs on the secondary market. This article explores 15 criminally out-of-print albums that deserve a vinyl reissue, satisfying the cravings of rock, folk, and Americana fans worldwide.
The Vinyl Resurgence and the Problem of Scarcity
The resurgence of vinyl records has brought a renewed appreciation for the tangible and auditory experience of analog music. However, this revival has also created a supply-and-demand imbalance for certain albums, leading to inflated prices on platforms like Discogs and Amazon. While streaming provides convenient access, the unique warmth and dynamic range of vinyl remain unparalleled for many audiophiles. This has created a demand for reissues of out-of-print albums, allowing a new generation of music lovers to experience these classic records in their intended format.
15 Albums Deserving a Vinyl Reissue
Several factors contribute to an album’s out-of-print status, ranging from label closures and licensing issues to the artist’s personal preferences. The following albums represent a diverse range of genres and artists, all united by their unavailability on vinyl and the fervent desire among fans for their reissue.
Beach Boys, The Smile Sessions
The Smile Sessions compiles studio outtakes and attempts to reconstruct the legendary, unreleased Beach Boys album intended as the follow-up to Pet Sounds. This album, notorious for pushing Brian Wilson into psychosis and baffling Mike Love with its lyrical complexity, remains a holy grail for fans. Brian Wilson’s solo version, Brian Wilson Presents Smile, is also out of print, further fueling the demand for a vinyl reissue of these pivotal recordings.
Buckingham Nicks, Buckingham Nicks
The abundance of unofficial bootlegs underscores the demand for an official reissue of Buckingham Nicks’ self-titled album. This historical artifact, instrumental in Lindsey Buckingham and Stevie Nicks joining Fleetwood Mac, deserves a proper release regardless of the duo’s current relationship. This album is not just a footnote in music history, it’s a fine example of early ’70s California folk-rock.
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Cheap Trick, Cheap Trick (1997)
Cheap Trick’s 1997 self-titled album, aimed at a younger audience influenced by their music, remains unavailable on vinyl. This energetic blast of power pop, featuring standout tracks like “Say Goodbye” and “Carnival Game,” deserves a vinyl release. The unfortunate demise of their then-label, Red Ant/Alliance, shortly after the album’s release contributed to its vinyl absence. A reissue of this album, and perhaps their 2009 release, The Latest, would be welcomed by fans.
Coverdale Page, Coverdale Page
Despite initial mixed reactions, the collaboration between David Coverdale of Whitesnake and Jimmy Page of Led Zeppelin has gained recognition over time. Both artists have expressed interest in a reissue, potentially with bonus material, but it remains confined to CD bargain bins and expensive bootlegs. Coverdale Page merits a proper vinyl release, allowing fans to fully appreciate its unique blend of hard rock and blues.
Duran Duran, Duran Duran (a.k.a. “The Wedding Album”)
Duran Duran’s 1993 self-titled album, often referred to as “The Wedding Album,” marked a successful comeback for the band. While their first five albums have been reissued on vinyl, this album, featuring hits like “Ordinary World” and “Come Undone,” remains absent. Its eclectic mix of pop, rock, and cover songs deserves the same vinyl treatment.
Hindu Love Gods, Hindu Love Gods
The unlikely combination of R.E.M. backing Warren Zevon on blues covers and a Prince song resulted in the surprisingly successful Hindu Love Gods album. This unique project deserves a vinyl reissue, allowing fans to experience the unexpected synergy between these artists in an analog format.
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Indigo Girls, Rites of Passage
While their self-titled debut album has seen a vinyl reissue, other Indigo Girls albums from their commercial peak remain unavailable. Rites of Passage, featuring fan favorites like “Galileo” and “Ghost,” deserves a vinyl release, along with other gems like Nomads – Indians – Saints and Swamp Ophelia.
John Lennon, Menlove Ave.
Despite mixed reactions upon its 1986 release, Menlove Ave., a compilation of John Lennon outtakes, particularly from the Rock ‘n’ Roll sessions, holds a special place for many fans. A vinyl reissue would allow a new generation to appreciate these often-overlooked recordings.
Jack Logan, Bulk
This 1994 compilation of lo-fi home recordings by Jack Logan, a Georgia-based swimming pool installer and musician, garnered critical acclaim upon its release. Hailed as a hidden gem, Bulk deserves a vinyl box set release to showcase its extensive collection of songs and unique lo-fi aesthetic.
Van Morrison, Enlightenment
Several Van Morrison albums from the early-to-mid-90s remain absent from vinyl. Enlightenment, featuring the hit “Real, Real Gone” and other standout tracks, deserves a reissue. Other worthy candidates include Hymns to the Silence and Too Long in Exile.
Motley Crue, Motley Crue
Motley Crue’s 1994 self-titled album, featuring John Corabi on vocals, remains unavailable on vinyl. This often-overlooked album, showcasing a heavier sound and a departure from their glam metal roots, deserves a reissue.
Robert Plant, Mighty ReArranger
Considered by many to be Robert Plant’s finest solo work, Mighty ReArranger showcases his diverse musical explorations. This 2004 album, featuring a blend of rock, folk, and world music influences, deserves a vinyl reissue to fully capture its dynamic range and sonic depth.
Prince, The Black Album
Shrouded in mystique, The Black Album, withdrawn by Prince shortly before its planned 1987 release, has become a legendary artifact. Despite its limited official release, the album’s unique funk and rock blend warrants a proper vinyl reissue.
Bob Seger, Back in ’72
Despite Bob Seger’s personal dislike for the album, Back in ’72 features the original studio version of “Turn the Page” and other noteworthy tracks. Its unavailability on CD and streaming services further emphasizes the need for a vinyl reissue.
Superdrag, In the Valley of Dying Stars
Superdrag’s 2000 album, In the Valley of Dying Stars, a power-pop gem often compared to the works of Teenage Fanclub and Matthew Sweet, deserves a vinyl reissue and wider recognition.
Conclusion: The Importance of Vinyl Reissues
These 15 albums represent a small fraction of the deserving out-of-print vinyl records. Reissuing these albums would not only satisfy the demand of collectors and audiophiles but also introduce a new generation to these often-overlooked musical gems. The vinyl resurgence provides a unique opportunity to preserve and celebrate these albums in their intended format.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions about Out-of-Print Vinyl
Q: Why are some albums so expensive on the secondary market?
A: Scarcity due to limited original pressings and high demand drives up prices on platforms like Discogs and eBay.
Q: What are the chances of these albums being reissued?
A: It depends on various factors, including licensing agreements, artist approval, and label interest. Fan campaigns and increased demand can influence reissue decisions.
Q: Are there any other out-of-print albums that deserve a reissue?
A: Absolutely! We encourage you to share your suggestions and favorite out-of-print albums in the comments below. Let’s keep the conversation going and advocate for the music we love!
