Record Show Attracts Music Junkies of All Ages

Music fanatics flipped through endless boxes of record albums on Sunday, searching for their favorite bands of the past or eager to find something new to listen to. proved to be a hit in its first go around, and the three friends who made it all happen-- Phil Chaput, Dave Hudon and Dave Perry—were successful in bringing a popular record show back to Chelmsford.

Dealers from all over New England brought their collections of vinyl, CDs, concert posters, books, t-shirts and more and turned the into a rock 'n roll paradise. Dealers took the time to chat with customers, getting caught up in discussions about different bands and albums, and sharing a common bond through their love for music.

 “I do about 12 shows a year and a weekly flea market,” said vendor Michael Meito of Melrose. “Record albums are still a popular collector’s item—people like to have something in their hand, cover art to look at and that original sound.”

Many customers had the same opinions about vinyl verses digital music, saying that the way that music was made to be heard can only be found on a record album.

Big Ed's record shows were a staple in the Chelmsford area back in the 80s and 90s at the old Chelmsford Elks, and Big Phil’s Record Show wanted to bring back the same type of show and honor the good memories of Big Ed.

Bargains were made with customers and great deals could be found at every table. Customers took the time to pick up record albums, look at the detailed artwork and read information about the bands and songs.

“You can’t hold an MP3 file in your hands like a record album,” said dealer Ed Herbert of Framingham. “Albums are meant to be played in order from beginning to end. Buying one single song is like ripping out one chapter of a book. You won’t get the full picture that way.”

According to many of the dealers, recent record shows in Somerville and Amherst attracted many college students who were happy to get a pile of record albums for less than the price of a single CD.

“College kids are really into vinyl now,” said Herbert. “They are learning that listening to music on your phone is not the way you are suppose to listen to it.”

Many younger music fans could be spotted flipping through boxes of albums themselves, right beside their parents, picking out their own favorite bands.

“All my friends buy music on iTunes—I’m the only one with record albums,” said first time record show attendee Chris Jewell, 14 of Chelmsford. “Some of my favorite bands are Led Zeppelin, the Beatles and Metallica. But there’s a really big variety of albums here today which is cool.”

With customers piling in the door all day, it was apparent that Chaput, Hudon and Perry were happy with the outcome of the show they put together. Plans to have at least two record shows a year at the Chelmsford Elks are already in the works.  

“The show was fantastic,” said Phil Chaput. “When you look and see the aisles full and people at every table, you know it’s a success. We’ve been taking advice and input from customers so that we can make it even better next time, but for our first show, this was just phenomenal.”