Over the years, I've assembled a list of seven-inch singles I most want to secure for my home jukebox -- and near the top of the roster is the 1988 Jane's Addiction release that pairs "Mountain Song" with "Standing in the Shower Thinking." I see copies of it available online every six months or so, but never at a price that I can, or would, pay. So imagine my excitement when I spotted the 45 among the items being made available for Record Store Day. The only potential problem: If it doesn't have a large center, it won't work in my juke. So drill, baby, drill -- and use the big bit.
Note: Record Store Day is an annual event honoring independent record stores -- a onetime retail staple that's becoming an endangered species. In an effort to preserve this important cultural resource, dozens of artists are lending their support to this year's bash on Saturday, April 18, by issuing exclusive material, including loads of unique seven-inch singles, that can only be found at retailers such as Twist & Shout, 2508 E. Colfax -- ground zero for the celebration in Denver. Each weekday between now and then, we'll feature a different 45 that's sure to make your collection cooler. Learn more at the Record Store Day website or the Twist & Shout home page.