Records- A Great Collection of Music Collectors

By Maddy Cristall

Records is a tender look into the lives of avid vinyl collectors across Toronto. This is the follow up to filmmaker Alan Zweig’s revolutionary first feature titled Vinyl which was released twenty-one years ago. Vinyl captures the eccentricities and borderline neurosis of record collecting through a darker deposition. Records on the other hand provides uplifting insight into the sheer commitment of music fans. Zweig’s approach to the story is charmingly DIY and even captures him speaking candidly into the mirror about how his daughter has changed his life for the better. 

Collecting anything usually bleeds with a quirky admiration towards the subject at hand. Record collecting is no different except the payoff is audible bliss. Records generously showcases the diversity of folks who collect vinyl. The music taste of those interviewed vary from esoteric psych rock to Mariah Carey. There is nothing pretentious about anybody interviewed and their self awareness towards the impracticality of this hobby is paramount amongst all.

The glue that unites them is finding rare marvels found in various corners of the world that speak to them. There is something so captivating about the innocence of this seemingly strange yet paramount fascination towards vinyl. It is one of the few things in our contemporary world that hangs onto analogue glory.

These albums take up significant room in their home and each person involved explains why. One interviewee even had 12,000 records and counting. There is so much humanity and sincerity sprawled across the entire film. It evokes something truly extraordinary for viewers, especially those who not only love but ache for music. This is a truly important film for Canada, music and documentaries at large. Vancouver’s VIFF festival never ceases to provide innovative content.