This book is the true story, documented sporadic diary style, of Press On Vinyl in Middlesbrough. Steve Spithray’s excitement and enthusiasm oozes from the pages and is wonderful to feel. When my review copy of ‘How To Build Your Own Record Pressing Plant’ arrived through the post my wife said, based on the title, that is the most boring book you will ever read. She is always right, at least she always was up to that point, I read the book in around three days. It has everything. Science, business, nerdiness, geekiness, vinyl and obviously, music.
Press On Vinyl was set up by David Todd and Danny Lowe from an initial idea which arose in a chat, just like so many wonderful ideas, but this one took flight in a huge way. Steve Spithray clearly has a great relationship with not only David and Danny, but also with pretty much everyone who played a part in getting this amazing venture off the ground. To have a new pressing plant in the UK at a time when the vinyl revival is in full flow is very special indeed. The highs and warts and all lows are documented eloquently and my interest in this story never waned once. Now I need to get myself up to Middlesbrough for a visit! As a footnote I also loved that there are a couple of people, places and bands mentioned that I actually know. Step forward Vinyl Eddie (York’s finest record shop), Avalanche Party (Possibly one of the best bands on the planet right now) and a special mention for Avalanche Party front man Jordan Bell. The book is out soon (3rd November), if you love records, love music or simply love a tail where a potential underdog reaches the top, get it. You will not be disappointed. It is published by Butterfly Effect, click here to order it via Bandcamp.
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