The seventh annual CHIRP Record Fair & Other Delights, a vinyl extravaganza put on by the good people behind the Chicago Independent Radio Project, is set for this Saturday, April 18 and Sunday, April 19 at the Journeymen Plumbers' Union Hall (1340 W. Washington Blvd.) in the West Loop. If you've been spending too much time on iTunes, it's time to discover the joys of vinyl and (gasp!) CDs once again, and this is definitely the place to do it.
The CHIRP Record Fair will feature mostly Chicago-based record labels and dealers in attendance to sell their catalogues, including local favorites like Minty Fresh and Touch and Go. As for the "Other Delights" touted in the title? A multitude of artists, publications and other vendors will also be on hand, selling everything from concert posters from the 1960s and other memorabilia to music equipment. Famed graphic novelist Jeffrey Brown designed the fair's logo this year, which cleverly references the event's new home and can be found emblazoned on limited-edition posters and T-shirts also available for sale.
And, what self-respecting indie record fair would be complete without live music? A variety of bands and DJs will perform throughout the two-day event. Food sold at the fair will be provided by Reggies Rock Club in the South Loop, which is also hosting the post-event party featuring DJ sets on Sunday night starting at 7PM ($5 regular admission, $3 with fair ticket).
The CHIRP Record Fair & Other Delights will take place on Saturday and Sunday from 10AM-5PM. Admission will set you back $7 (or $5 will any CHIRP Record Fair ad or a record store receipt dated 4/18/09). Get first dibs on primo merch at a pre-opening viewing from 8-10AM on Saturday ($25).
