Still on the hunt for a few extra holiday stocking stuffers? If you’re a music fan or buying for one, the great news is that there’s always some kind of schwag to grab (and give) on the cheap, and we’ve put together a short list of music-related clothes, bags, books, and more to lend a hand with those last hectic moments of holiday shopping.
The Merge Records Companion
Celebrating 20 years of music is North Carolina’s Merge Records, home to artists like Lambchop, She & Him, Arcade Fire, Spoon, and dozens of others. As part of its ongoing anniversary celebration, the label has compiled this little volume, a visual look at its last two decades of releases. The covers of each and every album, EP, single, and DVD ever released by Merge are featured in the book, which also includes introductory essays by label founders Mac and Laura. Note that this is a limited edition item, so if you haven’t snapped it up by now, get thee to the Merge Records site.
Cost: $15.98
Buy
Bright Eyes – A Christmas Album
Back in the days when Bright Eyes was Conor Oberst plus a very large and ever-rotating cast of musicians, Saddle Creek released A Christmas Album, which saw the crew putting an indie-folk twist on traditional Christmas jams. The album, which originally dropped in 2002, has only ever been available on CD, but this year, the label repackaged it on 180 gram vinyl (that’s white, apparently) and is selling the record exclusively through its online store. Purchase includes the album and code for a high-quality MP3 version. All proceeds will benefit the Nebraska AIDS Project.
Cost: $15
Buy
Vinyl is Forever Apparel
Vinyl has undergone resurgence in the last 10 years, and whether you’re a longtime crate-digger that owns a battered copy of Hoyt Axton’s Road Songs or a newbie who simply knows that Arcade Fire sounds better on 180g, you’re hardly alone in your fetish. Soundscreen Deisgn—avid enthusiasts of the medium—have created an entire apparel line dedicated to the love of vinyl that features bright, bold designs on series of t-shirts, hoodies, and tote bags. Currently there are three editions to choose from. All garments are 100% Organic Alternative Apparel and limited edition.
Cost: $18 – $40
Buy
Wilco (the tote)
There are many tote bags in the world. None manages the affordable/efficient/hilarious combination quite as well as this one. I bought mine at a show this past summer and it’s been everything from a grocery bag to a piece of carry-on luggage to a conversation sparker. The tote is available as an individual item, or as part of Wilco (the bundle), which includes the bag, a vinyl copy of Wilco (the album), and a sticker. It’s worth noting that the entirety of Wilco’s online store right now is a music fan’s holiday shopping paradise, so take a look at some of the other fantastic packages up for sale.
Cost: $8 (bag only), $25 (bundle)
Buy
Portrait of a Young Man Trying to Draw
William Schaff is probably best known for creating the album art for bands like Okkervil River (The Stage Names) and Godspeed You! Black Emperor (Lift Your Skinny Fists Like Antennas to Heaven). Recently, he gathered 10 scratchboard images on linen paper and compiled them into a hand-bound book that’s signed and limited to a mere 500 copies. Needless to say, this one won’t last long in stores.
Cost: $34.99
Buy
Check Your Head Pillowcases
Most music-themed home decor is, admittedly, a cheesefest, but we wouldn’t be true enthusiasts without one or two items in the apartment. Tacky up the throw cushions with a set of these DJ-friendly pillowcases. (though if you’re out of college, you might want to relegate these to the man den.)
Cost: $24.99
Buy
OrgiAudio Speakers
This item grabbed Time Magazine‘s award for Best Invention of 2009. The eco-friendly folding speakers are made entirely from recycled material, require no batteries, are compatible with any device (so long as it has a headphone jack), and are nicely designed to boot. Available themes right now include Cityscape, Daydream, Lake, Flowers, Surf Break, and Canvas. Or go the extra step and create your own at the OrgiAudio website.
Cost: From $16
Buy
