Collection of America’s finest self-published cover artwork goes on show in New York

Exhibition explores the thoroughly life-affirming world of private press vinyl.

Combining an abundance of small record pressing plants and a healthy dose of the American Dream, the private press vinyl industry in the USA has been celebrated this year in an astonishing encyclopaedia chronicling the country’s most eccentric dreamers, oddballs and exhibitionists ever to be committed to wax.

“Enjoy The Experience: Homemade Records 1958 – 1992” is a testament to the insistant lure of celebrity; a cross-section of shots at the big-time which invariably fell short by artists who were often more willing than able. From “pizza parlor organists” to “cult leaders who never found the right cult”, the collection of homemade records has gone on show at New York’s Milk Gallery.

Described as “a jaw-dropping look at the All Time Hit Parade of Rejection”, the sleeves reflect the wacky nature of the music and exists as testaments to human endeavour – ambitious, flawed and hilariously funny.

The exhibition will run from 9th July – 23th July with events also planned at LA’s Amoeba Records. Click here for more info.

If you’re in New York, why not also check out the public archiving of Afrika Bambaataa’s record collection. The Enjoy The Experience compilation also featured in our run down of June’s best vinyl releases.

See a selection of our favourites below: