Biffy Clyro is the biggest band you’ve never heard of—if you live in the US, that is. In the UK and continental Europe, the Glaswegian power trio top charts and fill arenas. They win “Best New Band” awards from NME, “Best Music Video,” and “Best Live Band” honors, too.
But these accomplishments are just the start for brothers James and Ben Johnston (bass/ vocals and drums/ vocals, respectively) and frontman/ guitarist Simon Neil. Their brand-new album, Opposites, debuted at #1 on the UK charts, which is a first for the band.
Now, Biffy Clyro are set to introduce themselves to the good ol’ USofA by putting a copy of the brand new 180gram LP Opposites in the mail to one of you.
And if you think you may be shut out because you don’t happen to own a turntable, they’ve taken care of that too by adding a Crosley Cruiser portable turntable, the model displayed below, to our very special giveaway
That’s right, one winner will receive a copy of Biffy’s new LP Opposites and the Crosley turntable in the mail to him or her.
We chatted with Biffy bassist James Johnston last March on the eve of Opposite’s release:
Your new album, Opposites, is three years removed from your previous album, Only Revolutions. How has the band changed in that time, and how has the last three years informed the creation of this epic double album?
Hopefully the band keeps moving forward, and gets better at every aspect of what we do… we’ve been through lots of ups and downs, as most bands will go through at some point… And all of those challenges have totally informed the making of this record. Simon always writes from a personal point of view, so the things that go on in our lives are intrinsically linked to our music.
Why was it important to you guys to release Opposites on vinyl?
We grew up buying records and CDs, and we still believe in the physical format. We’d never want to deny anyone the opportunity to experience our records in the same way that we were able to experience our favourite records. We feel that the artwork is still a huge part of a record, and there’s no better way to display that than on vinyl!
Do you personally collect vinyl? Do you have any favorite record stores?
Yes, I do! Record stores are becoming fewer and further between, so finding a good one is an increasing challenge. We love it when we come to the US and get the chance to go to Amoeba Records… it’s the kind of place where you can lose track of time, and come out with all kinds of incredible vinyl.
Now, about that turntable:
The Crosley Cruiser portable turntable is a 3-speed turntable made from hardwood and bound in vinyl. The briefcase-style record player is lightweight and easily transported from place to place. It features built-in stereo speakers so you can listen to your records without having to connect it to a speaker system.
The spin: Plays 3 speeds: 33 1/3, 45, and 78 RPM; Belt-driven turntable mechanism; Built-in dynamic full-range stereo speakers; Manual return tone arm; Made from hardwood, with a vinyl cover; RCA audio output and headphone jack; AC power adapter. Measures 14 x 11 x 5″h., weighs 6 lbs. 120V.
Enter to win BOTH Biffy Clyro’s 2 LP opus, Opposites and the Crosley Cruiser portable turntable by telling us in the comments below what Biffy track you’re most excited to hear from Opposites on your new listening device. We’ll select one enthusiastic winner with a North American mailing address a week from today, May 15, 2013.
