In 2017, legendary Boston street-punk pioneer Mark Lind started the Get-Punk Record Club, a vinyl record subscription service coinciding with his already established online record store Get-Punk.com. The goal of the club was to get the hidden gems of the independent music community to the masses. Each month, Mark carefully handpicked and curated albums he felt would provide subscribers a
pleasurable listening experience, and hopefully turn them onto new artists and sounds.
Trev Allen, host of The Struggling Artist Podcast, embarked on his journey into collecting vinyl records as one of the original members of the Get-Punk Record Club. As an early subscriber, Trev was instantly hooked by the music he was receiving. Not only was he hearing new bands for the first time – bands
that he would grow to love – but he was also supporting a small business by beginning his collection
with great music.
When The Struggling Artist Podcast relaunched in 2020 with more of a focus on music, Trev began reaching out to many of the bands whose records he received through the record club to be guests on the show. So, it is no stretch to say that without Mark Lind’s idea of getting amazing independent music
out to the masses, it is quite possible that The Struggling Artist Podcast would not exist. Over the years, Mark and Trev developed friendship and business relationship that has involved sponsorships, podcast production, and more.
That brings us to today.
Recently, Mark has felt that the record club needs some new blood behind the proverbial steering wheel to drive it in the direction he has always envisioned but no longer has the time to give his full attention. Knowing Trev’s love for music and vinyl records – and it didn’t hurt that he was an OG member of the Get-Punk Record Club – Mark knew Trev would be the perfect successor to take the reins. After many discussions and lots of questions, Trev accepted this mission with full confidence, understanding, and
motivation to keeping the record club alive and well.
What's the deal with this service?
Each month, members get at least one LP record. With the price inflation on vinyl since 2020, it is difficult to send out more than one record for the price of the subscription, but that’s not to say members may not get an extra EP or 7-inch, should the price and availability line up. Members will never receive an EP or 7-inch in lieu of a full-length record.
Will I know what I am getting?
Nope. That’s how it goes. One of the best parts of being a member of the record club is the mystery and surprise at what you get. If you’re new to record club subscriptions, you’ll find there is no better feeling than putting on an album that you know nothing about, and it bangs.
What if I think the first one sucks?
Trev is the curation part of this straight out of Mark’s book. A lot of sounds fall under the punk rock umbrella. The sequencing of selections for each month is like the sequencing of a set-list or an album; it has ups and downs in energy and tempo. Trev will do his best to hit every aspect of the “genre.”
Why haven’t I heard of a lot of these bands?
The point to the record club is that members aren’t going to get national act’s mainstream albums. Members will be introduced and exposed to the best music local and/or independent communities have to offer. This record subscription service is for the new collector just as much as it is for the seasoned collector.
When do you ship?
Vinyl usually ships on or before the 15th of each month. Sometimes there are hang ups in delivery and supplies. Members will be notified if there are any delays.
What if I don't live in the United States?
If you don't live in the US, send Trev a message on the contact us page and he will provide information on shipping rates. Unfortunately, the cost of shipping outside of the US will be higher and not worth joining.
What kinds of membership options are there?
Members can sign up for single or multiple month options, as well as for the year. Members will receive a renewal reminder as their subscription expiration date approaches.
Why should anyone trust you?
Mark Lind trusts Trev, so you should, too. But seriously, Trev is a music lover, and his podcast is built around the music and bands he loves. Check out any episode streaming everywhere if you need credentials.
What if I want to cancel?
Members can cancel at any time; however, the subscription will end at the time of renewal.
What if you send me something I already have?
Trev is committed to providing fresh, new music from artists who aren’t receiving mainstream attention. He will not be sending out any albums that have previously been shipped through the Get-Punk Record Club. Members who receive a vinyl they already own are encouraged to spread the music and gift the album to a friend. Should this happen more than once during the subscription period, members should reach out to Trev via the contact us page.
Why is the name changing from Get-Punk Record Club to The Struggling Artist Record Club?
It’s simple. Get-punk is Mark Lind’s brand and business, and The Struggling Artist is Trev’s. Other than the name change, Trev intends to continue to run the record club as Mark has, including the letter
that accompanies each month’s selection.
Closing statement from Trev:
My goal is to continue to provide the subscription service with the same heart and soul that current members of the record club are accustomed to. If you know me personally, have listened to The Struggling Artist Podcast, or just found the subscription service through the Googles, you can see I am a music lover trying to keep a good thing going. As corny as it may sound, Mark built a community through the Get-Punk Record Club, and it deserves to stay alive and well. This is all for the love of music. I am happy and excited to continue this journey with you.