This is a free event; all are welcome
Founded by Jim Ellis, CLE Records is a fanzine resurrected as a record label and dedicated to the diverse Indie scene in Northeast, Ohio.
https://clerecords.bandcamp.com/
Tracing his roots to the punk era of the 1970s, Jim Ellis, CLE Records’ founder, has always had a passion for the cutting edge. He played bass for the proto-punk band X_X while publishing a cult-classic, independent fanzine named CLE.
After stepping away from the music scene for a while, Jim has returned with the opening of CLE Records in early 2026. This groundbreaking label is set to bring attention to the great vibes shaking The Land. “Quality is really important to me,” said Jim, in talking about the new productions. “There’s great music happening somewhere in Cleveland every night of the week. Live performances are where it’s at. And we work with the best to make sure the recordings capture exactly what they should.”
“Drop the Needle,” a unique community listening experience that celebrates the art and history of vinyl records. Each session features a guest expert who delves into the story behind a chosen artist and their iconic album. The expert will guide us through the artist’s career, creative process, production techniques, and the cultural context surrounding the recording of the featured album. After the discussion, we “drop the needle” and listen together to Side A and Side B of the album in its entirety, savoring each track as it was meant to be heard. This shared listening session fosters a deeper appreciation of the music and invites participants to experience the album as a cohesive work of art. Following the listening session, we open the floor for a community discussion. Attendees are encouraged to share their reactions, insights, and questions, making this an interactive and enriching event for music lovers of all backgrounds. Whether you’re a long-time vinyl enthusiast or new to the format, “Drop the Needle” offers a welcoming space to explore, listen, and connect through the power of music.