DROP THE NEEDLE WITH GUEST DJ GRANDBAG PLAYING “MONSTER” BY R.E.M. (FREE EVENT)

Jason Burchaski is the founder of the Northeast Ohio Vinyl Club and the selector behind DJ Grandbag, dedicated to keeping the analog heartbeat of physical media alive. Through his TikTok channel @lifehassurfacenoise, he connects with a massive community of music lovers by spinning forgotten classics and sharing the unfiltered, authentic stories behind the records that shaped a generation.
​Released in 1994, Monster was a sharp, intentional left turn. It was the record where the band traded their signature acoustic mandolins and jangle-pop for a wall of thick, fuzzy distortion, tremolo pedals, and a glam-rock attitude. It’s loud, it’s strange, and it completely redefined what a stadium rock band could sound like.
“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.