The third Saturday in April has been dubbed “Record Store Day” across the United States. This ongoing tradition is now entering its fourth-year, and is the one day each year that artists and retailers come together to celebrate the unique culture of the record store. It also marks another special day for fans to pick up exclusive titles made available specifically to independent music retail.
For the general public, another iconic day is rapidly approaching: Black Friday. This date is widely considered to be the kickoff of the holiday season, and it will also be a new-found holiday for reggae music lovers and shoppers alike. In conjunction 
with “Record Store Day”, on November 25th, there are several titles being released exclusively to music retail. There is no doubt that two of the artists set to release new titles will peak the interest of music enthusiasts across the globe.
For an attention grabber, the 2010 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Jimmy Cliff, is set to release his first studio album in seven years. Cliff will be expanding on his legendary musical catalog by releasing the “Sacred Fire” EP, through Collective Sounds. The album will feature a combination of Jimmy Cliff originals, as well as a few choice cover songs. The man behind the production of “Sacred Fire” is none other than Los Angeles punk rocker Tim Armstrong of Rancid.
“Sacred Fire” will be released on November 29th. However, for Black Friday, fans will be able to purchase a limited edition colored 12-inch vinyl version of the EP, which will feature an exclusive track entitled “World Upside Down.”
Coinciding with Jimmy Cliff’s release, Matisyahu will be releasing a holiday ditty titled “Miracle”. Matisyahu’s new song was produced by Dr. Luke protégé Kool Kojak (Katy Perry, Ke$ha, FloRida).
Matisyahu himself said, “I wanted to try to get across some of the depth and spirituality inherent in the holiday in a fun, celebratory song.” Although, Adam Sandler might have something to say about this, but “Miracle” has been labeled as “the greatest Chanukah song ever.”
On Black Friday, a limited edition 7-inch vinyl version of “Miracle” will be released through Fallen Sparks/Thirty Tigers Records, and will surely find a place in your holiday album rotation.
The holiday season seems to approach sooner and sooner every year. With this announcement from two highly acclaimed musicians, reggae fans can find joy in purchasing a couple holiday gifts long before the presents are unwrapped in December.
Article By: Kris Siuta