Nothing like a song that you a very specific memory of its purchase. It was giddy moment, in that dark and dank record shop in Harvard Square (In Your Ear to be specific – I don't even think it exists anymore, a sad testament to the Square). I was digging through their box of 7" vinyl — the new ones — and there it was, the fresh pressing of the Push Kings Blowin' Up, something I'd been searching for since seeing them at the Middle East in Cambridge. Sure, it was only two songs: "Love Won't Desert Us (Famous)" and "$$$$", but they're both doozies, pure pop confection, especially the former.

I remember getting home and pulling the white vinyl out of its sleeve — and not to sound like a old fogey, but there is nothing like pulling a record out of its sleeve, seeing the grooves, the whole sensation. People have been feeling that way for 50 years now when they pull a record out and play it for the first time, watching the record spin and the needle hitting the surface, it's full of anticipation. I'd like to see CDs illicit that response in 2030. Anyway, hearing the little crackle of the record followed by the infectious guitar line of the song, well, it's burnt into my memory. Sure, speaking of the future, the Push Kings will be mere footnotes of footnotes of footnotes of footnotes to 99% of the listening public, but to me, few other listening experiences can match it — both for the tactile experience and the perfect pop song that the Push Kings crafted (note to Tullycraft: if you're ever looking to cover the Push Kings … )

{iPod Roulette is a daily feature from TIG writer Erik Gonzalez, where he highlights the first track his 11,400 track iPod picks for each day. Think of it as your imaginary daily affirmation. For past rounds of roulette, check the iPod Roulette archives.}