Definition

Noun: 1. A physical collection of recorded music: A set of one or more audio recordings (such as songs) issued together as a single commercial product, originally on phonograph records and later on formats like cassette tapes or compact discs (CDs). The term often implies the complete packaged product, including its cover art and liner notes. 2. The physical object itself: The medium (e.g., a vinyl disc, cassette, or CD) or the packaged set containing the audio recordings.

Usage and Examples

• Referring to a music collection:

  • The band released their debut record album to critical acclaim.
  • She has an impressive collection of classic jazz record albums.

• Referring to the physical object:

  • He carefully placed the record album on the turntable.
  • The record album came with a beautiful poster inside the sleeve.

Advanced Usage

• "Concept album": An album where all the songs contribute to a single overarching theme or story.
  • "The Wall" by Pink Floyd is a famous concept album.
• "Album-oriented rock (AOR)": A radio format that focuses on playing tracks from full record albums, rather than just singles.

Variants and Related Words

• Album (n): A common shortened form of "record album." Can also refer to a book for collecting photographs or stamps.
  • I bought the new Taylor Swift album.
• LP (Long Play) (n): Specifically refers to a 12-inch vinyl record album designed to be played at 33⅓ revolutions per minute.
• Studio album (n): An album consisting primarily of new, original recordings made in a studio, as opposed to a live or compilation album.

Synonyms

• LP: (Specifically for vinyl records)
• Disc: (Informal, can refer to CDs or vinyl records)
• Release: (Emphasizes the act of issuing the music commercially)

Related Phrases

• To release an album: To issue and make a record album available for sale.
  • The artist will release an album next spring.
• Album cover: The outer packaging or artwork of a record album.
  • The album cover for "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band" is iconic.

Noun

1. an album for holding phonograph records
2. one or more recordings issued together; originally released on 12-inch phonograph records (usually with attractive record covers) and later on cassette audiotape and compact disc