Feature: The Cutout Bin

Remember record stores? Each shop invariably had a "cutout bin," or a sale rack containing overstock LPs and cassettes. Manufacturers would punch a hole or cut a notch into the record cover or plastic cassette case, then send these leftovers to stores to resell at a deeply discounted price. Delving through these bins would uncover some obscure artists, or an album that failed to sell very well. Often the customer would be rewarded with a hidden gem.

Re-live those days through The Cutout Bin a column that digs through the music racks for lost treasures.

Columnists

Kit O'Toole

Articles in this feature

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• "In My Room": A Creative Game-Changer for the Beach Boys

  The under-appreciated song showcases the Beach Boys' burgeoning creativity and musical sophistication.

  Opinion by Kit O'Toole — on Feb 18, 2011

• Two Turntables and a Microphone: A Mixtape of Classic Rap

  Not a rap fan? Try these standout tracks and become a hip hop convert.

  Opinion by Kit O'Toole — on Feb 06, 2011

• Remembering Singer/Songwriter Gerry Rafferty, A '70s Pop/Rock Craftsman

  While not necessarily a household name, Gerry Rafferty's songs remain contemporary rock classics.

  Opinion by Kit O'Toole — on Jan 08, 2011

• Same "Auld Lang Syne"? Try These Overlooked New Year's Eve Songs

  Do New Year's Eve "carols" exist? Yes, if you dig deep into the music vaults.

  Opinion by Kit O'Toole — on Dec 20, 2010

• The Who's Cautionary Tale "Eminence Front" Still Resonates

  While not technically a hit, "Eminence Front" still amazes with its irresistible combination of rock and funk.

  Opinion by Kit O'Toole — on Dec 05, 2010

• Enjoy the Ride with the Ides of March's Classic Single "Vehicle"

  You've heard the 1970 song "Vehicle." Now learn the backstory of the Chicago-based group The Ides of March.

  Opinion by Kit O'Toole — on Nov 22, 2010

• Siedah Garrett: A Singing and Songwriting Force in Pop and Soul Music

  She has performed on two number one singles and written countless hits. So why isn't Siedah Garrett better known?

  Opinion by Kit O'Toole — on Nov 08, 2010

• Hail Hail Rock and Roll: Listening to Rock Pioneer Chuck Berry

  In celebration of Chuck Berry's 84th birthday, take a closer listen to some of his groundbreaking recordings.

  Opinion by Kit O'Toole — on Oct 25, 2010

• Remembering John Lennon's Lesser-Known Songs

  Pay tribute to the rock legend on his 70th birthday by digging deep into his impressive catalog.

  Opinion by Kit O'Toole — on Oct 09, 2010

• Squeeze's "Hourglass": An Underrated '80s Classic

  Squeeze's biggest U.S. hit, "Hourglass," turned one listener into a major fan.

  Opinion by Kit O'Toole — on Sep 26, 2010

• The Gipsy Kings' "Bamboleo" Makes A Comeback

  Through its use in a fall TV promo, the group's 1988 single "Bamboleo" still amazes with its exotic rhythms.

  Opinion by Kit O'Toole — on Sep 12, 2010

• Bassist Robert Wilson of the Gap Band: An Appreciation

  Bassist Robert Wilson was an essential contributor to the Gap Band's distinctive brand of funk.

  Opinion by Kit O'Toole — on Aug 29, 2010

• Stumbling Onto A Buried Gem: Kenia's Distant Horizon

  Sometimes mistaken identity can lead to discovering a wonderful artist.

  Opinion by Kit O'Toole — on Aug 13, 2010

• Reevaluating Nineties Music: Trivial or Noteworthy, Part 2

  The Cutout Bin continues looking back at some of the most influential and unique talents from the 1990s.

  Opinion by Kit O'Toole — on Aug 01, 2010

• Reevaluating Nineties Music: Trivial or Noteworthy?

  '90s charts may be filled with one-hit-wonders, but influential artists also emerged out of the decade.

  Opinion by Kit O'Toole — on Jul 11, 2010

• The Stylistics' "People Make the World Go Round" : Philadelphia Soul at Its Best

  The haunting arrangement and perfect vocals make this track a Philly Soul standout.

  Opinion by Kit O'Toole — on Jun 25, 2010

• Remember the Early Days of Music Video and New Wave with MV3

  Before cable was widely available, music fans had to find music videos where they could.

  Opinion by Kit O'Toole — on Jun 11, 2010

• Travel Through Prince's Catalog to Find Some Buried Treasures

  While "Purple Rain" remains a classic, Prince recorded many other lesser-known singles and B-sides that deserve another listen.

  Opinion by Kit O'Toole — on May 29, 2010

• Want to hear Paul McCartney's Most Adventurous Album? Just Press to Play

  Paul McCartney experimented with his sound on his 1986 album, but still proved to be a master songwriting craftsman.

  Opinion by Kit O'Toole — on Apr 23, 2010

• Malcolm McLaren: Hip Hop Pioneer

  Malcolm McLaren may be the godfather of punk, but he also introduced hip hop to the UK.

  Opinion by Kit O'Toole — on Apr 10, 2010