Today is the 50th anniversary of Inner Sleeve Records, the independent record store in my hometown of Wausau, Wisconsin. Since 1975, owner Mike Capista has been a crucial part of Wausau’s music community, holding fast and staying true through changes both positive and negative, and even catastrophic. I can’t begin to express how pivotal Inner Sleeve Records was to my musical education: not only did being around Inner Sleeve introduce me to so much music that I love, but it helped feed my musical obsessions as they deepened and expanded in my teenage and young-adult years. Even beyond that, hanging around the store and talking with Mike, his employees, and the other customers was one of those pivotal life chapters that the young folks might call a “core memory.” There’s a lot more to say about Inner Sleeve - and maybe someday someone will write it - but, for now, here’s a quick set of songs that always bring me back to its wooden crates, neon front-door sign, and poster-filled walls, and especially the generous, friendly atmosphere created by its founder. Here’s to Mike Capista, who remains one of my rock ‘n’ roll heroes. Long may he run, and be sure to stop in at Inner Sleeve next time you’re up that way.

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