For music fans whose album collection can be found meticulously alphabetized in milk crates, carefully stowed in their car's center console, or maybe just piled up next to the stereo from incessant listening - rather than digitally stored on their hard drive - one of the most important days of the year is fast approaching: Record Store Day. Founded in 2007, it is an annual tribute to indie record stores in the U.S. and elsewhere, paying homage to those establishments fighting to maintain the culture surrounding local music outlets. Always occurring on the third Saturday of April, Record Store Day 2013 falls on Saturday, April 20 this year, and is a day you can expect special performances and releases from artists in honor of the holiday. Unsurprisingly, Tacoma record stores have become active participants in the festivities. On 4-20 you'll easily find me stopping by the following South Sound vinyl and CD destinations, fueling my addiction.

Hi-Voltage Records

2612 6th Ave., Tacoma

Hi-Voltage is truly one-stop shopping in terms of acquiring all the titles you're looking for. Along with their vast selection of classics, Hi-Voltage is also at the forefront of new releases as well as local releases. Looking for a copy of The Strokes' fifth studio album Comedown Machine on vinyl? Or maybe the 7-inch of Red Hex's new EP, Shoulda Known? Hi-Voltage can hook you up with either of those - or both, in my case. In celebration of Record Store Day, all new and used vinyl and CDs will be marked down 20 percent on 4-20.

Rainy Day Records

301 Fifth Ave. SE, Olympia

Boasting the title of longest-running record store in Weekly Volcano distribution area, Rainy Day Records has been providing a huge selection of both new and used vinyl and CDs since 1973. Whether you're searching for a sought-after classic, or the latest music that's being pressed onto vinyl, it will likely be at Rainy Day Records.

Rocket Records

3843 Sixth Ave, Tacoma

Rocket Records most notably satisfies all desires of a local music aficionado. Along with a large selection of vinyl, CDs, posters and other music merchandise, Rocket Records also regularly hosts free performances from favorite local bands. Record Store Day 2013 will bring three local bands to the shop that Saturday, with the performance beginning at 3 p.m. Check this spot out before it moves five doors down the block.

House of Records

608 N. Prospect, Tacoma

There's something very simple yet very distinct about Tacoma's House of Records: It is the only record store in Tacoma that carries strictly vinyl. Their dedication to the medium in unmatched. And doubling as Turntable Treasures - They fitted my record player with a new belt just last week. It is also a great place to find top-of-the-line turntables, amplifiers, and other vinyl necessities.

Though a recently established tradition, Record Store Day is quickly becoming an important date for music. I hope all of you join in the celebration on 4-20, and be sure to go support South Sound record stores. They're an integral part of the all-ages music community, and provide us with a valuable and irreplaceable service.