Durium

Durium was a brand name of a cheap, flexible phonograph record popular in the United States and Europe, particularly during the Great Depression.

These records were significantly less expensive than standard shellac records due to their construction. Instead of being made entirely of shellac, Durium records consisted of a thin layer of shellac or similar compound laminated onto a paper or cardboard base. This paper base gave the record its characteristic flexibility and reduced the amount of costly shellac needed, thus lowering the production cost.

Durium records were often sold through unconventional channels, such as newsstands and department stores, further contributing to their accessibility and affordability. While they provided a cost-effective way for people to enjoy music, the sound quality of Durium records was generally inferior to that of shellac records, and they were prone to wear and damage due to their delicate construction. The brand became less prevalent after World War II, as economic conditions improved and the demand for cheaper records diminished.