Grand Junction, CO | Physical media sees resurgence on the Western Slope: Local media stores are witnessing renewed interest in physical formats as streaming and digital consumption continue to dominate entertainment. Matthew Cesario with Triple Play Records said he has seen a notable spike over the last year. “CD sales in general have grown. Also, cassette sales have grown. They’re making cassettes again, so you can get certain things on cassette,” Cesario said. While he reports an increase in CD and cassette sales, Vinyl still reigns supreme within the physical music realm. “Vinyl’s grown for a solid 10 years,” he said. “Vinyl used to be really hard to get. Certain records you couldn’t find. It’s the opposite now. You can get about anything on vinyl and it’s really hard to get CDs. They’re not making enough for the demand.”
Hyattsville, MD | A New Addition to Hyattsville Vinyl Culture: Fireplace Records. Hyattsville has a new spot for music lovers seeking community and tunes—Fireplace Records. Founded by four DJs and lifelong vinyl collectors, the new store, located at 4344 Farragut Street, opened in November 2025 and sells records and more. The owners say their shared passion for music transformed into a storefront where seasoned collectors and newcomers can explore a rich world of media. The owners—Anthony Mims, Black Wilson, DJ 2-Tone Jones and DJ Iran—old vinyl for more than 10 years at farmers markets, and since 2021 at the monthly Crate Convention in the District’s Anacostia Arts Center. Their combined expertise and love for vinyl led them to pool resources and open Fireplace Records. “…We just concerted our efforts together and got it done,” Wilson said.
Portland, ME | Vinyl, books, and VCRs: Mainers look to disconnect from modern tech: Local record and bookstore owners say more customers are turning to physical media to escape the digital “overload” they see on their screens every day. It’s a trend happening across the country—and it’s showing up in Maine too. Vinyl album sales in the U.S. rose for the 18th straight year in 2024, according to the Recording Industry Association of America. And it’s not just records. Several local stores say they’re seeing more people looking to disconnect from digital life by turning to older, more traditional formats—like books, DVDs, and even VCRs. At Electric Buddhas in Portland, store owner Mike Breton says the shift is clear. …Breton says many of his customers are looking for something they can hold—something real.
Boonton, NJ | “Welcome to Hidden Tracks Records.” Boonton, NJ’s Main Street has become a vibrant, revitalized historic downtown. Somewhere between the coffee houses, art studios and cozy cafes, you’ll find Hidden Tracks Records, a welcoming spot for music discovery and community. Owners Shane and Michele Murphy have been able to manifest their passion for music and create a place where the love of vinyl and live music converge. Once inside, you notice the care and well curated selection of new and used records. The atmosphere has a cafe-like charm with a front lounge area nestled by a full stage for live events. Most notably, Ken Stringfellow (The Posies) recently graced the stage. New Jersey Stage had an opportunity to catch up with Shane and hear more about Hidden Tracks Records and their expansion into a record label.
Amsterdam, DK | Amsterdam Vinyl Record Shops—A Definitive Crate Digger’s Trail: Outside of the UK, where are the best cities in Europe to go vinyl record hunting? Martin Gray takes time out to conduct a comprehensive store-by-store itinerary/tour of the plethora of record shops in his beloved city of Amsterdam, to reassert his belief that the cultural capital of the Netherlands is also an undisputed mecca for vinyl junkies. Mention Amsterdam to many and most people would think: sin city, hedonism central, weed capital of the world (sex and drugs and coffee shops, is that all your body needs?) and, of course, plenty of red lights. Oh, and conveniently overlook the fact that it has more museums per square mile than any other city in Europe, and when it comes to 
US | The best record stores thriving in major US cities: …Criminal Records (Atlanta, GA): Criminal Records in Atlanta is more than a record store; it’s a cultural staple. Known for its colorful decor and extensive vinyl collection, it attracts a diverse crowd of music lovers and comic enthusiasts. The store’s unique blend of music and pop culture creates an engaging atmosphere. Shoppers can browse through records, comics, and collectibles, enjoying the eclectic mix. The staff’s passion for music is evident, offering personalized recommendations for curious shoppers. Criminal Records is 
Hamilton, BM | The Music Box takes a bow after decades of service: Two sisters who spent their working lives at a Hamilton music store will close the iconic business by the end of the month. The Music Box announced it would shut its doors after about 70 years in business. Helena Escolastica, who ran the store for 13 years with her sister, Geneveve, said the closure had been a long time coming, with music streaming playing a role. She added: “I’ve had a lot of people come in here almost crying, saying that they grew up knowing this place. “So did I—I started here when I was 15 and I’m now 65. I’ve been here pretty much my entire life. “I’ve seen people who used to come here when they were children — now they’re married and they’ve had their own kids. “A lot of people have told us that 
AU | Record Store Day Returns in 2026 as Vinyl Culture Continues Its Comeback: Record Store Day is officially spinning back around in 2026, once again shining a spotlight on Australia’s independent record stores and the communities that keep… Record Store Day is officially spinning back around in 2026, once again shining a spotlight on Australia’s independent record stores and the communities that keep physical music culture alive. Returning on Saturday, April 18th 2026, Record Store Day will champion the store owners and staff, artists, labels, and music lovers alike. Since its beginnings in 2008, it has grown into a global celebration of independent music retail. The day continues to support music communities, labels, emerging and established artists, while supporting our local indie record stores, highlighting their unique role as 
San Fernando, CA | The Midnight Hour is Much More Than a Record Store: Despite its popularity, this year will be its last in the City of San Fernando. On a crisp December evening, like moths to a flame, punks, goths and “outcasts” of all ages float toward the glowing sign of The Midnight Hour Records in the City of San Fernando. Located on the corner of San Fernando Road and Maclay Avenue, the shop is one of the only places open at night on the mall, well after the quinceñera and bridal shops close their doors for the day. It makes its presence known in the “quaint” valley town, lining its windows with Pride, Transgender, Palestine, United Farmworkers and anti-ICE flags—a bold statement of 
Doral, FL | New Record Store Opens in Doral With Diverse Vinyl Selection: Crazy Vinyl Record offers new and used vinyl with a focus on soul, funk, jazz, Latin, and more. High-Fidelity lovers in the west side of town now have a new local haven to fulfill their sonic fantasies. After years of pop-ups, crate-digging events, and online sales, Crazy Vinyl Record has opened its first brick-and-mortar location, and it’s planted its flag in Doral. Founded by Marcos Mirabal, Crazy Vinyl Record joins the ranks of Miami vinyl staples like Sweat Records, Technique Records, and Lucky Records. But rather than setting up in the usual neighborhoods, Crazy Vinyl is carving out new ground in a less-traveled part of town. The store marks a new chapter for a business that grew organically out of Miami’s vinyl-loving community. “Music is a fascinating journey. 
Cardiff, UK | The unlikely love story that ended with a couple owning a Welsh record store: In the summer of 2025 two of Cardiff’s long-standing music shops faced closure after their owners chose to retire after decades. While D’Vinyl in Mackintosh Place closed its doors after 30 year The Record Shop, also in Roath in nearby Inverness Place, was bought by a new owner. Canadian-born Jason Garrow’s life led him to Cardiff where he took over the record store after meeting and falling in love with a Welsh woman. The 51-year-old met his now-wife, Jayne, 50 while they were both attending a festival in Las Vegas in 2014. …Jason said he has had a “warm welcome” since opening with the shop often busy with customers. …As well as looking through the thousands of vintage records you can also meet the couple’s 14-year-old dog Bella who 
Somerville, MA | With Gen Z Using Vinyl As Décor, Somerville Record Shop Owner Weighs In: According to a survey by Vinyl Alliance, 37% of Gen Z vinyl buyers are using their records as a form of home decor. Wayne Rogers, owner of Stereo Jacks in Somerville, is skeptical that they’re not getting play-time. “I would put more stock in if I knew people who did that or knew customers who did that,” Rogers said. “I don’t know anyone who does that.” Other local record store owners told WBZ NewsRadio that they had, in-fact, seen younger customers use records just as decoration, but that in large part, the vinyl was also being played. Rogers said young people’s desire for vinyl has always been there, but that music companies have begun to put out physical records of modern artists like Taylor Swift and Sabrina Carpenter, and 
