Category Archives: A morning mix of news for the vinyl inclined

In rotation: 3/31/23

Niagara Falls, NY | Local record store pairs with Underground Railroad Center to educate all during Women’s History Month: There are so many iconic women in Western New York. Women that broke barriers beyond the Buffalo-Niagara Falls area. People like Minnie Gillette, Mary Talbot, Louise Bethune, and so many more. But some historic women of this area could be unfamiliar to some people. That’s why Daredevil Records is teaming up with the Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center to host its first ever Women’s History Month Scavenger Hunt. The tasks are fun and something to do with your friends, while also an incredibly educational experience. There are 11 clues for the scavenger hunt. It starts out at the record store, but leads you around Niagara Falls, showing off different landmarks, and teaching everyone about the rich history women have in Western New York. “It’s a very deep history here, and it’s important to learn about all the brave women here that have done incredible things,” Daredevil Records employee, Edyta Chorostkowska said.

Cincinnati, OH | Best selection of experimental music at a record store: Torn Light Records is quickly rivaling Shake It and Everybody’s as one of the best record stores in Cincinnati. Located on Ludlow Avenue, Torn Light has a terrific selection of new and used records, plus a constantly replenished stock of new acquisitions in front of the counter that’s always worth flipping through. Not many record stores give you a sense of the staff and owner’s personal tastes like Torn Light does. They have a thoughtfully curated section of experimental and noise music, modernist composers like John Cage and Karlheinz Stockhausen, as well as a nice little nook of books tucked in the back, with an eye towards, again, the experimental. Think Georges Bataille, Leonora Carrington, Nicholson Baker and more. And if you aren’t sure what to look for, the staff is always playing an interesting record you’ve likely never heard before, and that just might steer you in the right direction.

Lubbock, TX | Records outsell CDs for first time since 1987, Lubbock store contributes to growth: For almost two decades now music fanatics have been traveling back in time through vinyl records. This form of music has seen a record-breaking growth. According to the Recording Industry Association of America’s, Vinyl records outsell CDs for the first time since 1987. “Records have been on their way back for about 15 to 17 years now. It’s been a slow climb and actually very rapid climb in the last 10 years, so for it to totally take over CD’s, it’s not surprising at all,” said Doug Stapp, owner of Ralph’s Records. Just last year, vinyl’s have sold 41 million albums compared to 33 million CDs. “It’s bigger, you can actually listen to it. You don’t have to lease it on your phone. You actually own something, you can stare at all of the artwork, you get to read all the liner notes, all the fun stuff that goes along with music which is very important to music,” said Stapp. The growth is something that Ralph’s Record is no stranger to, operating for over 43 years with the largest sales coming from young adults.

Boston, MA | New store brings vinyl records to Beacon Hill: There’s a new music store on Beacon Hill selling some very old, and very cool, records. What’s happening: After six years in Providence, Music Research Library reopened at 24 Joy St. on Beacon Hill March 1. Co-owner Vasyl Kochura tells Axios a lot of the Rhode Island shop’s clientele were coming down from the Boston area so he and business partner Zachary Warf decided to find space downtown. He says the foot traffic on Beacon Hill is already better than expected. What they’re saying: “We love obscure records from around the world and we try to curate music for deep listeners who are interested in exploring different sounds,” Kochura said. The shop has listening stations where customers can preview a record before buying it, a feature that’s not always available in modern record shops. Beyond albums, soundtracks and singles, the shop specializes in “library music” — recordings of generic stock music used in the production of movies, TV shows or ads. Kochura said MRL pays top dollar for records, especially collections.

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In rotation: 3/30/23

Chicago, IL | Theaster Gates’ Rebuild Foundation To Open Miyagi Records Store In Chicago’s South Side: Incubated under Rebuild Foundation’s Creative Entrepreneurship Program, Miyagi Records will join the constellation of artistic amenities transforming the ‘Arts Block’ Rebuild Foundation–the platform for art, cultural development, and neighborhood transformation founded by artist and social innovator Theaster Gates–announced that Chicago-based record shop Miyagi Records will open in April on the Arts Block, a vibrant collection of cultural and commercial spaces in Chicago’s Washington Park neighborhood. Miyagi Records, a local record resale concept store, will provide the South Side with a space to purchase vinyl from a selection of curated records through Rebuild Foundation’s Creative Entrepreneurship Program. In partnership with Retreat at Currency Exchange Café, Rebuild’s creative coffeehouse and incubator for emerging culinary artists, Miyagi Records will co-host in-store performances, and community listening activities across the neighboring spaces. Miyagi Records will open its doors on the South Side on April 14, 2023, at 307 E. Garfield Blvd.

Hinckley, UK | Hinckley’s Nervous Records to re-open for a day to sell stock for animal welfare charity: The town said goodbye to owner Gordon Hayes following his death earlier this year. A record shop which has been closed since its owner died is to re-open to stage a sale which will benefit a charity which was dear to him. Nervous Records, in Hinckley, shut up shop in January following the death of Gordon Hayes – who had been a friendly face to generations of music fans from the town and further afield since the late-1970s. Many of his friends and former customers gathered outside the shop, in The Lawns, earlier this month, on the day of his funeral. They swapped stories of a man who dedicated his life to music and whose packed little shop outlived the town’s other record stores. Now, it has been confirmed the shop will re-open for one day only on Saturday, April 22, between 10.30am and 4pm. All sale proceeds will go to Hillside Animal Sanctuary – a charity of which Gordon, who was 70 when he died, was a keen supporter.

Chicago, IL | Roselle Record Store Selling Rare Gems for Sound Lovers at AXPONA in Schaumburg: Record Wonderland, an independent record store in Roselle, hits the road to attend an international audiophile event next month, but the company won’t need to travel too far. The Roselle record store will be selling at AXPONA, a convention for serious sound lovers who want to see the latest high-end audio gear tested live in person. AXPONA takes place at Renaissance Schaumburg Hotel and Convention Center from April 14-16. The event attracts visitors from around the country and the world. Pat Deasey, co-owner of Record Wonderland, said he has thought about taking the short drive to sell records at AXPONA, but the event typically coincides with Record Store Day (RSD), an event that features the sales of limited edition records exclusively at independent records stores. RSD will take place at the store on April 22 this year, a week after AXPONA. RSD, which also features a sale on used records in the store, is always an extremely busy day for Record Wonderland. Many of the exclusive RSD titles are pressed in very small batches. Collectors do not want to miss out.

DeKalb, IL | Perspective: Aisles of vinyl: Walking into my local record store, I’m swept back to the late 60’s and early 70’s by the smell of incense—and the albums, actual vinyl records with artwork on the covers. In the back near the stage that features local musicians hang clothes and accessories similar to those I wore in those distant decades. It’s a trip and I’m happily having a flashback. For over 25 years my friend, Steve, has owned Kiss The Sky record store, now located in Batavia. On my recent visit a range of ages wandered in—anywhere from early teens to folks who may have been even older than me. Steve spent time with one gentleman helping him download a streaming app. No wonder he’s received the award for Batavia’s most welcoming business. I knew that vinyl had made a big comeback but asked Steve to fill me in on the backstory, which he says started around 2006. Then in 2008 the first Record Store Day was held, and vinyl sales have steadily increased ever since. Record Store Day is still going strong and it’s around the corner on Saturday, April 22nd.

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In rotation: 3/29/23

Vancouver, CA | Visiting the record stores of Vancouver: Five spots for your landmark list the next time you’re in Canada. With a huge selection of record stores, spanning an extraordinary range of genres and tastes, Vancouver has plenty to offer both casual vinyl fans and the most dedicated crate-digger alike. VF’s Kelly Doherty recently hit the streets of Vancouver for a taste of nature, and culture and, importantly, to check out the local record stores. Check out five of the best spots that Vancouver has to offer.

St. Petersburg, FL | Vinyl records are back, but some things have changed: “…To succeed here, you have to keep changing with the times,” said Erin Stoy, general manager of Sound Exchange, which has locations in Tampa and Pinellas Park. “Any business, you have to keep adapting.” Sound Exchange was founded in 1987, when the CD was all the rage. “It used to be that everybody bought physical music,” Stoy said, “and so Christmas seasons were crazy at the stores, because everybody had CDs, records and tapes on their list. “But that went away. Music stores are a niche thing. Instead of where there’s at least one in every mall in America.” Used vinyl sales – including, of course, those “digger” boxes of $1 records ubiquitous at every media outlet, thrift store and flea market – are not counted by the RIAA. The report only includes new vinyl. Record companies, always quick to react when there’s a buck to be made, are back in the vinyl business

Hackney, UK | Hackney record store Vinyl Pimp is offering customers the chance to stay overnight: Ever been deep into the dig and not wanted to go home? Well now’s your chance. Hackney Wick record store Vinyl Pimp is offering guests the chance to rent out the shop’s guest suite overnight with access to its full catalogue. Dubbed a “first-of-its-kind experience”, Vinyl Pimp are offering the room free of charge provided guests spend more than £200 in-store on weekdays or £250 on weekends, while a second guest will have to spend an extra £100. Vinyl Pimp announced the overnight experience on Instagram yesterday, explaining that guests will also have access to a large collection of rare vinyl and bargain records. “Immerse yourself in the world of vinyl with a stay at our guestroom, located right in the heart of Hackney Wick,” they said. “The room is decked out with everything you need for a comfortable and unique stay.” According to the store, the room features a listening booth “to ensure that you can fully enjoy your vinyl listening experience,” and a cosy mezzanine bed.

Champaign, IL | Vinyl records spin back into popularity: Despite the current age of streaming, many still choose to listen to physical albums on record players, even though vinyl albums cost more and are more difficult to find. Joseph McLain, junior in LAS, said he began to collect records because of the art on their covers. Eventually, he began listening to the records as well. “I ended up investing in a decent record player, and I kind of realized that the sound quality is nicer than you can get on a CD or streaming services,” McLain said. McLain said he used the same speakers for digital and physical music, which made the differences apparent. “There are just small details that you can notice on the vinyls that I don’t think you can always pick up in a digital recording,” McLain said. McLain said that in streamed music, recordings have lost softer sounds because of how the songs get compressed into digital forms.

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In rotation: 3/28/23

St. Johnsbury, VT | A Creative Economy: Record Shop Means More Positive Spin Downtown: St. Johnsbury is bustling, with another record-breaking year of new businesses opening and exciting events and activities in every season. Much of this bustle seems to be driven by a decidedly creative group of community members. The creative economy–which encompasses economic development activities that include the arts, culture, design, makers, and artisanal products of all kinds–makes up a large proportion of our local economy. …”We offer new and used records of every genre, from punk, hip-hop to jazz, country, rock & roll, and more. We also sell record players, record cleaners, T-shirts, stickers and other fun gifts….Well the beautiful new storefronts on Railroad Street and Eastern Avenue really got me thinking about it, and when I saw the location next to Haven available for lease I just decided to go for it…”

Muncie, IN | Electric Crayon Records opens as a safe space for students and those suffering with addiction in Muncie: Music has been said to bring people of all ages together, and at Electric Crayon Records, it’s no different. The store opened March 11, and within their first week, co-owner Grant Butler said a 14-year-old and a 60-year-old had already come in looking for similar records. Butler, an addictions specialist at IU Health, has been into music since sharing a room with his punk-loving brother as a kid. His brother was a photographer and would take Butler with him to shows. “When you’re a kid, the first medium you’re given is a crayon, pencil and all that stuff, so it’s kind of like that idea to create, there is electricity to it,” Butler said. “It’s kind of like the idea that you’re drawn to create art, whether it’s music or actual, tangible art or literature, any of that kind of stuff. You’re drawn to it.” “…One thing about a record store though…it’s a lot like a DIY pub club where it just kind of breeds community,” he said.

Dover, NJ | Factory Records in Dover offers intimate ‘Up Close and Personal’ series: The Dover vinyl-records store Factory Records is hosting an series of shows titled “Up Close and Personal,” combining performances and conversation by veteran rock and pop performers. Tiffany and bassist Kasim Sulton (who has worked with Todd Rundgren, Meat Loaf and others) have already performed, and upcoming shows will feature: April 7: Singer-songwriter-guitarist Randy Jackson (of Zebra), April 15: Bassist and singer, Joe Bouchard (formerly of Blue Öyster Cult), May 6: Singer and keyboardist Dave Bickler (formerly of Survivor), May 20: Guitarist Vince Martell (Vanilla Fudge) All shows will be hosted by comedian Frankie Hudak, and have a capacity of 45 people.

London, UK | Independent record store chain announces partnership with award-winning brewery: Independent record store chain Rough Trade is joining forces with London based brewery Signature Brew. The two-time Brewery of the Year Award winner is now serving beverages exclusively on draught to Rough Trade customers at the record store’s East London, Bristol, and Nottingham locations. A core range of beers will be available in stores, including Signature’s award-winning flagship collection: Studio Lager, Roadie All-Night IPA and Backstage IPA. Rough Trade stores will also stock a selection of canned specials spanning a range of sours and porters and gluten and alcohol-free craft beers. Founded in 2011, Signature Brew often hosts music events at its brewery/ music venue in Blackhorse Road, London. It has also collaborated with music artists and record labels such as IDLES, Big Joanie and Hot Chip. Sam McGregor, founder of Signature Brew, commented: “Rough Trade has always been an inspiration for Signature Brew, from their DIY roots and community-led approach to music, through to putting on incredible gigs in unusual spaces, and providing unforgettable experiences for fans and bands alike.

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In rotation: 3/27/23

Spokane, WA | New record store Entropy draws on inspiration from modern architecture and the ever-changing nature of music: When he drove drove past the Parkade last December, JJ Wandler wasn’t planning on opening another record store. But the “For Lease” sign had a mind of its own. “I almost caused an accident pulling over to call the number,” he says. The space itself was a mystery to Wandler. He could see the midcentury-style arched windows and could make out faint bits and pieces of a spiral staircase leading up to a second floor inside, but the windows had been covered up for as long as he could remember. Even then, he knew enough to take a leap of faith. The Parkade, the iconic parking garage in downtown Spokane, was designed by one of Wandler’s favorite architects, Warren Heylman. From the Riverfalls Tower Apartments to the public health building on the Spokane County campus, some of his creations rank among the most well-known pieces of architecture in Spokane. Wandler knew that this particular space adjacent to the parking garage used to be Heylman’s office. “If it was good enough for him, it was definitely good enough for me…”

CT | At CT music stores, vinyl records are back in a big way: What is this, 1978? Vinyl is the hottest thing in music, and the young and old alike scouring record store bins across Connecticut can’t get enough of it. There aren’t many places people go to lazily stroll the aisles anymore, to take in the ambiance, strike up conversations with the like-minded, chat with the owner, happily kill the better part of an afternoon shopping for what they’ll realize they wanted when they happen to find it. Most of us want things quickly and we want them dropped at our door. But at Connecticut’s record stores, it’s the experience that brings vinyl enthusiasts as much as the music. Young people are discovering the sound quality and the pleasure of listening to music on vinyl with an enthusiasm that rivals the love their parents and grandparents had for the medium decades ago. And older aficionados are digging their vintage stereo equipment out of the attic, and going in search of the albums they wore out in their high school and college days.

Hattiesburg, MS | T-Bones: Music lovers in Hattiesburg prefer vinyl records over CDs: Music lovers across the country are reminding us what’s old is new again. For the first time since 1987, vinyl records are outselling compact discs, according to the Recording Industry Association of America. The staff at T-Bones Records & Cafe in Hattiesburg aren’t surprised. The music store said record sales have been increasing every year since 2016, while CD sales are down 95% from their peak in 2000. They say music lovers are choosing sound quality over convenience. “Now, the listener wants (to) sort of a captive experience to it, so when they’re listening to it off of the record, they’re enjoying the environment it creates, as opposed to the convenience of what everyone hears through streaming or even through CDs for that matter,” said Mik Davis, record store manager at T-bone’s Records & Cafe. Davis said nearly 44 million records were sold last year. T-Bones will also welcome record buyers for the annual Record Store Day, which will be held on April 22

Glasgow, UK | Assai Records has opened a store in Glasgow: Glasgow is the store’s third Scottish branch. Assai Records has opened a store in Glasgow this week. The Scottish record store, owned by Keith Ingram, opened its first store in Dundee back in 2015 with an Edinburgh location quickly following in 2017. Assai has developed a reputation for its wide range of genres and in-store events such as live performances, signings and artist Q&As. The Glasgow location, based on Sauchiehall Street, is open Monday to Thursday from 10.30am to 5.30pm and Friday and Saturday from 10am to 5.30pm. The store will host a listening party for Melanie Martinez’ new album Portals on March 23.

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In rotation: 3/24/23

Biloxi, MS | Report: Vinyl records outselling CDs for first time in 35 years: “…It’s really astounding to me, the rate of growth we have had in a comparatively short amount of time,” said Marley Roberts, owner of Marley’s Music in downtown Biloxi. “The growth of vinyl record sales is something that has taken several years to get to this point.” The last time vinyl records were this popular was 1987. “If you think back to the late 1980s to the 2000s, vinyl production was at an all time low,” said Roberts. “One of the main reasons I think that things have really exploded in the past few years is that newer artists would have a vinyl version of their current releases. People like Lady Gaga, Post Malone, Taylor Swift – these people that have very successful records would actually release records. So, the whole vinyl market was opened to all these people that weren’t in on it in the first place or maybe had been turned off it by CDs or streaming or anything.”

Pueblo, CO | Could it be the ‘end of an era’? Future of Pueblo’s Independent Records up in the air: Independent Records is up for sale and faces an uncertain future in Pueblo with the store set to either close its doors or be sold to a new owner. If the store is forced to close, it’d mark the end of an iconic record store that has served Pueblo for more than four decades and created countless memories for Pueblo music lovers. The image of hundreds of rock ‘n’ roll fans lining the street outside Independent Records is forever etched in many Puebloans’ minds. As far back as 1980, the record stores were the only places concertgoers could get tickets to many of their favorite artists’ shows, so Pueblo’s Independent Records was often hopping when new concerts were announced. Puebloan Lisa Brown is among those who recall the bustling scene at the record store. She shared that memory with the Chieftain after learning Independent Records might soon close its doors if a buyer cannot be found.

Seattle, WA | Hey Gen X, your Pike/Pine record store is now a Joybird furniture showroom for millennials: Pike/Pine has grown and put away its childish things. The old Everyday Music is now a furniture store. Joybird, a Toledo Pewter, Essence Ash, and Bentley Daisey-colored, online-focused furniture wing of La-Z-Boy, opened up last month in the 10th Ave space the music and record store exited in 2021. CHS reported a year ago on Joybird’s selection of Capitol Hill for its Seattle showroom and its plans for the 6,200-square-foot auto row-era commercial space on a 10th Ave that has continued to grow its retail offerings centered around its Elliott Bay Book Company core. The street has also been powered by new energy. In the summer of 2021, cosmetics and beauty retailer Glossier reignited its revival of global brick and mortar retail ambitions after a pandemic-forced hibernation with a new Capitol Hill store joining new stores in Los Angeles, London, and New York City.

AXS TV’s Vinyl Obsession Follows Members Of Styx, ZZ Top, N Sync And More Browsing Through Record Stores: There’s nothing quite like walking through a record store with money in your pocket and nowhere else to be. I could spend hours just wandering through the aisles, looking at album covers and deciding, re-evaluating, deciding, re-evaluating and deciding again what to buy. It’s a fantastic way to spend an afternoon, and I’m clearly not the only one who feels that way, as that’s the premise behind AXS TV’s new series Vinyl Obsession. Each episode of the debuting series will follow two famous faces from the music world who hit up a record store and pick out their own personal top five vinyl. But as most of us who love this sorta thing know, picking out records to buy is never as simple as walking over to a specific section, finding your album and then leaving. So, the show follows the celebrities as they hunt through the store and records them telling stories and reminiscing about various albums they love and/ or grew up listening to.

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In rotation: 3/23/23

Traverse City, MI | Eugene’s Record Co-op reopening in new location: …”I’m just ready to get back to work,” Chamberlain said from the new store at the corner of Barlow and Carver streets. “Let’s get back to doing what we do and letting people know where we are.” Chamberlain opened Studio Anatomy — an all-ages recording studio and music venue — in the lower level of the Arcade Building. He added Eugene’s Record Co-op in December 2019. While he wasn’t able to bring back the studio at this time, Chamberlain said he’s ready to get the record store rolling in the new location. Even though Eugene’s isn’t downtown any more, the store may benefit from its new location and on-site parking. “We’ll have more extended hours than downtown,” said Chamberlain, who plans to be open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and noon to 4 p.m. on Sunday. “I can open a little earlier not being downtown and stay open a little later during the week.

Jackson, MS | Jackson vinyl record shop promotes local artists through live concerts: For the first time in over three decades, vinyl record sales were higher than CDs, prompting one record store in Jackson to promote local artists’ physical work through live concerts. According to the Record Industry of America, approximately 41 million records were sold, compared to 33 million CDs. Vinyl purchases accounted for 71 percent of physical music sales and reeled in nearly $1.2 billion in revenue. Hayden Boyd, who manages The End of All Music vinyl record shop, believes popular artists heavily endorsing physical copies of their work has boosted the economy for record stores to the point in which it is difficult for stores to maintain a supply of newly-released albums. “People are kind of going back to physical copies of things and records are one that people like to collect, especially with big names like Taylor Swift and all these big pop artists pushing their records really hard. It really helped with the vinyl industry,” Boyd told SuperTalk Mississippi News. “It can also be a problem because we can’t keep up with stock.”

Rockford, IL | Rockford’s ‘Toad Hall’ celebrates 50 years of selling records, comics: Rockford’s “Toad Hall” has supplied the community with records and comic books for five decades. The vintage book, record and comic shop continues to attract locals and visitors from far and wide. Nick Naruz, Toad Hall’s owner, said that selection has been the key to their success. If residents want something, Toad Hall has it, and if residents do not know what they want, they will find somethings to walk out of there with. “You gotta have used record stores, comic book shops, books,” Naruz said. “A place for people to gather, explore and find things the old fashion way.” The location for all of that is 2106 Broadway. Toad Hall moved into the location in 1980, but the business was born in 1973. The shop has continued to be a hot spot in the community for 50 years.

Detroit, MI | An inside look at Detroit’s Third Man Records: Vinyl is back, and it’s getting more popular by the year. So popular that record makers can’t keep up. A new report shows more vinyl records sold last year than CDs for the first time since 1987. Forty-one million vinyl albums were sold last year, bringing in $1.2 billion, more than double what was spent on digital downloads. Eddie Gillis manages the vinyl pressing plant at Third Man Records in Detroit. Since the state-of-the-art facility opened a few years back, business has been booming. “It has definitely taken off. And it’s not just one age bracket, it is all across the board,” Gillis said. From those adding to their original collections from back in the day to those who were barely born when the iPod took over. “There’s a lot of people my age who really like listening on vinyl, even though we didn’t grow up listening to it,” said vinyl collector Kelsey Stratman.

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In rotation: 3/22/23

GA | A new history of Atlanta and Athens record stores meets the subcultural moment: As Atlanta enters another era of demolishing counterculture centers for assimilation into the condo-block Borg, a lack of books and other resources spotlighting their historical significance is part of the reason developers can get away with it. So the timing is perfect for “Atlanta Record Stores: An Oral History,” a new book from longtime music journalist Chad Radford. While Atlanta often operates on the premise that anything not mega-famous must be outdated and worth mercy-killing for profit, Radford’s book is a reminder that – to paraphrase Faulkner – the past isn’t even past. The city’s counterculture is a DIY torch passed to each generation. As Radford notes, there’s a misconception that record stores have died out, based on the digitization of music and a 1990s plunge in vinyl sales that increasingly looks like a bump in a long road. He told me that torch-passing is part of his goal: “Whatever it takes to keep this tradition a thriving vibrant part of Atlanta, I’m totally down.”

Rockford, IL | Rockford record store celebrates 50 years of nostalgia: Retired bus driver Bob Morris, of Rockford, estimates he has shopped at Toad Hall Books and Records three times a week for decades. “Their selection of music is great,” Williams said. “I’ve purchased everything imaginable here over the years. Jazz, Blues, Rock. I’ve also purchased stereo equipment including amps, turntables and speakers.” Toad Hall, 2106 Broadway, has been quenching collectors’ thirst for popular and obscure records, vintage books and magazines and pre-owned comic books for 50 years. The store’s customer base extends well beyond the Rockford region, according to Nick Naruz, whose family purchased Toad Hall in 2005. “We regularly attract people from Iowa, the (Chicago) suburbs, Madison and Milwaukee,” Naruz said. “There are fewer and fewer stores that sell records and die-hard collectors are going to drive an hour or more to get a great selection, a great price and customer service.

Marquette, MI | Record shows and Rubik’s Cubes: Geoff and Jon’s Record Show returns to the Ore Dock Brewing Co. this weekend. Geoff and Jon’s Record Show is back at the Ore Dock Brewing Co. this Thursday-Sunday. Jon Teichman stops by Upper Michigan Today to talk about the growing popularity of the shows in their ten-year run, vinyl record care, and what to expect at the weekend-long sale, plus MK DiVirgilio returns to attempt to solve a Rubik’s Cube in the span of the show. But first, stories of the day. Now, back to records. Teichman has been hosting record sales at the Ore Dock Brewing Co. for the last ten years and says he never runs out of something to talk about or show off. He and his partner actively collect records, so there’s something new at every show. Browse through thousands of vinyl records that span genres and generations during the brewery’s normal hours Thursday, March 23 through Sunday, March 26.

Huntsville, ON | Vinyl record sales continue to rise as listeners look for “elevated product.” Digital streaming is still king for many music listeners, but Trevor Marshall, owner of The Record Shoppe in Huntsville, says there are two ways for music lovers to get music on an “elevated platform.” For the first time since 1987, the Recording Industry Association of America reports that vinyl records outsold CDs in 2022. However, record sales, which accounted for 11 percent of recorded music revenues last year, were still dwarfed by streaming which accounted for 84 percent. The report notes that the revenue from vinyl sales rose about 17 percent to around $1.2 billion in the United States. They note that 41 million vinyl records were sold last year compared to 33 million CDs. Marshall, who has operated his downtown Huntsville store since 2018, says the biggest change he’s noticed over the years is in the demographics. When the shop first opened, he says they have only a couple of high schoolers popping in but now he says that the core audience has grown close to 30.

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In rotation: 3/21/23

Houtzdale, PA | MoValley Records in Houtzdale: A Must Stop for Music Collectors: Hidden away in a shop on Hannah Street in Houtzdale is a time capsule where vinyl records are still king. Walking into MoValley Records is like walking back in time to a record store from the 1970’s or a collectable shop from the 1980’s. Owner Steve Roe is a vinyl record lover who has changed his hobby into a store where other vinyl groupies can gather and swap both stories and records. The renewed interest in vinyl has been growing steadily since 2007, Steve explained on my visit to the store. He doesn’t know what has triggered this trend but suddenly vinyl is “cool” again. The Seattle native and his pastor wife, Christine, moved to Clearfield County in 2017 when she was sent to attend to the flocks at the Faith Lutheran Church in Houtzdale and the First Evangelical Lutheran Church in Philipsburg.

New York, NY | Vinyl revival: A new generation of music lovers are bringing back ‘a relic from the past’ Like many people in his generation, Vijay Damerla finds most of his new music online – but the 20-year-old is slowly becoming a vinyl junkie, amassing records in his room. The student says he doesn’t even own a turntable, saying for him, “it’s the equivalent of, like, getting an artist poster, or like even an album poster on your wall.” “Except, like, there’s actually kind of a little bit of a relic from the past.” For Celine Court, 29, collecting vinyl – she says she owns some 250 records – is about the nostalgic, warm sound that many listeners say digital copies chill. “If you listen to music on vinyl, it’s so different,” she told AFP as she perused the stacks at New York’s Village Revival Records. “It has like this authentic kind of feeling to it.”

Seattle, WA | Love for vinyl comes around — and around — again after sales spike: …“We have so much new stuff. It’s crazy how much new stuff,” said Kay Redden with Sonic Boom Records in Ballard. “We’ve got the new Paramore [record], the new Steve Lacy, Beyonce, of course,” she said, walking among rows of new albums, reissued classics, and vintage original records, all on vinyl. Aficionados will tell you the grooves on a vinyl record allow for a more open, resonant quality versus their digital counterparts. Redden described it as “warmth.” “I think for me, personally, it’s a way to just ‘be’ with music and actually pay attention to what you’re listening to,” she added. After all, a little more effort is required to pick a record, select a side, and carefully drop a needle on what you’d like to play. Customer Devan Schupp agrees. He said that although he can access a lot of music on his phone, he prefers vinyl.

Jack White says Metallica buying a vinyl pressing plant is “outstanding.” “We’re psyched to follow in your footsteps!” the band told Third Man Records owner White. Jack White has responded to Metallica buying their own vinyl pressing plant, calling it an “outstanding” move. This week, the metal icons purchased a majority stake in Furnace Record Pressing in Alexandria, Virginia, one of the largest pressing plants in the United States. White, who owns the Nashville-based Third Man Records and last year, wrote an open letter to major record labels urging them to build their own vinyl pressing plants, has welcomed the news in a message directed to the band. “Welcome to the cause gents!” And thank you for putting your money to amazing creative use!” White wrote on Instagram alongside a photo of Metallica. “Here’s hoping the major labels will also see this as further proof, and finally start investing in themselves,” he added. “Outstanding.”

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In rotation: 3/20/23

Munich, DE | Public Possession Celebrates Ten Years: The much loved label, record shop and lifestyle brand are celebrating ten years in business with the announcement of a party and a series of in stores at the soon to close Munich record shop. Public Possession have announced the plans for their ten year anniversary which will see them host a celebration of everything they do at Haus Der Kunst where they will host a party with live music and DJ’s, workshops for children, launch a new book and much more. The event will take place on Friday the 31st of March later this month and is free to attend. The announcement of their ten year celebrations came soon after the news that they would be closing the longstanding Munich record shop in which the label originated and grew from having become a grassroots hub for the electronic music and arts community in the city.

Poole, UK | Boiler Room Records opens its second store in Poole: An independent record shop selling vinyl and merchandise has welcomed customers after opening a second store. Boiler Room Records officially opened its doors at the Kingland shopping complex in Poole on Monday, March 13, adding to its existing shop in the town’s high street. Launching at Kingland with a well-attended evening event accompanied by live music, Boiler Room Records thanked the Poole community for its support and said the opening of a new store was “an easy decision.” Mark Northey, owner of Boiler Room Records, said: “It is wonderful to finally have the second Boiler Room Records store open on such an engaging high street. “The Poole community has been so supportive of our first storefront, making it an easy decision to expand to have a second offering in the heart of Kingland.

Virginia Beach, VA | Atlantic Avenue corridor preps for Something in the Water’s expanded festival footprint: Just over 40 days until the big weekend at the end of April. Businesses both old and new in Virginia Beach’s Oceanfront district are readying for the expanded foot traffic and expanded footprint of the upcoming Something in the Water music festival. “This [Hampton Roads] is somewhere special where artists come out of, and we need to celebrate that,” Doddie Braza said. Braza is one of the stakeholders behind a newly opened record store Thanks For Listening near the Oceanfront’s King Neptune statue. The store has only been open for about a month and a half and Braza said he’s excited for the bigger festival area that should draw more festival goers into more parts of the Oceanfront district compared to 2019. “There is going to be more activations around Virginia Beach versus that one concentrated area [2019]. That’s going to be a great look for reaching out, locally,” he said.

Brighton, UK | Dub Pistols gets the dance party going in Brighton record store: I know it’s hard to believe it but perennial festival favourites Dub Pistols, have been on the case since 1996 – where’s all that time gone? These party-starters, founded by Barry Ashworth and Jason O’Bryan, are in Brighton on the fourth of five special album plugging bashes, which commenced on the release day (10th March) for their ninth studio album ‘Frontline’ (out via Cyclone Records). The guys were hitting up Rough Trade East with a live band on that day, then on 12th March they were thrilling punters in Kingston. Two days later it was Nottingham’s turn and tomorrow (16th March) they will conclude at Rough Trade in Bristol. All of these gigs were full live band sets, except today’s at Resident in Kensington Gardens in Brighton, which initially I thought was rather annoying!

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In rotation: 3/17/23

Moncton, CA | ‘It sounds heavenly’: Vinyl sales continue to groove: Every Wednesday morning, Karl Barter unloads the latest shipment of records at Frank’s Music in Moncton. Barter and his family have spent a lifetime selling music in all sorts of different formats, but today, records are his top seller. “Vinyl sales have been snowballing for the last 10 years. Just crazy, out of control. CD sales are still pretty good. I thought vinyl may have peaked a few years ago, but it’s still going,” said Barter. According to the Recording Industry Association of America [RIAA], record revenues grew 17 per cent to $1.2 billion in 2022, the 16th straight year of growth. Last year, the classic vinyl album outsold compact discs in units for the first time since 1987. Forty-one million LPs were sold compared to 33 million compact discs. “Vinyl has been something that the music industry were looking for. Something to save the industry all through the years and it was right in front of their eyes the whole time,” said Barter.

Los Angeles, CA | Rockaway Records Acquires World’s Largest Creedence Clearwater Revival Collection: Renowned Los Angeles landmark Rockaway Records recently acquired the world’s largest collection of Creedence Clearwater Revival memorabilia, including thousands of LPs, 45s, original test pressings, posters, autographed items and more. One of the highlights of the newly acquired collection include a 1967 yellow label 45 by Creedence Clearwater Revival, pre-name change as The Golliwogs. This rare 45 is one of only 6 copies known to exist. Additional items include a Fender Stratocaster signed by John Fogerty, RIAA platinum and gold award plaques, over 500 concert posters and hundreds of concert tickets and tour programs.

Traverse City, OR | Eugene’s Record Co-op reopening in new location: A record store will be spinning again come Saturday. It just took nearly seven months to find the flip slide. Forced to flee the only home it has known with the sale of the Arcade Building in downtown Traverse City, Eugene’s Record Co-op is ready to drop the needle Saturday on a new location. Brian Chamberlain will open the new doors March 18 at 1036 Barlow St. The former home of Shoestring Gallery will play host to a DJ spinning tunes and other promotions for the first time since closing its 140 E. Front St. location at the end of August. The opening day event is scheduled from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. “I’m just ready to get back to work,” Chamberlain said from the new store at the corner of Barlow and Carver streets. “Let’s get back to doing what we do and letting people know where we are.” Chamberlain opened Studio Anatomy—an all-ages recording studio and music venue—in the lower level of the Arcade Building. He added Eugene’s Record Co-op in December 2019

Raleigh, NC | Pour House Pressing: Vinyl-Pressing Venture From The Pour House Music Hall & Record Shop: Downtown Raleigh, N.C.’s The Pour House Music Hall & Record Shop has been around for more than a quarter-century, long enough to become one of the local scene’s key live music hubs. The venue expanded into music retail in 2019, opening a record shop on its upstairs level to sell vinyl records (open Tues.-Sun., noon-6pm, plus online). Now The Pour House is undertaking its most ambitious expansion yet: Pour House Pressing, which will be the Raleigh area’s first record-pressing operation with mass-production capabilities. The operation is taking shape in an industrial area on Freedom Dr., off New Bern Ave. east of the I-440 Beltline. If all goes according to plan, Pour House Pressing will be up and running with the capacity to press up to 1,500 records a day by summer of this year. They’re even talking about hosting tour groups to the facility. “There’s a lot of local demand, because the Triangle has always been such a big hub of North Carolina music…”

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In rotation: 3/16/23

Richmond, VA | Vinyl Revival: Richmond record store owners weigh in on vinyl sales surpassing CDs for the first time since 1987: Hey what do you know, according to RIAA, vinyl records have surpassed CD sales for the first time since 1987, with approximately 41 million vinyl albums sold last year compared to 33 million CDs. We figure this happened years ago. While streaming services continue to dominate the music industry, accounting for a vast majority of recorded music revenues, the resurgence of physical music formats, particularly vinyl records, has captured the attention of music enthusiasts and collectors alike. We decided to go to the source and ask local Richmond record store owners a few questions.

Hanover, PA | York County vinyl record store reopens after 24 years of closure: A new vinyl record store, named Squid Wax, officially opened its doors to the public earlier last month. The not-so-new Squid Wax record store, owned and operated by Hanover native Shane Warner, first opened its doors to the rocking world of Hanover back in 1997. The then 24-year-old Warner had previously worked as a manager at a franchised record store named Record Town, which was located at the North Hanover Mall. After managing Record Town, he finally decided to own and operate a shop of his own. Warner’s nickname growing up was “Squid,” and a slang term for vinyl records is “Wax” – hence the store name, Squid Wax. …Now, 24 years later, Warner, whose an insurance agent by day, decided to leap back into the record business by leasing a space on 43 Rear Frederick Street, which was previously leased by his wife for her massage therapy clinic. “In a way this is a redemption,” Warner stated. “I failed once, but life is short, so why not [reopen]?”

Billings, MT | Billings record store sees vinyl sales grow exponentially: At Cameron Records on Central Avenue, you’ll find everything from Pink Floyd to Taylor Swift. The store has seen a record number of sales each year since it opened in 2019. Nationwide, sales of vinyl records recently surpassed CD sales, and that’s no surprise to Cameron Records owner TJ Goodwin. “At any given day, we’ll have between 10 and 15 thousand records in the store,” Goodwin said. Cameron Records is a haven for vinyl record hobbyists, and the old pastime has new life. Goodwin said record sales topped more than 40 million nationwide last year. “This has not just been an uptick over the last couple of years, it’s grown 10%, 14%, 15% over the last few years. It’s been exponential,” said Goodwin.

Philadelphia, PA | Vinyl Record and Retail Store, Latchkey is Hosting an In-Store Throwback Market With 80’s & 90’s Themed Memorabilia: Independently-owned vinyl and retail store Latchkey ( 1502 E Passyunk Ave.) just announced that they will be hosting their first first-ever makers market “Latchkey Presents: A Makers Pop-Up Shop,” on March 25th from 11 am to 4 pm. Guests can expect an extensive showcase of local artisans and vendors setting up shop in-store and as well as some outdoors. Latchkey owner Marc Faletti will also be on-hand with his own one-of-a-kind line of up-cycled and artfully repurposed clothing under his label Lyrical Vintage. This market is the perfect spot for fans of music and vintage to come together to enjoy locally-sourced wares, goods, and more, including VHS, art, textiles, and vintage clothing. Those attending Latchkey’s inaugural A Makers Pop-Up Shop can mingle and purchase items from numerous vendors and artisans, in addition to Latchkey’s collection of expertly-curated records, collectibles, candles, jewelry, games, and other 80’s and 90’s-themed memorabilia.

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In rotation: 3/15/23

Stamford, UK | Rock On Records set for relaunch in All Saints Street, Stamford: A renowned record shop is set to open in Stamford this week. Rock On Records is to welcome its first customers at 4 All Saints’ Street on Thursday (March 16). The first record shop in Stamford for more than a decade, it will open Monday to Saturday from 11am to 6pm, with all profits going to charity. Rock On built up a cult following among music fans and musicians in London from 1971 until its last remaining shop, in Camden, closed in 1996. Its customers included legendary musicians Bob Dylan, The Clash frontman Joe Strummer, Led Zeppelin guitarist Jimmy Page, and BBC Radio’s champion of independent music, John Peel. The new shop will cater for all kinds of music fans from the casual buyer to serious collector. It will specialise in vinyl and rare merchandise, as well as cassettes and a select range of CDs. Ted (80), who once also managed Thin Lizzy, will work in the shop one day a week.

Hove, UK | Hove: Capsule Records new store and coffee shop opens in Western Road: A new record store with a coffee shop inside has opened in a busy city centre street. Capsule Records has opened in Western Road, Hove. The store is run by a “passionate team of music lovers” who are able to help customers and guide them towards new LPs or labels. Sarah Hennessy co-founded the shop with Lawrence Bleach and Simon Skevington. She said: “We are really happy with the beautiful, relaxed space we’ve created here at Capsule. It’s somewhere people can drop by for a coffee, listen to great music, have a meeting, have a browse and hopefully indulge in the sheer joy that is discovering a new LP or label.” …“We have sourced some of the best LPs and compilations we can, from old favourites to undiscovered gems,” said Sarah. “Vinyl is something that transcends age. We welcome people who have been collecting for decades, and young music lovers just starting out on their journey of discovery.

Lincoln, NE | Local record store reflects on vinyl’s growing popularity: Whether it comes from age-old nostalgia or running with new trends, for the first time since the 80s vinyl records have outsold CDs. The data comes from The Recording Industry Association of America which found records had around $8 million more in sales in the past year. Stores like Lincoln Vintage Vinyl have seen similar trends in both purchases and a growing consumer base. Co-owner Craig Bartels said it’s been incredible to watch vinyl records come back into popularity. “It’s amazing, every year we have been in business we’ve increased in both inventory and sales,” he said. Bartels said he’s seen customers of varying ages stop by the store. From teenagers looking for the latest album to members of Generation X that want to hear bands like AC/DC on the turntables they remember. “I’d say about half of the customers that come in here are under 30,” Bartels said. “We get a lot of teenagers in here buying records with their parents.”

Godfrey, IL | RiverBend Records riding vinyl resurgence: For the first time in three decades, vinyl records last year outsold CDs, according to industry reports. RiverBend Records owner Billy Hurst said that’s easy for him to believe. Vinyl is hot, the Godfrey businessowner said, noting records are made using a heat process. Now sales figures make the form of physical media even moreso. “I believe vinyl actually outsold CDs last year,” Hurst said, adding both vinyl and CD sales are up. “It’s all tied to people just wanting a form of physical media — something they can hold, look at and enjoy the artwork, read the credits, et cetera,” he said. “Something that they can keep and possibly even pass on to their kids someday.” About 41 million vinyl albums were sold last year, outpacing the sales of 33 million CDs, according to the Wall Street Journal. Business Insider has stated that vinyl outselling CDs — according to the Recording Industry Association of America’s (RIAA) annual revenue report — occurred for the first time in three decades, highlighting a “remarkable resurgence” of the physical music format.

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In rotation: 3/14/23

Vinyl record sales top CDs for first time in more than 30 years: “Music lovers clearly can’t get enough.” Vinyl records are back and more popular than ever. A new report found that vinyl record sales continued their more than decade-long growth in 2022, and for the first time in more than three decades, outsold CDs in the number of units. The report, published by the Recording Industry Association of America on Thursday, found that physical formats of music saw another year of overall growth in 2022, totaling $1.7 billion. Making up nearly three-quarters of that growth were vinyl records, which saw a 17% increase in revenues for $1.2 billion. This marked the product’s 16th year of consecutive growth, RIAA said. It also marked the first time since 1987 that more vinyl records were sold than CDs, which saw a revenue decline of 18% in 2022. The group said that 41 million vinyl albums were sold last year, compared to 33 million CDs. But physical copies continued to do better than downloads, which once again saw a decline in revenues.

Essex, UK | The Essex record shop that doubles up as a cool cafe: If you can’t find the record you want just ask. Vinyl records have really had a revival in recent years, with many modern albums now getting record releases. Certainly, something you don’t get from only streaming music online is the joy of searching through a record shop for that hidden gem and lucky for us one vinyl store here in Essex is the perfect place to do some vinyl hunting. Hey Joe, in Brentwood, is a bit different from others as it also doubles as a coffee shop as well as selling a huge range of records, all brand new. When I heard about Hey Joe I knew that I had to go along to check it out. I have recently got a record player and have been meaning to go and look for some records, not that I needed an excuse to pop along. Hey Joe can be found in the Baytree Shopping Centre, right at the entrance so it is very easy to find. It had a great vibe to it as soon as I walked in so I was excited to try it out.

Berwick, PA | Record store bounces back with a new location: After losing a thousand record and his old storefront due to water damage, owner Mark Collier has finally reopened WaxPax Records. From Dolly Parton to the Beatles. Hip-hop to country to punk, WaxPax Records sells music across the decades for everyone. Collier is just happy to be back. “With friends that have been with me for years and new friends I just made today, it’s one of the most incredible moments of my life, thank you so much for being here,” said Collier as he addressed his store. Collier first opened WaxPax in September of 2021 down the street. A burst pipe last December forced him to close. Fans of the store were excited to see the new location open. “I’m very happy, I’m very happy,” said Jarid Jopling of Scranton, Lackawanna Co. “I love supporting it. When he told me about the grand opening I absolutely had to be here.”

AU | Ball Park Music, Confidence Man and more feature in Australian Record Store Day 2023 releases: Releases by Peking Duk, Ocean Alley, Polish Club, Underground Lovers, GUM and Ambrose Kenny-Smith – along with a new ‘Bluey’ soundtrack album – are among other local Record Store Day highlights. Releases by Ball Park Music, Confidence Man, Peking Duk, Ocean Alley and Polish Club are among the Australian records that will be available as part of this year’s Record Store Day on April 22. Those include a seven-inch vinyl containing Peking Duk’s two most recent singles: last year’s ‘Spend It’ with Circa Waves and this year’s rework of Savage Garden‘s ‘I Want You’, featuring newly-recorded vocals from Darren Hayes himself. Ball Park Music’s 2011 ‘Happiness and Surrounding Suburbs’ favourite ‘It’s Nice to Be Alive’ will also be available as a seven-inch single. Confidence Man’s ‘Re-Tilt’ remix EP will be available on vinyl, while Ocean Alley’s 2018 album ‘Chiaroscuro’ will be available as a translucent orange double-LP. Polish Club’s ‘Nye_2020_megamix.Exe’ will be available as a transparent pink LP.

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In rotation: 3/13/23

US | Vinyl Hits Major Sales Achievement For First Time In More Than 30 Years: It’s official: vinyl has outsold CDs in the US for the first time since 1987, according to a new report from the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). Music consumers bought more than 41 million vinyl units in 2022 compared to 33 million CDs, which is up 3% from 40 million units in 2021. CD sales were also down a whopping 28% from 47 million. Interestingly enough, pop ruled the vinyl landscape. Taylor Swift led the pack, selling an impressive 945,000 copies of Midnights, followed by Harry Styles’ Harry’s House (480,000), Olivia Rodrigo’s SOUR (263,000), Kendrick Lamar’s good kid, m.A.A.d city (254,000), and Fleetwood Mac’s Rumours (243,000). Though records may be the preferred physical method for fans to listen to music these days, streaming still reigns supreme. As the reports shows, streaming accounted for 84% of the music industry’s $15.9 billion overall revenue.

UK | UK recorded music revenues rise for an eighth successive year in 2022: The BPI, the representative voice for independent labels and major record companies across the UK, today reports that UK recorded music revenue1 rose by 4.7% year-on-year to reach £1.32 billion for the full-year 2022. This figure, which also includes revenues from synchronisation (sync) and public performance2, represents an eighth consecutive year of growth and is up by 36% on the £968.6 million reported in 2017. This is the highest nominal annual amount on record, though, when adjusted for inflation, the figure falls hundreds of millions of pounds below the total reported in 20063 – the first year which includes sync and public performance. Growth in 2022 was again fuelled by climbing streaming revenues, which rose 6.3% year-on-year to £885 million and which now account for 67.2% of industry revenue – up from 66.2% in 2021. The rate of streaming growth and record label investment in A&R and marketing is enabling a great many more artists to succeed through music.

Boston, MA | Record Store Opens on Joy Street: The opening of Music Research Library at 42 Joy St. on March 1 apparently marked the return of a record store to Beacon Hill for the first time in more than 40 years, but the store itself had been operating in Providence, R.I., for around six and a half years prior to their move to Boston. The store buys, sells, and trades “mostly vinyl,” along with a small selection of cassette tapes, with a focus on jazz and hip hop, said Zachary Warf, who owns and operates Music Research Library together with his business partner, Vasili Kochura. “We love jazz, and we love hip hop,” said Warf. “We love a lot of music from all over the world.” Warf and Vasili have traveled “all over Europe,” including to Italy, France, and Spain, and also visited Japan in search of the eclectic selection of music found at Music Research Library. The store also buys records, with an emphasis on jazz and hip hop. As for the store’s name, Warf said it seemed like somewhat of an obvious choice. “We’re doing music research every day. It’s kind of our job.”

Los Angeles, CA | A window into LA’s budding scene for Latin vinyl records: In an age that’s seen the rise of digitized music and streaming services like Spotify and Apple Music, physical media can seem like a relic of an era gone past; one where records spun on turntables in nearly every house in America. However, in recent years, old-school vinyl has reasserted itself back onto the music collectors’ scene. 2022 marked the 17th consecutive year that record sales grew, benefitting record shops and vinyl pressers alike. At Sonido del Valle, a shop in the Boyle Heights neighborhood of Los Angeles, the vinyl comeback has mostly come in the form of Spanish-language records that underscore the area’s rich Latin American roots. Most of the shop’s offerings are used, and many are more than half a century old. “LA has a really long and rich history of Latin record labels that have been here since the beginning of recorded music,” said owner Rene Perez, who has been running the shop for around five years. “I was just sort of drawn to it. And that’s what kind of made me want to start specifically focusing on that as our main thing.”

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  • SUPPORTING YOUR LOCAL INDIE SHOPS SINCE 2007


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