Name your fav local independent record shops!

[Marco]

{The following discussion has been moved from this thread: http://theartofsound.net/forum/showthread.php?t=9254 }

Well, there's a window of opportunity for someone! ;)

I reckon that, if done right [opening up an independent record shop], it could be a little goldmine. You'd have to cater for the dance and ambient 12" singles (and 7" indie singles) kids would buy, as well as mainstream 'chart music', obscure stuff and audiophile pressings. I have other ideas how to get folk in, too - hey maybe I should start it as a new business venture? :eyebrows:

Anyway, what I'd like everyone to do is name any independent record shops in their area (I might start a new thread for this), letting us know if they have a website and what the address is, including their postal address and telephone number, and then I'll feature all the links and info as a sticky thread in the music room, so that members and lurkers are encouraged to use them....

It could be the start of a widespread 'save your local record shop' campaign! :)

Marco.

P.S This thread will be moved into the music room later and made into a sticky....

[MartinT]

Good idea, Marco. You never know, I might be unaware of a great record shop quite close to me :)

[vinylspinner]

Hi Martin,

The Rock Box

151 London Road, Camberley, WWW.ROCKBOX.CO.UK


great shop, pop in there often when down that way on business.

Nigel

[Marco]

Exactly, it's all about raising public awareness, so let's hear about them folks! :)

Martin, are you anywhere near (ish) Guildford? If so, there's Ben's Records:

http://www.bensrecords.com/mainFrame1.htm

I know of a few folk who go there, and they say it's superb :cool:

Marco.

[ff1d1l]

Excellent idea Marco.

I'll start the ball rolling with my two locals

Cob in Bangor - excellent and stocking lots of vinyl, new and old, as well as music dvd's, cd's etc. Owen also puts on always interesting, often brilliant, gigs locally, mainly by american roots musicians, and he plays drums in Cajuns Dembo too.

http://www.cobrecordsbangor.co.uk/index.php

Cob in Porthmadog - huge central aisle of secondhand vinyl - even just going through the "latest arrivals section" is well worth doing, I only embark on looking through the rest if I've got a free afternoon. Substantial Jazz and Classical sections too.

http://www.cobrecords.com/

[MartinT]

Thank you Nigel, I'll pop over to Camberley sometime.

Marco, I know about Ben's but haven't been able to get over there yet. Will do soon.

[Macca]

For those in the North Staffs/South Cheshire region I would recommend 'Rubber Soul Records' in Hide Street, Stoke Upon Trent. Massive stock of vinyl, some of it stupidly cheap, and 20% off for students.

[Marco]

Thank you Nigel, I'll pop over to Camberley sometime.

Marco, I know about Ben's but haven't been able to get over there yet. Will do soon.


See, it just shows what's there almost on your doorstep that had slipped your mind or you didn't even know of.... ;)

That's what we all have to do - stop taking the easy option of using Amazon and other Internet only organisations, and get out and support REAL record shops!! :)

Marco.

[jantheman]

Substantial Jazz and Classical sections too.

You want to have a look in the Plymouth stores...those sections are virtually non existant. A complete waste of time. I would be surprised if there are more than a couple of hundred CD's between them.

[MartinT]

almost on your doorstep

LOL! Think journey time down here, not distance ;)

[Marco]

Lol - I guess I'm just used to shooting around rural North Wales and Cheshire in no time, as traffic simply isn't an issue! :eyebrows:

I'm also fortunate that I can go to my favourite shops in the morning or early afternoon on weekdays, when they're quiet..... However, I'm sure it'd be worth your effort to go to Ben's and The Rock Box - and when you've been once, you'll be hooked! ;)

Let's all say "get it right up ye!" to music downloads, HMV, Amazon and all the other huge organisations who don't need our money, and reward the little man instead!!

Marco.

[Spectral Morn]

Hi Paul,

Are there any independent records shops that you know of around Stirling or central Scotland? :)

Marco.

Yes

see here http://www.adventuresinhifiaudio.com/31/08/2010/the-state-of-independence-record-shops-in-scotland/ and that's only a few of them... after publishing the article it became clear that there were many I did not know about.


Regards D S D L

[Marco]

Near me in Chester, Grey & Pink:

http://www.heartofapunksoulofarasta.com/grey_n_pink_collectors_records_.html

Superb selection of second-hand vinyl on two floors, manned by enthusiastic and knowledgeable staff who are always up for giving discounts on multiple purchases! :)

Also, Moonlight Records, 27 Bridge Street, Wrexham, Clwyd LL13 7HP.

Tel: 01978361756.

Great selection of second-hand CDs and vinyl, run by a very knowledgeable and helpful record and music enthusiast.

Also, Convoy Records in Frodsham, Cheshire:

http://members.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewUserPage&userid=convoy_records

Same type of thing - great selection of second-hand music on vinyl and CD at superb prices, run by a knowledgeable enthusiast!

Marco.

[Marco]

Yes

see here http://www.adventuresinhifiaudio.com/31/08/2010/the-state-of-independence-record-shops-in-scotland/


Nice one, Neil. I think I'm proving my point that there are more of these types of shops around than folk might have thought, so come on guys, use your imagination, think outside of the box and support your local independent record shops, and shun using the over-commercialised 'usual suspects' retail giants, either on-line or off-line! :)

Marco.

[Spectral Morn]

I will be doing a similar article on Belfast soon. I spoke to one of the owners of Dragon Records before Christmas and he was keen on me doing a write up on his shop.

There is also Head and Good Vibrations as well. I worked for awhile many years ago in Good Vibrations for the Legendary Terry Hooley....what a character.


Regards D S D L

[Marco]

Well, we'll feature them on AoS, too... Links please to their websites? :)

Marco.

[Spectral Morn]

Well, we'll feature them on AoS, too... Links please to their websites? :)

Marco.

That I will have to find out.....


Regards D S D L

[Marco]

Just Google it! :)

Marco.

[Spectral Morn]

Just Google it! :)

Marco.

I have and there was nothing there last time I tried.

Good Vibrations still has no dedicated website...there is a history site etc but nothing contemporary. However Dragon Records now does have something here http://dragonrecordsbelfast.blogspot.com/


Regards D S D L

[Spectral Morn]

Bit about Head here http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Head_Entertainment. I did not know it was a spin off from the failed Zavvi.


Regards D S D L

[Spectral Morn]

Heres a list of shops + links UK wide

http://www.recordstoreday.com/Venues?country=United%20Kingdom


Regards D S D L

[Marco]

I have and there was nothing there last time I tried.

Good Vibrations still has no dedicated website...there is a history site etc but nothing contemporary. However Dragon Records now does have something here http://dragonrecordsbelfast.blogspot.com/


Nice one - cheers! Be honest though, how often have you used these shops in comparison with how much of your music is bought on-line....? ;)

Do you think we've all become a bit lazy in our shopping habits since the advent of the Internet?

Marco.

[Marco]

Heres a list of shops + links UK wide

http://www.recordstoreday.com/Venues?country=United%20Kingdom


Now that's very useful, Neil - cheers. Martin, looks like there's a few more shops not too far away from you! ;)

Marco.

[Spectral Morn]

Nice one - cheers! Be honest though, how often have you used these shops in comparison with how much of your music is bought on-line....? ;)

Do you think we've all become a bit lazy in our shopping habits since the advent of the Internet?

Marco.

I mainly buy from bricks and mortar shops. I only buy online stuff I know I will never see in a shop, old items, deletions, collectables etc

From Head lots of stuff recently, Dragon Records a Porcupine Tree Cd a few weeks ago and once or twice a year I buy loads of stuff from most of the record shops I mention in my Scotland article.

Yes


Regards D S D L

[Marco]

Respect then, Neil! :)

Probe and Diverse Vinyl get the bulk of my business. I do think folk have become lazy, though, since the advent of the Internet, and so whilst great independent shops exist in their vicinity, most people are completely oblivious to them, or ignore them because they can't be arsed with the 'inconvenience' of getting there.... :(

My view is if something is important enough to you, then you'll find the time to do it!!

It's the same when Del and I shun using supermarkets in favour of independent butchers, fishmongers, etc. Trouble is, folk these days have become slaves to convenience because they're too busy running around like headless chickens with no time to themselves, so everything has to be done quick, quick, quick...

Marco.

[Spectral Morn]

Respect then, Neil! :)

Probe and Diverse Vinyl get the bulk of my business. I do think folk have become lazy, though, since the advent of the Internet, and so whilst great independent shops exist in their vicinity, most people are completely oblivious to them, or ignore them because they can't be arsed with the 'inconvenience' of getting there.... :(

My view is if something is important enough to you, then you'll find the time to do it!!

It's the same when Del and I shun using supermarkets in favour of independent butchers, fishmongers, etc. Trouble is, folk these days have become slaves to convenience because they're too busy running around like headless chickens with no time to themselves, so everything has to be done quick, quick, quick...

Marco.

I agree 100% with you.


Regards D S D L

[TCats]

For those in the North Staffs/South Cheshire region I would recommend 'Rubber Soul Records' in Hide Street, Stoke Upon Trent. Massive stock of vinyl, some of it stupidly cheap, and 20% off for students.
I lived in Sandbach in Cheshire in the 60s/early 70s where there was a record shop called Kaths the shop was amazing, boxes on boxes of LPs to browse through I spent hours in there. I doubt Macca will be aware of a record shop in Glebe Street Stoke again in the sixties I cannot remember the name but I spent many a happy hour in there (and the Bridge Pub) when I was a student during lunch breaks. I will look up Rubber Soul Records when I am next in Stoke.
I now trawl through all the Charity Shops looking for bargains.

[Bazil]

Probe Records in Liverpool.
Its only small but well run.
btw its moved from Slater Street to School Lane (behind Primark and NEXT)

[Marco]

Hi Barry,

I know it well ;)

Don't forget to include a link to the website!

Marco.

[sparrow]

Europa Music in Stirling is all I have nearby....

[Marco]

Is it any good, John? :)

Marco.

[Jonboy]

I have bought quite a bit of Vinyl from here


Music Mania

21 W Buildings, Worthing, West Sussex BN11 3BS 01903 203489 ‎


No web site but a good selection of new and used vinyl




Over in Brighton there are loads but heres a couple i have used

This is where i bought all my vinyl as a kid

http://www.rounderbrighton.co.uk/

And this has a good selection of alternative stuff

http://www.resident-music.com/


If your coming down to Brighton just google them

http://www.soundsphenomenal.org/Record_shops.htm

[chris@panteg]

Head , Leamington Spa is the nearest one to me now , its ok but the vinyl selection is a bit disorganized , but hell its better than nothing !

11 Lower Mall Royal Priors Shopping Centre , spa@ehead.co.uk

[WAD62]

Head , Leamington Spa is the nearest one to me now , its ok but the vinyl selection is a bit disorganized , but hell its better than nothing !

11 Lower Mall Royal Priors Shopping Centre , spa@ehead.co.uk

Nice one Chris, I use that too, as it used to be Fopp...

Even better IMHO is 'Rise' at Warwick arts centre (only a few more miles up the a46), which is the return of 'Fopp' under the son's name...the website gives store locations and opening times. They also have stores at Bristol & Cheltenham...

http://www.rise-music.org/

Very little commercial, and lots of very cheap back catalogue stuff, another nice feature is that they're open when there are gigs on at the arts centre. So book a gig and pick up some tunes whilst you're there...it's more reminiscent of the original Fopp store in leamington, before it moved into the precinct...;)

[Alex_UK]

This is a great idea, especially handy for when people are travelling around (i.e. I'm visiting our Guildford branch next week which is in the High Street, so a visit to Ben's looks inevitable! ;))

The one and only independent record shop that I am aware of is Out of Time Records (http://maps.google.co.uk/maps/place?hl=en&rlz=&um=1&ie=UTF-8&q=out+of+time+records+ipswich&fb=1&gl=uk&hq=out+of+time+records&hnear=Ipswich,+Suffolk&cid=15202312048951015968) in Ipswich. (Link is to Google Place Page - can't find a website for them.)

Interesting article from BBC (http://www.bbc.co.uk/suffolk/content/articles/2009/01/30/independents_ipswich_feature.shtml) with a brief interview of the manager here. To be honest, I've only ever been in once and I found it a bit of a shambles, boxes of vinyl everywhere, and full of uni emo kids, and the place is tiny. The guy serving (wasn't the manager) was busy so I didn't get to speak to him. In the light of this thread I will make the effort to visit again!

[Marco]

Thanks for the recent additions, chaps - keep 'em coming!

Hi Alex,


This is a great idea, especially handy for when people are travelling around (i.e. I'm visiting our Guildford branch next week which is in the High Street, so a visit to Ben's looks inevitable! ;))


Good man! I hope you find some interesting stuff and get some bargains. What I'm asking people to do is spend a percentage of their monthly music buying budget with independent record shops, rather than at places like Amazon. Let's save our local record shops!!


The one and only independent record shop that I am aware of is Out of Time Records (http://maps.google.co.uk/maps/place?hl=en&rlz=&um=1&ie=UTF-8&q=out+of+time+records+ipswich&fb=1&gl=uk&hq=out+of+time+records&hnear=Ipswich,+Suffolk&cid=15202312048951015968) in Ipswich. (Link is to Google Place Page - can't find a website for them.)

Interesting article from BBC (http://www.bbc.co.uk/suffolk/content/articles/2009/01/30/independents_ipswich_feature.shtml) with a brief interview of the manager here. To be honest, I've only ever been in once and I found it a bit of a shambles, boxes of vinyl everywhere, and full of uni emo kids, and the place is tiny. The guy serving (wasn't the manager) was busy so I didn't get to speak to him. In the light of this thread I will make the effort to visit again!

Please do :)

That's the 'charm' of a small independent record shop! Immaculately laid out stock in fancy displays is not what you're likely to find, so be prepared to get down on your knees and rummage through box after box of records before you find something that you like - it's all part of the fun!! :cool:

Marco.

P.S Interesting that there were some kids there - shows that these places are not solely frequented by middle-aged dinosaurs! ;)

[chris@panteg]

Nice one Chris, I use that too, as it used to be Fopp...

Even better IMHO is 'Rise' at Warwick arts centre (only a few more miles up the a46), which is the return of 'Fopp' under the son's name...the website gives store locations and opening times. They also have stores at Bristol & Cheltenham...

http://www.rise-music.org/

Very little commercial, and lots of very cheap back catalogue stuff, another nice feature is that they're open when there are gigs on at the arts centre. So book a gig and pick up some tunes whilst you're there...it's more reminiscent of the original Fopp store in leamington, before it moved into the precinct...;)

Thanks Will , i don't know that one ! next time i'm in Warwick :)

[Spectral Morn]

Europa Music in Stirling is all I have nearby....

excellent shop imho/e.....though it can be a tad messy sometimes. However there are sections and everything that should be in them is...usually. I love having a good rummage in it. Every time I am over in Stirling I want to go there first.

http://www.europamusic.co.uk/

Ewan who owns Europa also has a brother who organizes record fairs round Grief, Callander and Dunkeld areas + other parts of Scotland I am sure but don't know about....


Regards D S D L

[shane]

You want to have a look in the Plymouth stores...those sections are virtually non existant. A complete waste of time. I would be surprised if there are more than a couple of hundred CD's between them.

Sadly true. years ago Plymouth had one of the very first Virgin stores which introduced us to loads of stuff and was staffed by guys (and girls) who knew their subject and their customers, and we had Peter Russell's Hot Record Store which was world renowned in Jazz circles and was just the coolest place to hang out bar none.

Nowadays it is impossible to buy new vinyl anywhere closer than Exeter, and anything other than chart CDs are pretty much out of the question. We did have a Zavvi and an HMV. HMV took over the Zavvi, so you can bet your life one of them willbe marked for closure now. A bad state of affairs for a city of 250,000.

Same with hifi. In the early 70's there were seven good independant hifi shops. Now we have Richer Sounds and a very sad branch of Sevenoaks. Sob...

[Marco]

Cheer up - at least it's occasionally sunny! ;)

Marco.

[shane]

Bloody raining right now. :(

[Marco]

Any more details of independent record shops, chaps? :)

Marco.

[The Grand Wazoo]

Action Records in Preston:

http://www.actionrecords.co.uk/

One of the largest independents in the UK, apparently. A fair selection of new vinyl but loads of 2nd hand at good prices - tricky to browse those unless you like kneeling down!
The website allows you to browse everything including the used stock. Knowledgeable staff.

I'm not sure if it's still open, but , Barnstorm Records in Dumfries used to be very, very good with a huge stock of 2nd hand vinyl - over a 3 year period a few years back, Gordon, who ran the shop relieved me of unfeasible quantities of cash as I used to buy his very reasonably priced records in huge quantities!

[satanfriendly]

Found a good 'un in Huddersfield (of all strange places to find a good vinyl supply), 'Wall of sound records'. Keen prices, good service and they care about their vinyl. Big stock and they are on the web - www.wallofsound-records.com

Well worth checking out if you're in the area (or not if ou want to try their web service)

[Macca]

For those in the North Staffs/South Cheshire region I would recommend 'Rubber Soul Records' in Hide Street, Stoke Upon Trent. Massive stock of vinyl, some of it stupidly cheap, and 20% off for students.

Heres the link to Rubber Soul which I neglected to post before

http://www.rubbersoulrecords.co.uk/

[Marco]

Thanks for that, Martin.

It's not a million miles away from me, so I'll pop down at some point, and perhaps pass by chez-toi for some tea and biccies on the way back up the road :)

Marco.

[Macca]

Thanks for that, Martin.

It's not a million miles away from me, so I'll pop down at some point, and perhaps pass by chez-toi for some tea and biccies on the way back up the road :)

Marco.

Anytime, Marco - you've got my phone number. I think.

[Marco]

Cheers, Martin. If I don't, I'll get it from you when I know I'm coming :)

Marco.

[Macca]

Cheers, Martin. If I don't, I'll get it from you when I know I'm coming :)

Marco.

Now your scaring me:lolsign:

[tannoy man]

Spillers Records in Cardiff, which I think is the oldest independent record shop in the World.
I wish I could use it more, but some years ago Cardiff City Council sold all OUR car parks to NCP and now we have some of the highest parking charges in the UK.
PS public transport in this city is a JOKE.

[keiths]

Here's a nice site featuring the record shops in an around Manachester, including news of new vinyl outlets in Sale and Chorlton

http://www.recordshopcity.co.uk/

[dionisio]

The Sheffield folk on here might like to know we finally have a record shop in the city centre again!

Vinyl Demand, on Rockingham Street... and it's a goodie, full of great old stuff. Went in the other day and bought four LPs - friendly guy, too.

[Tim]

Square Records - Wimborne Minster

A dying breed now these small shops, great service and also a selection of S/H albums too. Very good at sourcing what you want as well.

Facebook - Square Records (http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=57772328775#!/group.php?gid=57772328775&v=wall)

[Macca]

Had a little trip to:

http://www.rubbersoulrecords.co.uk/

earlier today

Picked up:

Lloyd Cole & The Commotions - Rattlesnakes
Rainbow - Down to Earth
Joan Armatrading - Track Record
Ted Nugent - State of Shock
Pretenders - Pretenders
Dire Straits - Communique
Mica Paris - So Good
Earth Wind & Fire - All n' All
Pretenders - Learning to Crawl
Bad Company - Straight Shooter
Pat Travers - Go For What You Know
Doobie Brothers - Best Of
Pat Travers - Putting it Straight
Marvin Gaye - Midnight Love
Emmylou Harris - Quarter Moon in a Ten Cent Town

15 (Fifteen) albums for just fifteen of your English pounds - and most are good/perfect outer and inner sleeves as well. No serious scratches or groove damage (with what I've got through so far, anyway;)) and of course any crud just cleans up on the Moth.

Well happy:)

[MartinT]

Lloyd Cole & The Commotions - Rattlesnakes
Dire Straits - Communique
Bad Company - Straight Shooter
Emmylou Harris - Quarter Moon in a Ten Cent Town

Fine albums, those.

[Jac Hawk]

anyone know of any good indie record shops in the North East?

[Thing Fish]

The two that I mainly use are -

Sister Ray - 34/35 Berwick street London W1
www.sisterray.co.uk

Reckless Records - 30 Berwick street London W1
www.reckless.co.uk

[Marco]

Geography was never your strong point, eh Dave? :eyebrows:

Marco.

[Thing Fish]

I just went on the title of the thread...:confused:

[Jac Hawk]

well for me it's only 550 mile round trip:eek:

[Marco]

I just went on the title of the thread...:confused:

Ah, I thought you were replying to Mike's earlier question of "Anyone know of any good indie record shops in the North East?"

It seemed that way, as your response came directly afterwards. No worries :)

Marco.

[Thing Fish]

No worries Marco...:)

I don't often venture north of Watford as I hear the air is thinner and people speak in strange tongues...:lol:

[Macca]

I'm off up Liverpool in a bit - can anyone recommend any 2nd hand vinyl shps in the City Centre?

[snapper]

Hairy in Bold Street.There's a few in this area,just ask a local.

An antique shop in Renshaw Street,next to the Royal Pizza.

[Macca]

Hairy in Bold Street.There's a few in this area,just ask a local.

An antique shop in Renshaw Street,next to the Royal Pizza.

Cheers dude - I grew up there but left in '87 and they seem to have totally rebuilt the whole town since then!

[snapper]

I've only been a couple of times,when Marco took me,but I'm sure you'll find more than I listed.

Enjoy yer day.

:cool:

[Macca]

I've only been a couple of times,when Marco took me,but I'm sure you'll find more than I listed.

Enjoy yer day.

:cool:

Cheers I'd best go or will never get there!

[Marco]

Yep, as David says, Hairy Records in Bold St is excellent, as is that little aniques shop. Also check out the Oxfam at the bottom of Bold St - they have a decent selection.

And Probe have a small second-hand section, too:

http://www.probe-records.com/

Enjoy and let us know what you buy! :)

Marco.

[DanJennings]

Yep, as David says, Hairy Records in Bold St is excellent, as is that little aniques shop. Also check out the Oxfam at the bottom of Bold St - they have a decent selection.

And Probe have a small second-hand section, too:

http://www.probe-records.com/

Enjoy and let us know what you buy! :)

Marco.

Are Probe records just retail, or do they have a label?

I only ask because Half Man Half Biscuit are on Probe Plus, and they're scousers... :)

[Marco]

Hi Dan,

As far as I know, I don't think they've got anything to do with that, but I'm not sure. It would be interesting to find out :)

I wonder what Martin bought then when he was in Liverpool?

Marco.

[Macca]

Hi Dan,

As far as I know, I don't think they've got anything to do with that, but I'm not sure. It would be interesting to find out :)

I wonder what Martin bought then when he was in Liverpool?

Marco.

I never bought anything:( I was meeting family for a meal - it took an hour and a half to get served by which time it was too late for a wander round the shops - still I am up there next weekend staying in Bold Street so will have a chance to wander a bit.

Probe was owned (maybe still is) by the same bloke who manages Half man Half Biscuit so there is a connection. He taught me at school as well.

[DanJennings]

Wikipedia strikes again

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Probe_Records_(shop)

It appears Probe Plus is affiliated with the shop.

[Marco]

I never bought anything:( I was meeting family for a meal - it took an hour and a half to get served by which time it was too late for a wander round the shops...


Nightmare, mate, that's f*cking ridiculous.... But you must be one very patient muchacho.

I'd have given it 30 mins, TOPS (more like 20, probably), and then hauled the manager or owner's ass over to complain, and if my meal didn't arrive within 10 mins MAX after that, I'd be off, with him or her having a flea in their ear!! :guns:

I have a low tolerance threshold for incompetence and disorganisation in restaurants, and so no way would I have waited an hour and a half!! WTF was their excuse? Also which restaurant was it, so I'll know to avoid it like the plague :rolleyes:


- still I am up there next weekend staying in Bold Street so will have a chance to wander a bit.


Nice one. Sounds like you'll be able to make up for it then.


Probe was owned (maybe still is) by the same bloke who manages Half man Half Biscuit so there is a connection. He taught me at school as well.

Ah, I didn't know that. He's certainly a helpful chap, as are all of the staff.

When I'm in there, it's not uncommon for me to arrive at the till with about 50 (usually quite obscure) albums on vinyl to have a quick listen to on their resident T/T (they just skip through the tracks to give me an idea if it's my kind of music or not), which they do gladly, before I buy what I fancy.

Mind you, it's also not uncommon for me to leave having spent about £250, so their efforts are always worth it! :eyebrows:

Marco.

P.S Dan, noted :cool:

[Thing Fish]

I echo the above. 1 1/2 hours. I would have walked out!! That's talking the Micky.

I'm the same as Marco having a low tolerance threshold.

The older I get the more I turn into Mr Angry...:lol:

[Macca]

It was some faux Italian place on the Chevasse Park but I can't remember the name of it. The food was good when it eventually arrived. We were chatting so the time passed without noticing really.

Years ago I might have made a fuss I can't be bothered nowdays. There's no excuse for poor, slow service but it is regretably what one comes to expect in this country if you go somewhere new. I usually eat places I know and where I'm known so as to avoid it.

[Marco]

It was some faux Italian place on the Chevasse Park but I can't remember the name of it. The food was good when it eventually arrived. We were chatting so the time passed without noticing really.


Lol... You wouldn't have been able to chat from the noise of my rumbling belly! :eyebrows:

When I'm at a restaurant, I'm there because I'm hungry and ready to eat. That's the primary purpose of my being there. Chatting can be done later. What was it the old Buitoni pasta ad used to say "Don't talk, EAT"! ;)

Dave, the problem is that the more folk who let these idiots away with shoddy service, the more they'll try to get away with it, so you have to complain, if necessary, to raise their standards to something more acceptable.

Anyway, Martin, I guess we’re all different I just wouldn't have had your patience, particularly when there are 100s of restaurants in Liverpool to choose from. I hope you had a nice day otherwise :cool:

Do you like authentic Chinese food? If so, I can recommend you somewhere just off of Bold St where the food is utterly superb, and the service just as good! I always go there before my record buying trips.

Marco.

[Macca]

Do you like authentic Chinese food? If so, I can recommend you somewhere just off of Bold St where the food is utterly superb, and the service just as good!

Marco.

Do I like Chinese food? Is the Pope Catholic? Recommend away!

[Marco]

Mei Mei in Berry St:

http://www.restaurant-guide.com/mei-mei.htm

Trust me, the food is utterly superb and totally authentic. Not too expensive either. Avoid the plebs set lunch menu, though.

Ask for Bernard, the manager (tall thin guy with a bald head), and tell him Marco (the big Scottish chap, who always comes in with his wife, sent you) and ask him for the Dim Sum menu, and also what he would recommend from the proper Chinese menu (which is written in Chinese).

Their 'Three meat hotpot' is particularly good! Bear in mind that about 70% of the folk eating there will be Chinese.

Oh and from there, Hairy Records, at the top of Bold St, is only about five mins walk :cool:

Marco.

[Macca]

If there are Chinese eating in there it's always a good sign. My favourite place was like that - used to go there with my old man when he was still alive. Oilskin on the tables and an old coke machine in the corner. Unrealistically good food. The bloke retired and sold up in about 1994 and it was never the same after that.

Anyway, I'll check out Mei Mei on Friday, cheers Marco.:cool:

[Marco]

No worries, mate. Mei Mei, in Berry St, is right in the heart of Chinatown, and Liverpool has the oldest one in Europe, so there are loads of good Chinese restaurants there.

We've tried most of them :eyebrows: and the best, without doubt is Mei Mei :)

Another good one, just along the road from Mei Mei, is the Yuet Ben (it's been there for years): http://www.yuetben.co.uk/, but that's only open in the evening.

Right next to that, if you're interested, is an excellent Chinese food market. We always stock up there with goodies to take back home, particularly big bags of Thai scented rice (we use a lot of it), which work out way cheaper than the tiny things you get in supermarkets.

Enjoy, and do let us know how you get on at Mei Mei... Don't forget to ask for Bernard! :cool:

Marco.

[Macca]

.


Enjoy, and do let us know how you get on at Mei Mei... Don't forget to ask for Bernard! :cool:

Marco.

Will do mate - although I've just spent a chunk of my carousing budget on an SL1210:doh:

[northwest]

Bloody Marco. As if things weren't bad enough. He sends me off into the wilds of Cheshire here, to this guy's record shop:
CONVOY RECORDS
6 THE REGENCY
LADY HEYES CRAFT & ANTIQUE CENTRE
KINGSLEY ROAD
FRODSHAM
CHESHIRE
WA6 6SU

Okay, it maybe was a self inflicted wound but I met Rupert the owner and what a great guy! Really, really knows his stuff.
Now, the real attraction - The shop is surrounded by a Micro Brewery (award winning) a load of craft shops a Cheescake Factory and small restaurant. Definately somewhere you could take the missus for a "day out" :lol:

[griffo104]

Probe and Diverse Vinyl get the bulk of my business. I do think folk have become lazy, though, since the advent of the Internet, and so whilst great independent shops exist in their vicinity, most people are completely oblivious to them, or ignore them because they can't be arsed with the 'inconvenience' of getting there.... :(


Diverse isn't just a mail order place - it's cracking little RECORD shop as well. The staff are always friendly in there and it's great being able to flick through records just like when I were a youngster :)

[Marco]

Bloody Marco. As if things weren't bad enough. He sends me off into the wilds of Cheshire here, to this guy's record shop:
CONVOY RECORDS
6 THE REGENCY
LADY HEYES CRAFT & ANTIQUE CENTRE
KINGSLEY ROAD
FRODSHAM
CHESHIRE
WA6 6SU

Okay, it maybe was a self inflicted wound but I met Rupert the owner and what a great guy! Really, really knows his stuff.
Now, the real attraction - The shop is surrounded by a Micro Brewery (award winning) a load of craft shops a Cheescake Factory and small restaurant. Definately somewhere you could take the missus for a "day out" :lol:

It's a great place, Graham, innit? We love mooching around the antique and craft shops, after I've popped in and emptied my wallet a little in Convoy!

Did you pick up any vinyl when you were there - and how's the P2 doing? :)

Marco.

[Marco]

Hi Simon,


Diverse isn't just a mail order place - it's cracking little RECORD shop as well. The staff are always friendly in there and it's great being able to flick through records...


Oh most definitely - and you can't do that sat on your backside in front of a bloody computer....

It's a good job for my bank balance that Diverse aren't in North Wales, as I'd likely be in there every week! :cool:

Marco.

[Spectral Morn]

Forgot about this thread :doh:

I wrote a new article, last year, updating and adding more record shops in Scotland, ones I had missed the first time round.

http://www.adventuresinhifiaudio.com/21/09/2011/the-state-of-independence-two-more-record-shops-in-scotland/


Regards D S D L

[MartinT]

Diverse isn't just a mail order place - it's cracking little RECORD shop as well.

Never seen the actual record shop but I always visit their stand in shows and they are friendly and have great stock. Their mail order side works well, too. If they were close to me I'd be poor :eek:

[Spectral Morn]

Bit about Head here http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Head_Entertainment. I did not know it was a spin off from the failed Zavvi.


Regards D S D L

Sadly Head are no more in Belfast, now having closed down.

You can read more here http://www.adventuresinhifiaudio.com/13/01/2012/head-records-belfast-to-close-another-one-bites-the-dust-perhaps/

Belfast now has only one real record shop Dragon Records as Good Vibrations closed awhile ago as well.

Buying music in NI has taken a huge hit with Head and GV going, sad days indeed :(



Regards D S D L

[johnB]

You may all be aware of his already, but there's a iPhone/iPad App called Vinyl District that keeps a database of Vinyl Friendly stores worldwide.
Cheers
John

[Alex_UK]

You may all be aware of his already, but there's a iPhone/iPad App called Vinyl District that keeps a database of Vinyl Friendly stores worldwide.
Cheers
John

No - I wasn't - fab idea! :)

Cheers for that John. :thumbsup:

[MartinT]

there's a iPhone/iPad App called Vinyl District that keeps a database of Vinyl Friendly stores worldwide.

Nice one, thanks John.

[Alex_UK]

looks really good - thanks again.

[DanJennings]

You may all be aware of his already, but there's a iPhone/iPad App called Vinyl District that keeps a database of Vinyl Friendly stores worldwide.
Cheers
John

Cheers John, just checked and it's on Android too.

[MartinT]

It's confirmed that my closest shop is in Reading :(

[Marco]

Guys,

I'm not sure if this place has been mentioned earlier in the thread or not, but Phil (oceanobsession) has just told me about an utterly fabulous record shop in Birmingham, called The Diskery, which has been in Birmingham for years!

I intend to go there soon and check it out. Snapper, we'll defo go here, mate, when you come down in the summer! Anyway, check out the vid on YouTube:

VhQVBxvkwwU

How awesome is that place?? :stalks: :eek:

I could spend bloody DAYS in there!! :D

Shop details: The Diskery, 99 Bromsgrove Street Birmingham, West Midlands B5 6QB. Tel: 0121 622 2219.

Marco.

[Spectral Morn]

Guys,

I'm not sure if this place has been mentioned earlier in the thread or not, but Phil (oceanobsession) has just told me about an utterly fabulous record shop in Birmingham, called The Diskery, which has been in Birmingham for years!

I intend to go there soon and check it out. Snapper, we'll defo go here, mate, when you come down in the summer! Anyway, check out the vid on YouTube:

VhQVBxvkwwU

How awesome is that place?? :stalks: :eek:

I could spend bloody DAYS in there!! :D

Shop details: The Diskery, 99 Bromsgrove Street Birmingham, West Midlands B5 6QB. Tel: 0121 622 2219.

Marco.

Looks very interesting Marco, nothing like that in NI any more sadly.


Regards D S D L

[northwest]

Guys,

I'm not sure if this place has been mentioned earlier in the thread or not, but Phil (oceanobsession) has just told me about an utterly fabulous record shop in Birmingham, called The Diskery, which has been in Birmingham for years!

I could spend bloody DAYS in there!! :D

Shop details: The Diskery, 99 Bromsgrove Street Birmingham, West Midlands B5 6QB. Tel: 0121 622 2219.

Marco.

I did a bit of a report on it a couple of weeks ago when I was there Marco. Firstly, this is NOT a record shop. It is a hang out for vinyl junkies! It is as removed from a retail shop as you can get. There is a "back room" - I suspect there are several - and I was just told to 'Help yourself'?
Really, really reasonable and everyone there was really knowledgable and very friendly, extremely helpful too.
Make sure you pay the parking though!!!

Edit: Sorry, forgot. Really easy to find and just up the road there is another shop too. I'll get the details.

[snapper]

Guys,Phil (oceanobsession) has just told me about an utterly fabulous record shop in Birmingham, called The Diskery, which has been in Birmingham for years!

Snapper, we'll defo go here, mate, when you come down in the summer!

Marco.

Sounds like a good day out, thanks for the tip Phil.

Now you just need to point us in the right direction for the best curry. :)

Don't worry about price, Marco's paying. :cool:

[Marco]

Hehehe... I've got a good idea where to head for the most authentic one ;)

Sparkbrook. I've been there before: miles of curry houses, each one better than the next :eyebrows:

Marco.

[snapper]

I've got a good idea where to head for the most authentic one ;)

:eyebrows:

Marco.


Oh goody, currytastic.

[Marco]

Aye, that's it in a wanner. It'll be an all-day shot, as it takes an hour and a half to get there, the same back, and I suspect we'll be in The Diskery for a 'wee while'... :eyebrows:

Marco.

[snapper]

We could always op in to see ...

... on second thoughts, maybe not.

[oceanobsession]

Marco is right about sparkbrook for curry houses, theres also another musical
experience to be had, which is another vinyl shop within walking distence from the diskery,which is known as the musical exchange.this shop also
has seconhand vinyl.

[Marco]

We could always op in to see ...

... on second thoughts, maybe not.


Hahaha... Bring a boax of Anadin! :D

Marco.

[Marco]

Marco is right about sparkbrook for curry houses, theres also another musical
experience to be had, which is another vinyl shop within walking distence from the diskery,which is known as the musical exchange.this shop also
has seconhand vinyl.

Jeez, it gets even better! :eek:

Hope you're joining us, Phil? :cool:

Marco.

[ursus262]

I quite like La Boite Musique in Brussels. Like into a different world. And we get some amazing records including some mint 10 inch pressings of Kathleen Ferrier from the local charity shops.

[Audioman]

The Diskery is unique. Ages since I last went there. They use to have ash trays perched on top of the records. I expect the smoking ban put paid to that. The Music Exchange up the road is overpriced and low in quality in my opinion unless it has improved. For new records Swordfish are still going in Birmingham Centre.

[northwest]

You may all be aware of his already, but there's a iPhone/iPad App called Vinyl District that keeps a database of Vinyl Friendly stores worldwide.
Cheers
John

This was posted elsewhere so I downloaded it and yesterday it cost me fifty quid in a Record Shop in the West End I didn't know was there!
There is another shop BM Music in D'Arblay street, just off Wardour Street in SOHO that I must have been past a dozen times!
Not your run of the mill place either. Really out in left field. Don't know what you would classify the shop as but some fabulous Funk/Trance/Techno
Need to spend some time there. They have at least half a dozen 1210's all set up and it is a matter of treat it like it's yours.

[twelvebears]

Found a good 'un in Huddersfield (of all strange places to find a good vinyl supply), 'Wall of sound records'. Keen prices, good service and they care about their vinyl. Big stock and they are on the web - www.wallofsound-records.com

Well worth checking out if you're in the area (or not if ou want to try their web service)

*sigh* Not any more... Sad, just like Beanos in Croydon. :(

[DanJennings]

I go to the Diskery now and then, but a lot of their stock has been there for years and is a bit tatty, Music + Video Exchange is just up the road, and there are bargains to be had there, their pricing policy seem rather random! Hard To Find records is pretty close to there too, mostly dance music and they also specialise in DJ equipment etc.
If you're in the brum area, you have to try Polar Bear records in Kings Heath, they specialise in prog, death metal and krautrock, but they have bits and bobs of folk and ambient etc

[griffo104]

I go to the Diskery now and then, but a lot of their stock has been there for years and is a bit tatty, Music + Video Exchange is just up the road, and there are bargains to be had there, their pricing policy seem rather random! Hard To Find records is pretty close to there too, mostly dance music and they also specialise in DJ equipment etc.
If you're in the brum area, you have to try Polar Bear records in Kings Heath, they specialise in prog, death metal and krautrock, but they have bits and bobs of folk and ambient etc

I used to love the Diskery. I've so many great 2nd hand records bought from there and they were always happy to order records in for you. I bought my Linn hifi from Griffin Audio when it was just round the corner from there on Bristol Street so it was easy to in there and spend a lots of my money. first time I went in there I didn't realise they didn't take cards and the owner drove me round to Five Ways to use the cashpoint there :D

they thought it was amusing that I had just bought my first turntable when people were getting rid of their's at the time.

I've got a wonderful Shostakovich box set of later symphonies I got from there and I was once allowed upstairs where he kept all his Deccas and EMIs.

Great times to be a young vinylista :) Seems so long ago now :(

This must be about 15 years ago now. the only time I ever get in to the centre of Brum now is to watch the mighty Villa.

[Marco]

I go to the Diskery now and then, but a lot of their stock has been there for years and is a bit tatty, Music + Video Exchange is just up the road, and there are bargains to be had there, their pricing policy seem rather random! Hard To Find records is pretty close to there too, mostly dance music and they also specialise in DJ equipment etc.
If you're in the brum area, you have to try Polar Bear records in Kings Heath, they specialise in prog, death metal and krautrock, but they have bits and bobs of folk and ambient etc

Thanks for the tip on Polar Bear records, Dan - the trip to Brum is gonna be a good one! :cool:

Marco.

[griffo104]

The Diskery is unique. Ages since I last went there. They use to have ash trays perched on top of the records. I expect the smoking ban put paid to that. The Music Exchange up the road is overpriced and low in quality in my opinion unless it has improved. For new records Swordfish are still going in Birmingham Centre.

I thought Swordfish had closed down ??????

[Audioman]

I thought Swordfish had closed down ??????

They appeared to be still open last summer but don't have a web presence to check. I read there were plans to vacate the shop and move to one of the markets as a vinyl only operation. On another note Morris Hunting founder of the Diskery died in Jan at 82. Don't know what implications this has. The stock was old and often of dubious quality 20 years ago. They must be selling enough to keep going though.

[griffo104]

They appeared to be still open last summer but don't have a web presence to check. I read there were plans to vacate the shop and move to one of the markets as a vinyl only operation. On another note Morris Hunting founder of the Diskery died in Jan at 82. Don't know what implications this has. The stock was old and often of dubious quality 20 years ago. They must be selling enough to keep going though.

Someon sent me a photo of Swordfish all closed up with a sign for the lease of the shop last year. Made me very sad as I have great memories of the place as teenager being in to alternative music - they released Godflesh's first album.

I also think Tempest also closed and ended up as a market stall as well - just so sad. My 2 main shops for music when I was growing up.

Amazon and Play and the like will never be able to replace those Saturday morning flicking through the CDs (at the time) and then chatting to guys working in there and trying out there recommendations.

Just so depressed myself now :(

[MartinT]

never be able to replace those Saturday morning flicking through the CDs (at the time) and then chatting to guys working in there and trying out there recommendations.

Going further back, I used to love going to the original Virgin store in Oxford Street, accessed by walking through a shoe shop and up the stairs at the back. Flicking through the large collection of vinyl, chatting with staff and being served by Richard Branson himself. Memories.

[Tim]

Going further back, I used to love going to the original Virgin store in Oxford Street, accessed by walking through a shoe shop and up the stairs at the back. Flicking through the large collection of vinyl, chatting with staff and being served by Richard Branson himself. Memories.
I remember that too Martin, I lived in Ruislip then and recall sitting on bean bags listening to Tubular Bells - happy days :)

[MartinT]

I remember that too Martin

Gosh, to think that we might have even crossed tracks that lifetime ago!

[northwest]

Going further back, I used to love going to the original Virgin store in Oxford Street, accessed by walking through a shoe shop and up the stairs at the back. Flicking through the large collection of vinyl, chatting with staff and being served by Richard Branson himself. Memories.

I know the solicitor very well who, as an articled clerk, was sent to buy two records from that store and if possible from Mr Branson himself in order that an injunction be obtained to prevent them from copying any more vinyl.
Betcha didn't know that!

[MartinT]

No I didn't. Copying as in from the master or copy tape, or from another record? Copy to cassette or vinyl?

[Audioman]

I know the solicitor very well who, as an articled clerk, was sent to buy two records from that store and if possible from Mr Branson himself in order that an injunction be obtained to prevent them from copying any more vinyl.
Betcha didn't know that!

I thought Branson had problems with the revenue as he avoided tax to reduce prices by re-importing records that were meant for export. Don't think he had a pressing plant producing bootlegs. :scratch:

[LWSTeac]

The Philadelphia Record Exchange.
The Book Trader.
AKA Music.
All in sunny (its gloomy today) Philadelphia.

[Gmanuk101]

Just wished to share what I have found in Edinburgh with you. A great little records store by the name of VoxBox Records on St Stephen Street, Stockbridge, Edinburgh.

I was in at the weekend and picked up a Prince 7", Stranglers 7", Blonde 7", a Zappa Album, Carole King Album and a Van Morrison Album, all for what I think is a resonable price and not a mark on the vinyls!

Got chatting with George behind the counter and he mentioned a little event that had sadly just passed, bring you records to a pub night, you get 40mins of DJ time, a great idea and one I may attempt to get involved with next time.

Got to say it's really refreshing talking to people who love music and have a wide/varied taste.

Anyway, VoxBox Records is the name if you are interested http://voxboxmusic.co.uk/

[RichB]

I like the 'bring your records to the pub' idea... particularly if the pub/organisers were sorting out a nice system to play them on.

This could have some potential and the organisers could charge a nominal fee to cover the expense of dragging their gear around.

[Marco]

{Last two posts moved from Blank Canvas}

Marco.

[The Grand Wazoo]

Jeeeeeeeeeez Marco, you've just cleared 30k posts!

[Marco]

Yerse... I noticed that yesterday - £30K+ of pish! :eyebrows:

Marco.

[The Grand Wazoo]

Did you see my PM (and most importantly click on the link in it)?

[Marco]

Yes, just got it. What a beast, eh? :eek:

However, preferably I like to use cartridges and SUTs from the same manufacturer: ones which have been designed as a partnership, from the ground up, as experience tells me that's how things tend to sound best.

I wonder what's inside the AT to make it so heavy, though? Must be some bad-ass trannies in there!!

Marco.

[realysm42]

Banquet records in Kingston are good; I can go in and have a chat with them, ask for things of a certain flavour and they provide the goods. They put on nights and seem really interested in what they do, so fair play to them!

[northwest]

I have to go to Bristol next week on business and I know there are a couple of record shops there. I will be near Broadmead area if that makes any sense. What would those "in the know" suggest?

TIA.

[Marco]

Seems like the Bristol crew have gone all shy... Did you find any good shops there, Graham? :)

Marco.

[icehockeyboy]

Robs Record Mart, Hurts Yard, Nottingham.

[Macca]

For a couple of months now Graham Northwest and I have been ransacking the reord shops of the West Midlands like swashbucklers of old roving the Spanish Main ;) - today we went a bit further afield - to this place just outside of Nottingham:

http://www.recordshopnottingham.com/

Langley Mills Records - fantastic place - huge with everything laid out well, plenty of space and quite well catalogued too. Prices quite reasonable plus there is a 'dem room' in the back where you can try befoe you buy. Nice. There is a lot to go through, took several hours.

Anyway - Picked up this little lot for not more than three quid and change per record:

http://i903.photobucket.com/albums/ac233/Macca_photos_2009/002-6.jpg

[northwest]

Yes, 'tis true i'm afraid. I have been telling one lot of pople I am at work in Manchester and another lot I am at work in London. When really I am in a greasy spoon somewhere with Martin plotting the assault. On this occassion, I kept the owner distracted whilst Martin actually got down, under the tables and started emptying boxes. My big prize today was the three LP discography by Rush, in mint condition, for a fiver!!
Then Floyd "the Final Cut" and you could tell it was a real enthusiast had it as it is in a Nagakoa sleeve and the original sleeve inserted into the cover as well!
Great day out:rolleyes:

[jollyfix]

BLACK CAT Records Taunton,nice selection of old and new vinyl + very good cd selection,new and second hand

[sparrow]

I was in my only local record store yesterday and what a mess it has got into. Europa records in Stirling. In the vinyl bit at the back you had to climb over boxes of records and loads of LP's were out in the wrong place. He really needs to get rid of all the dross and believe me there are loads of crap poor condition records that need to go in a skip ..also he overcharged me £5 ..

[waterbrother]

RetroFit Records in Tallahassee FL!!

http://www.facebook.com/RetrofitRecords

[Marco]

I've just discovered a new (to me) record shop in Liverpool, called Musical Box, which is in 457 West Derby Road, Liverpool, Merseyside L6 4BL. Tel: 01512 633845.

http://www.cylex-uk.co.uk/company/the-musical-box-13393277.html

Has anyone been to it? I've not been yet, but just wondered if it was any good? I'll be popping in to check it out next time I'm in Liverpool :)

Marco.

[hard1175]

A good record shop is Wanted records in Beckenham Kent.
They have a very good stock of second hand vinyl and Cds.

Bernie

[AlanS]

For new records Swordfish are still going in Birmingham Centre.

I thought Swordfish had closed? Another visit them

[DanJennings]

I thought Swordfish had closed? Another visit them

Yep, still open, I was in there just a couple of weeks ago.

[AlanS]

Yep, still open, I was in there just a couple of weeks ago.

Used to be a weekly visit until my circumstance changed. Good but not huge vinyl selection.

[Covenant]

I've just discovered a new (to me) record shop in Liverpool, called Musical Box, which is in 457 West Derby Road, Liverpool, Merseyside L6 4BL. Tel: 01512 633845.

http://www.cylex-uk.co.uk/company/the-musical-box-13393277.html

Has anyone been to it? I've not been yet, but just wondered if it was any good? I'll be popping in to check it out next time I'm in Liverpool :)

Marco.

I wonder if they are early Genesis fans?

[Marco]

Hi Jerry,

I suspect so! Something also tells me that they'll have a decent, and perhaps eclectic, selection of vinyl :)

Marco.

[AlanS]

Just returned from a visit to Swordfish, Temple Street, Birmingham. A greater stock of new and used vinyl than 2yrs ago. CD stock not so wide due to downloads.

Give him a visit.

[archiesdad]

I'd like to give a wee mention for my local dealer Ali who runs "Third Base" in Chapel Street, Dunfermline. A large?(well to me anyway) collection of vinyl,cd and even some cassette tapes, worth a look if your near.

[Floyddroid]

Radar records in the Shambles, Whitby. brill record shop. just got some wicked albums by The Enid and UK there. Sound it out records in stockton on Tees Too, fab! I'll be back there next week for the new Asia album XXX.:cool:

[SonicHammer]

Pinball Wizard Records Belgrade Serbia http://www.pinballwizardrecords.com/ New records and CDs.

Leila Belgrade Serbia Records & Books, mostly used http://www.leila.rs/

Yugovinyl Belgrade Serbia only but tousents of used records! http://yugovinyl.blogspot.com/

[PLINIUS]

Everyman Records, Nelson.N.Z.
Pop in, have a chat about music with the owner or one of the staff, they are all enthusiasts. The new & s/h records section is well stocked & presented. If they don't have what you want, you might have to sit down with one of them & go through the import lists.
Not as convenient as pushing a button, but an infinately more satisfying experience.
A bit like vinyl itself, if you'll pardon the obvious analogue analogy.

[MartinT]

Bloody hell, I need to make a retraction. I have mercilessly hammered HMV for being utter crap and deserving to go out of business, and what do I see in the Basingstoke branch today? 12 new full vertical racks of vinyl!! Fantastic!

I had a good chat with the staff, who seemed genuinely thrilled at having vinyl back in stock again. Classics such as Simon & Garfunkel - Bridge Over Troubled Waters, Uriah Heep - Demons and Wizards and Tangerine Dream - Ricochet on new vinyl release. Did you ever think you'd see those titles on fresh vinyl again?

So I bought:

- Nils Lofgren - Old School
- Muddy Waters & Rolling Stones - Live Chicago 1981 [LP/CD/DVD set]
- Spiritualized - Lazer Guided Melodies

I could have bought so much more, but I'd already done a charity shop haul.

A mention for the Basingstoke branch of the British Heart Foundation, the best charity shop in the area for vinyl. I bought:

- Spirit - Future Games
- Herbie Hancock - V.S.O.P.
- Justin Hayward - Night Flight
- Dr Hook - A Little Bit More
- Bruce Hornsby and the Range - The Way It Is [12" single]

All minty good. A most pleasing day.

[Marco]

Nice one, Martin. The same thing's happened in the Chester branch. I bought a few things myself there recently, including the Nils Lofgren. What do you think of it? :)

It's excellent news though for vinyl fans, and a sure sign that, in recent times, the black shiny stuff is now more popular than ever, if somewhere as mainstream-focussed as HMV are reviving it in their stores! :yay:

Marco.

[northwest]

Bloody typical, walked past the HMV in the Westfield centre yesterday because, in the back of my mind, a little voice was saying "nothing to see here, move on" when in fact there could have been quite a bit. I might have time tomorrow for a recce as Martin and I have a London Raid planned very soon!

[The Vinyl Adventure]

I just got both of these at the same time in Rise in Worcester ...

http://i728.photobucket.com/albums/ww282/hamish_gill/07CD91EC-CDB3-44C3-8F08-3FC0DCBAF844-9412-00000686EBAF86B1.jpg

I suppose that makes it my favorite local independent ... But being as it is the only local independant I don't have a choice anyway :)

From todays visit i would say HMV in Worcester remains pants

[MartinT]

including the Nils Lofgren. What do you think of it? :)

The jury's out, Marco. Nothing struck me in the first play-through, but it might be one of those slow burners.

[Marco]

Exactly my view.

I like it, and am glad I bought it, but it's rather different (heavier and less acoustic in style) than I expected, and the recording quality is merely decent, but nothing special.

Still, worth having, as I do like Nils Lofgren :)

Marco.

[Rare Bird]

There's a record shop in the market called 'Spin It Records' i was wondering if anyone had visited this shop & also anymore Record shops in Hull i must know about? I'm off there next Friday :)

[littlest hobo]

This place might be worth a visit, they say they organise record fairs locally http://www.gjm-music.co.uk/.

In the mid-90's there were 3 shops worth a visit, two within walking distance of the town centre. My favourite was nearly opposite the train station on the corner of Carr Lane, it's been many years since I last visited and I have no idea if it's still there - be nice to know if it survived.

[Rare Bird]

In the mid-90's there were 3 shops worth a visit, two within walking distance of the town centre. My favourite was nearly opposite the train station on the corner of Carr Lane, it's been many years since I last visited and I have no idea if it's still there - be nice to know if it survived.

Thanks Claire is it called 'Book and Record Exchange' by any chance?

[The Grand Wazoo]

The one in the market Andre - if it's the same one I know from about five years back - a big selection of interesting stuff and not just the usual stuff you see.
BUT
Despite looking in really good condition, most of those I bought there were unplayable in terms of noise. I reckon they'd been cleaned with something abrasive to make them shine and look good. Totally buggered the sound though - I don't mean a few crackles and pops.
Treat that place with extreme caution, mate.

[Rare Bird]

Thanks Chris
I will only buy 2nd hand Vinyl in extreme desperation all tho i'll take on what you said.

[The Grand Wazoo]

Yes, I know that, but if that trick is still being played, then you might think you were buying pristine stuff.

[Barry]

Bloody hell, I need to make a retraction. I have mercilessly hammered HMV for being utter crap and deserving to go out of business, and what do I see in the Basingstoke branch today? 12 new full vertical racks of vinyl!! Fantastic!

I had a good chat with the staff, who seemed genuinely thrilled at having vinyl back in stock again. Classics such as Simon & Garfunkel - Bridge Over Troubled Waters, Uriah Heep - Demons and Wizards and Tangerine Dream - Ricochet on new vinyl release. Did you ever think you'd see those titles on fresh vinyl again?

So I bought:

- Nils Lofgren - Old School
- Muddy Waters & Rolling Stones - Live Chicago 1981 [LP/CD/DVD set]
- Spiritualized - Lazer Guided Melodies

I could have bought so much more, but I'd already done a charity shop haul.



Popped into my local HMV today. Absolutely no change (apart from the "25% off" sale). It didn't seem to be that busy (especially for a Saturday), and I got the impression they were still resting on their laurals: being the only record store in Chelmsford.

Still far too much computer stuff, headphones and fitness/workout videos. :(

Nonetheless I bought eight CDs.

[MartinT]

Yes, the 'white goods' (as I condescending like to call Apple paraphernalia) are still there in prominence. If they got rid of that crap, think how much more floor space could be dedicated to music, instead of squeezing it into the back rows.

[Macca]

Nonetheless I bought eight CDs.

:lol: Now you've posted that the new CEO will be out first thing tomorrow putting a down payment on a boat.

[daytona600]

STS Digital
demo cds as used at all the major shows , Rammstein to the kings singers Shostakovich to the Stranglers
Cd/Sacd/180g vinyl & DSD recorded 5.1 Sacd surround

see link below for a full list

http://scottnangle.co.uk/sts_digital_28.html

CDs @ £ 17.99
CDs marantz @ £ 15.35
180g vinyl @ £ 23.50

free postage to all AOS members

Highest ever sound rating by hifi news 95%

Will post a list of new vinyl later . mail order no problem
lots of pre-orders due in as well , or send me a wanted new vinyl list
__________________

[MartinT]

Sweet Memories, Portsmouth

http://www.vinylrecords.co.uk/images2/vinyl_record_shop.jpg

I spent a happy hour in this excellent vinyl establishment, browsing and chatting with the owner. His knowledge is extensive and he has everything on database for easy lookup. He says that most of his business is international internet based.

Records are racked by value, with the £20 and £15 sections well stocked with visually perfect LPs. Picture discs and rarities are all round the walls. There is a bargain section at the back of the shop with all sorts of cheap hidden goodies, too.

If you go there, tell him you found them on the internet and you will get a good discount off the sticker prices.

http://www.vinylrecords.co.uk/

[Wakefield Turntables]

Went to York on Friday and could only find two record shops. Ofxam on Micklegate was quite good but very limited with probably less than 100 records to select from, but, they were quite well priced. The second shop I managed to find was opposite Sound Organisation in Gillygate called the Inkwell. If you go through the back of the shop you come across probably 3-400 well kept and eclectic records! My biggest gripe with this shop was lack of genre order. Since when has Egg (yep the prog group) been rock music????? Quite expensive but worth a vist. I must admit i could not find Attic Records, but thats another visit maybe. I did find Sound Organisation which sells gear rather than vinyl and must admit it was pretty limited with it just stocking Linn & Naim gear (nothing wrong if you like that sort of kit). Finally for a laugh I had a look in Richer Sounds, hmmmmm less said about that shop the better.

[Rare Bird]

Prog is classed as Rock music, it's only a sub gen of it even tho it's the king of music styles :D Get owt i'd be intrested in then Andrew?

[Wakefield Turntables]

nope no new fuzzies Andre, I had the missus hanging over my shoulder so I didnt have much time. I have just found a record shop in Wakefield :eek: I bought 3 camal records for £20 the other day, Rain Dancer, Stationary traveller and Camel. Otherwise, nothing new, not even anything from 'uddersfield.

[Rare Bird]

uddersfield :lol:

What was the Egg fuzzy?

[Wakefield Turntables]

The Egg fuzzy was The Polite Force, I already have a copy but this has less surface noise. ;)

[Wakefield Turntables]

PUBLIC APOLOGY!

I didn't even see this thread, sorry for wasting moderators time splicing my old thread and plonking it here.

SORRY!

[Marco]

Yer all right, ya dafteeeeeeeee! :D

Marco.

[Wakefield Turntables]

:thumbsup:
Yer all right, ya dafteeeeeeeee! :D

Marco.

[Rare Bird]

The Egg fuzzy was The Polite Force, I already have a copy but this has less surface noise. ;)

Ey up Andrew

Bit late but i need 'Polite Force' on Vinyl i only have the CDee :rolleyes:

[Wakefield Turntables]

Get ready to pay a pretty penny Andre as its quite rare. Im now after the last Hatfield and the north lp, this rarely seems to come up on fleabay.

[Rare Bird]

Yeh i know, saying that i keep getting blown out bidding for 'Civil Surface' on Caroline Recs

Didnt like Hatfield & The North

[Qwin]

Glad I found this thread, I like to know what outlets are available so if I travel to a distant town I can check out whats in their stock. I much prefere to use real shops where you can inspect and even listen to the record before purchase.

Went to Glasgow a couple of weeks back checked out http://www.monorailmusic.com/
They have a large selection of NEW VINYL both re-release and first time release. I Guestimated by counting the number of rows and bays that they had about 2,500+ new records on display.

They cater for Jazz, Rock, Folk, Regae pretty much everything. I noticed Kind of Blue by Miles Davis in one bay. I purchased the re-release of Forever Changes by Love, bit of classic Psychedelia.

I noticed only 30 or so second hand records pushed in to one bay and commented on the lack of second hand items. The manager said they had loads of second hand in storage but just didn't have the space for it, "besides used original vinyl is only ever going to go up in value." So I guess they are waiting till this wave of intrest in vinyl peaks before they dip into that stock and reap max profit.

[Marco]

Hi Ken,

Monorail is fantastic. I always pop in there when I'm up in Glasgow. It's one of the few places I know where you can buy some records, then retire to the bar for a few beers and a decent meal, and mong out on some nice comfy chairs, whilst looking through the stuff you've bought! Quality :cool:

There are a few other record shops in Glasgow I'd recommend. Next time you're going, let me know and I'll give you the details.

Marco.

[Qwin]

I also checked out "Love Music" while in Glasgow, not as impressive, mainly Indie/rock, with a smallish selection of other mixed genres and a fair number of second hand items. I bought a used copy of Peter Framptons I'm in you.

Word on the street was that "Mixed up Records" would be the place for me with a large stock of used records to suit most tastes. Bit far from the centre, more of a ride than a walk, but I was told its down an alley that you can park in, so easy to visit. Maybe on my next trip. :D

[AlexM]

beggars banquet in Kingston

[steviej233]

beggars banquet in Kingston

Do you mean Banquet Records? Shop with a:) blue front? I was just about to mention these guys! The staff are really helpful and very knowledgeable about there products. It's nice to meet people who really love music and have a great variety of different tunes.

[AlexM]

That's the one!. A great little shop - thank God for independents like them!

[steviej233]

That's the one!. A great little shop - thank God for independents like them!

I really like shopping in there, buying online isn't the same and an HMV store is more like a jumble sale these days, can't find a bloody thing!

[Rare Bird]

I'm off to uddersfield this morning, first stop is 'Vinyl Tap Ltd' records bang across from the Choo Choo station, ive never been there..They actually have a Record Fair 1st Sat of every month too...

[Marco]

Enjoy, dude. Hope you find some good stuff! :)

Marco.

[Rare Bird]

Thousands of used records down stairs but nothing for me.. One or two in the record fair but way too expensive. However upstairs in the new records dept i bought the below fuzzies..

Missus Beastly 's/t'
Eyes Of Blue 'Crossroads Of Time'
Magic Mixture 'This Is' (for all those that don't know Stan Curtis of Cambridge Audio fame was the Keyboard player in this band)

[stairpost]

Plastic wax at the bottom of Gloucester Rd in Bristol.

Nice selection of everything. Rare and everyday stuff. Even if I go in with less than a fiver I still come out with a decent record or two.

[prsjnb]

Sound Knowledge in Marlborough, Wilts. Best independent music store in the area by far, IMHO. Good stock, wide variety, all formats, new, not so new and oldies but goodies. Regularly organises, in conjunction with the Azuza Coffee Bar and Club next door, events that provide an opportunity to sample live performances from both up-and-coming and established artists (well and lesser known). Yer main man Roger (picture on right) is a Diamond Geezer, a wealth of knowledge and seems to have been involved in the music business (sales and reproduction) for more years than I'm sure he cares to remember. Having said that, all the people I've ever met on t'other side of the counter (young and not so young) are knowledgeable and bubbling over with enthusiasm :yay:.

http://lds.localdataimages.com/large/2114/21144225.jpg http://www.chambernews.biz/userfiles/image//SoundKnowledge.jpg

Sound Knowledge on Facebook: https://en-gb.facebook.com/pages/Sound-Knowledge/108109829223506

For the record (no pun intended), I am unrelated to any of those who work there (now or in the past) and have no vested interest in the business other than hoping that it continues to thrive :)

Jon ;)

[Marco]

Nice one, Jon. Looks like a great place. If I'm ever in Wiltshire, I'll defo pop in. Have they got a decent vinyl section? :)

Marco.

[Anti Meep]

Real Groovy Records in Queen Street, Auckland. Massive!:)

[MartinT]

Nice one, Jon. I'm not so far that I don't fancy a jaunt there and Marlborough is a nice little town.

[Audioman]

Only used them for mail order but must pay a visit.

Those Old Records
Brewery Street Shopping Centre
Rugeley
Staffordshire

New and used records - extensive used selection.

http://www.thoseoldrecords.co.uk/

[ceejaydee]

Both the Mrs and I love Sound Knowledge in Marlborough; we spent our first Wedding Anniversary day there earlier this month, Marlborough that is not the record shop :D

Well worth the 240 odd mile round trip for us.

David's Books and Music in Letchworth is a fantastic emporium and not too far from me yet despite being local for ten years I only discovered it whilst browsing the Internet for a suitable venue to spend Record Store Day.
Plenty of new and used CDs and more importantly for me tons of vinyl both new and used.

http://www.davids-bookshops.co.uk/

Coffee shop inside store so the other half can relax whilst you spend hours browsing through the racks or if your good lady partakes then she may come out with a few treasures of her own too :eyebrows:

Ample local parking and the shop is open on Sundays with free local parking... guess where we went earlier today ;)

[Marco]

Only used them for mail order but must pay a visit.

Those Old Records
Brewery Street Shopping Centre
Rugeley
Staffordshire

New and used records - extensive used selection.

http://www.thoseoldrecords.co.uk/

That's an interesting one... Not too far from me. Didn't know that was there! What's the quality of their stuff like? :)

Marco.

[Audioman]

That's an interesting one... Not too far from me. Didn't know that was there! What's the quality of their stuff like? :)

Marco.

I have only bought a couple records and they were both as described. The latest was a copy of Pentangle's Sweet Child which is pretty scarce. Though a second label pressing it was cheaper than ebay prices. I will have to visit as it's not a long trip from Rugby. Also he cleans records sold with an RCM though doesn't put them in fresh inners. Usually a good selection on the web site at reasonable prices, so I imagine this is a small part of his stock. Also sells a selection of new vinyl.

Paul.

[ceejaydee]

......this place just outside of Nottingham:

http://www.recordshopnottingham.com/

Langley Mills Records - fantastic place - huge with everything laid out well, plenty of space and quite well catalogued too. Prices quite reasonable plus there is a 'dem room' in the back where you can try befoe you buy. Nice. There is a lot to go through, took several hours......

This shop is both huge and fantastic - you could lose days in there never mind hours.
Almost two hours of browsing and I didn't even make it through the whole of the 12" dance singles section.
So a big pile of dance singles, a couple of albums and a Robin Trower LP and still went away with change from £20! :scratch: Must try harder next time.

[Zoidburg]

Probe records in liverpool city centre is always worth a look, mainly new stuff rather than 2nd hand tho.

[sparrow]

was in me local Europa..bought a few LP's 9 in total find of the day was Slayer ''Divine Intervention'' £3 not in great nick but I was well chuffed. Ewans stock is starting to get interesting as it usually does. He still has loads of Pishanto and his cd selection is dire but the last week has seen things really improve..there were a few teenagers in the shop when I was in all looking and all buying vinyl which was good to see. Not dance pishanto but Neil Young and Beatles LP's.

[loo]

After 35years of shopping there I still spend most of my money in Rough Trade

[Wakefield Turntables]

Im in no way shape or form linked to this shop but just happened to "find" it. I spent £35 of my hard earned to try and offer some support. Stu, the guy who runs the shop has a very nice selection of new and used vinyl and is happy to haggle. I got a few quid knocked off a Russian import of Black Sabbath! Please pop in and support him if you can. I have added a link with more info http://alternativebarnsley.wordpress.com/2013/06/05/stu-sheard-debut-records/

Thanks for reading lads!

A

[The Grand Wazoo]

We're just back from a few days in Cornwall and on Saturday I went to a shop called Music Nostalgia in Truro (it's in the Pannier Market on the Lemon Quay if you want to go there yourself).
Well, what a delight it was! They have a massive selection of new vinyl - more than I have seen for years, apart from perhaps Diverse Vinyl. They also have a good stock of used stuff too, mostly at reasonable prices.
Nice friendly folk and lots of appreciative customers.

[Marco]

So what did you buy? :)

Marco.

[The Grand Wazoo]

From yesterday's portion of Spinning Today:


Just back from a trip away - no music except the car stereo since Thursday - boo, hiss!
First album on the TT?
A newly acquired copy of an album I used to own, as did Mrs Wazzles, yet neither of us know what happened to either copy.

Robin Trower - 'Long Misty Days'

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41ob6FQ5TqL._SY450_.jpg

...and...


http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51fvOs94OJL._SL500_AA280_.jpg

New Rhino vinyl.
I'll have to compare this to my WWA originals.

....and...


Plainsong - 'In Search of Amelia Earheart'

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51AmScjyovL.jpg

A lovely new pressing of this old beauty! Excellent.

[Stubies]

This topic would be great for a some technology leveraging...

Has anyone made a shared google map for record shops?

Everyone could add their fav shops - then they are easy to find when we travel about....

just at though



From yesterday's portion of Spinning Today:



http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41ob6FQ5TqL._SY450_.jpg

...and...



....and...

[The Grand Wazoo]

Great idea.
But...technology leveraging? Really?.......technology leveraging.......I'd rather not!

[johnB]

This topic would be great for a some technology leveraging...

Has anyone made a shared google map for record shops?

Everyone could add their fav shops - then they are easy to find when we travel about....

just at though

http://i1300.photobucket.com/albums/ag89/Jrb1961/image_zps0d64ae75.jpg (http://s1300.photobucket.com/user/Jrb1961/media/image_zps0d64ae75.jpg.html)

Stuart, there is an App for iPad/iPhone etc called "The Vinyl District: Record Store Locator" which does just this.....so whatever city you find yourself in the world you can get a list of record stores in ranked distance from your location (and a map facility).....it's helped me in Germany, Spain, the USA and even in Yorkshire......and it's all free. That is, free but somehow not cheap when it helps you discover that you're staying close to a Vinyl store, in fact it can be pretty expensive.....but it's only money :-)


John

[Stubies]

Whoa! wicked John! I love it!

Try to say this with an Elmer Fudd accent: "World Wide Record Retailers"

;)

I will try it out, load it now !!



http://i1300.photobucket.com/albums/ag89/Jrb1961/image_zps0d64ae75.jpg (http://s1300.photobucket.com/user/Jrb1961/media/image_zps0d64ae75.jpg.html)

Stuart, there is an App for iPad/iPhone etc called "The Vinyl District: Record Store Locator" which does just this.....so whatever city you find yourself in the world you can get a list of record stores in ranked distance from your location (and a map facility).....it's helped me in Germany, Spain, the USA and even in Yorkshire......and it's all free. That is, free but somehow not cheap when it helps you discover that you're staying close to a Vinyl store, in fact it can be pretty expensive.....but it's only money :-)


John

[Stubies]

I just found another site with a lot of record stores listed by location - but the search function is not available (they want you to buy the guide for each city)

However, there is a FREE way to get the info.

Open google, use this search:

records site:http://www.spottedbylocals.com/

Try it, you may be surprised... there are lots of record stores listed, many are not in the Vinyl District.


Can you say "wow, really like finding records everywhere"?
- (the way elmer fund would say it... of course!)

[Rare Bird]

Im in no way shape or form linked to this shop but just happened to "find" it. I spent £35 of my hard earned to try and offer some support. Stu, the guy who runs the shop has a very nice selection of new and used vinyl and is happy to haggle. I got a few quid knocked off a Russian import of Black Sabbath! Please pop in and support him if you can.



He needs more than help!

[Wakefield Turntables]

He needs more than help!

why?

[Rare Bird]

Apart from CD's, theres nothing in there Vinyl wise just re-issues of New stuuf. probably a few dozen second hand LP's

[Wakefield Turntables]

Its a start Andre, guess you cant please everyone. :)

[Rare Bird]

I was in Barnsley yesterday. In the inside market i came across 'Vinyl Junction 24'.. Quite a lot of records but im afraid everything that was worth listerning to had high prices. Looks like yet again another seller had their heads in RC Price guide book. Same really..

[The Grand Wazoo]

This shop is only local if you live in Krakow, Poland but it was local to myself and Mrs Wazoo for a few days last week. Just around the corner from where we we staying, in fact.
I was about to leave the shop empty handed when I got into conversation with the guy behind the counter, about Polish records released during the Communist era there.
He started rushing around the shop, picking up stuff and spinning it, offering recommendations left right and centre.
The upshot was, that we spent a long time there sampling all sorts of stuff that was just not on our radar and we came away with a big old stack of stuff and lighter in the wallet by a mere 50 quid. There are even a few FREE records in the window display - just help yourself!

http://imageshack.us/a/img62/3867/ixbl.jpg

Website (http://www.recordsdillaz.com/) (very) basic!!

[MartinT]

Website (http://www.recordsdillaz.com/) (very) basic!!

That's minimalism taken to a new level!

[Marco]

Thanks to a thread on pfm, I've just discovered this place in Southport: http://st33.wordpress.com/record-shops/open/georges-southport/

I can see me walking out with quite a few carrier bags full of goodies after visiting there!!

:exactly:

Marco.

[johnB]

Just visited the new Rough Trade in Brooklyn, New York. Nice.

http://i1300.photobucket.com/albums/ag89/Jrb1961/2f5aa517-32e2-4afa-8ead-ad5465a376c5_zps0932f83b.jpg (http://s1300.photobucket.com/user/Jrb1961/media/2f5aa517-32e2-4afa-8ead-ad5465a376c5_zps0932f83b.jpg.html)

[MartinT]

That looks good. I wonder if there is a branch in Washington DC?

[Marco]

As interesting as this is, chaps, I think we're forgetting about the word "local" in the thread title! ;)

Marco.

[The Grand Wazoo]

It's always going to be local to someone!

[SLS]

If not yet mentioned,

Alan's Records
218 High Rd, East Finchley, London N2 9AY

Run by .... Alan ... for about 35 years, on his own. Loads of rock, soul, jazz, blues, dance, techno, the lot. Mostly vinyl, also CDs, virtually all second hand.
http://www.alansrecords.com/
Restocks for a few hours every morning, so opens at 11:30.

Stuff piled up everywhere. Great for a rummage.
Always good quality discs, no quibble returns, rarities, good prices and discounts, and turns over a lot of stock, so always something new.
Alan knows just about everything about every disc ever issued, has an infallible stock system planted between his ears and takes orders.
Not sure if he owns a computer (if he does it will be old and dusty), so no online store and I doubt he posts anything. Just lots of local regulars.

Last two purchases, NM copies of Pablo Honey and the Yes album.

YES, MARCO, 5 MINUTES FROM MY HOME

Retrobloke.com used to have a shop 5 minutes the other direction, at least 30 years, closed last August. Overpriced in my book, now online only and deals more in rarities.

Off topic, get most new discs from Tim at What Records, much cheaper than Rough Trade etc, and has lots of specials.

[Marco]

It's always going to be local to someone!

Indeed, however the title of the thread is "Name YOUR fav LOCAL independent record shops", i.e. ones that are local to YOU (where you live)....

I don't believe that you've moved to Poland anymore than John has flitted to Brooklyn!! ;)

Marco.

[The Grand Wazoo]

Well, it's a bloody sight less drifty than some of the thread drift around these parts - the rectal/cartridge interface thread being a case in point!

[Marco]

Hehehehe... Well, that's traditional around these parts :eyebrows:

Anyway, Steven has chipped in with something rather more on-topic (and somewhere us UK residents might actually have a chance of visiting)! Nice one, Steven :)


Off topic, get most new discs from Tim at What Records, much cheaper than Rough Trade etc, and has lots of specials.

Yup - Tim's a good bloke and very customer-focused. I often use his website.

Marco.

[johnB]

Well, it's a bloody sight less drifty than some of the thread drift around these parts - the rectal/cartridge interface thread being a case in point!

Indeed. :eyebrows:

"I'm just popping round the record shop, I may be a while."

[Marco]

Arf... I'm saying nowt!! :eek:

Marco.

[SLS]

Hehehehe... Well, that's traditional around these parts :eyebrows:

Anyway, Steven has chipped in with something rather more on-topic (and somewhere us UK residents might have a chance of visiting)! Nice one, Steven :)

Marco.

Unusual for London, you can park outside - some free and some meters. Otherwise 5 minute walk from East Finchley tube.

For Camden Town, a popular vinyl haunt, try:

Out On The Floor Records
http://www.timeout.com/london/shopping/out-on-the-floor
10 Inverness Street, not far up from Camden tube.
This is second hand records for posh people. Everything immaculate, as new, and discs kept behind the counter. Lots of great posters.
Otherwise, Camden is full of bootlegs.

While I'm at it, found a site listing best second hand vinyl spots in London.
http://londonist.com/2012/04/top-ten-record-shops.php

Alan is 2nd on the list as "Cratedigger's Paradise". No. 1 is Flashback Records.
https://twitter.com/flashbacklondon
Alan does mostly UK pressings whilst Alan tells me Flashback does a lot of imports. Flashback is near Angel tube and Sadler's Wells (my second home - so passes Marco's test), but I haven't been in for ages. Ideal for those in town for a day and loads of fantastic and reasonable restaurants nearby.

[MartinT]

It's always going to be local to someone!

...and when I'm abroad, it MAY be local to me for a period of time.


For Camden Town, a popular vinyl haunt, try:

Out On The Floor Records
http://www.timeout.com/london/shopping/out-on-the-floor
10 Inverness Street, not far up from Camden tube.
This is second hand records for posh people. Everything immaculate, as new, and discs kept behind the counter. Lots of great posters.

Damn, why didn't that exist when I was in Camden Town? Inverness Street was a one minute walk from where I used to live.

[The Grand Wazoo]

...and when I'm abroad, it MAY be local to me for a period of time.

Exactly!
I also interpret the 'local' in the title as meaning 'not a faceless branch of a chain, with staff who couldn't give a toss about their customers, or music beyond their minuscule, blinkered experience'.

[SLS]

...and when I'm abroad, it MAY be local to me for a period of time.



Damn, why didn't that exist when I was in Camden Town? Inverness Street was a one minute walk from where I used to live.

I don't remember it from when I lived around there, 20 years ago. Used to walk across the park to Inverness Street twice a week for my fruit and veg. For those literairie folk out there, was Alan Bennett's abode and his lady in the van, seem to remember he used to pop out to the market in his dressing gown and slippers ... style.

[Marco]

...and when I'm abroad, it MAY be local to me for a period of time.


Lol... Fair enough, and that aspect of things no doubt adds to the overall interest :)

However, as the thread's OP, I can say that the main purpose of it was for members to identify and promote good, local (to where they live) independent record shops, with a view to helping those businesses survive and also to notify others who live in that area of their existence.

As the majority of our membership is from the UK, most people will therefore benefit from the identifying of such shops, either local to their area, or at least within the same country.

However, far be it for me to stop anyone posting their holiday snaps from abroad...! ;)

Marco.

[MartinT]

Summary of local record shops in Basingstoke:

0

[Marco]

Yes, but there's one in another town within a reasonable driving distance from you, as we've discussed before.... You just need to be arsed to make the effort to go there! ;)

I travel all over the place to go to record shops, even though there is one in Wrexham.

Liverpool, Chester and Manchester are my most regular and favourite haunts, all of which are between 30 minutes to an hour away. You can't always expect interesting record shops to be right on your doorstep :)

Marco.

[Kember]

I really rate Les Aldrich in Muswell Hill - mainly classical, some jazz and starting to reintroduce vinyl.

IIRC, it was bought last year by a City lawyer who has a passion for music and he is investing quite heavily in it. He has plans for small live sessions, a listening booth etc. All we need is a milk bar next door and we'll be back to the Fifties!

Peter

[Qwin]

Might be usefull to put all the outlets together in one place so you don't have to trawl the thread?

Could even be put on a spread sheet and the data sorted by post code so you can spot what is local to you easily? :)

[Marco]

That's a great suggestion, Ken, and it would be a real asset for our community. Now all it takes is someone with the ability and time to implement it... Do you fancy having a go? :)

Marco.

[MartinT]

Yes, but there's one in another town within a reasonable driving distance from you, as we've discussed before

Missed point alert! I wasn't saying I don't buy used vinyl (as you well know I do), I was merely commenting on the locality.

The shop you mean is in Reading. I also go to Portsmouth and Southampton for some good vinyl shops. However, it still makes any used vinyl at least a 45 minute drive away, despite my living in a large town.

[Marco]

Lol... I wasn't missing the point, dude. I know that you buy used and brand new vinyl (let's not forget that some of the shops mentioned on this thread sell both).

The point I was making is that even though there isn't an independent record shop 'on your doorstep' in Basingstoke, there's one within easy reach, unless you consider a 45-minute drive to Reading, in a rather nice BMW, as being in some way 'difficult'? ;)

I regularly travel to Liverpool and Manchester, which are a similar distance from me, for vinyl buying trips, as well as simply going out for a meal (if travelling there is worth it)! :cool:

Marco.

[Qwin]

I set myself up for that one Marco. :doh:

I'll see what I can do.

What do folks think about the file format?

Its easy to put it together in excel, and link the file, but does everyone have excel?

To convert it to a multi page PDF may not be straight forward, and MS Word is allways a possibility using the table function.

The beauty about a spread sheet is you can keep adding new info and then just sort the data by column heading, eg post code.

Will have a look at it. ;)

[Marco]

Cool, that's much appreciated. Perhaps you could start a thread about it in Critic's Corner, and thus gauge the interest of the membership?

If the consensus is that it would be of benefit, then I'm sure we'll do all that we can to make it 'go live' on the forum :)

Marco.

[Clive]

I set myself up for that one Marco. :doh:

I'll see what I can do.

What do folks think about the file format?

Its easy to put it together in excel, and link the file, but does everyone have excel?

To convert it to a multi page PDF may not be straight forward, and MS Word is allways a possibility using the table function.

The beauty about a spread sheet is you can keep adding new info and then just sort the data by column heading, eg post code.

Will have a look at it. ;)
I vote for excel, those that don't have it can download openoffice or libreoffice for free. You could do the occasional pdf version for lazy souls.

[johnB]

Are you aware of the "The Vinyl District"?

This iPhone/iPad App will let you know about all Record Shops that are in the vicinity of wherever you are in the world (whether you are at home or abroad!) and importantly provide map/ directions on how to get there.

[Marco]

That's if you believe in the use of 'fancy phones', and carry such devices around with you ;)

Marco (someone who most certainly doesn't do either).

[Clive]

Are you aware of the "The Vinyl District"?

This iPhone/iPad App will let you know about all Record Shops that are in the vicinity of wherever you are in the world (whether you are at home or abroad!) and importantly provide map/ directions on how to get there.
I just looked it up - thanks!

It seems there's an Android version too so it works with the 80% of new phones sold too. :eyebrows:

Plus 70% of new tablets....

Just installed it....looks good and it has the local ones that I know about. Great!

That darned app is going to cost me a lot of money!

[SLS]

I really rate Les Aldrich in Muswell Hill - mainly classical, some jazz and starting to reintroduce vinyl.

IIRC, it was bought last year by a City lawyer who has a passion for music and he is investing quite heavily in it. He has plans for small live sessions, a listening booth etc. All we need is a milk bar next door and we'll be back to the Fifties!

Peter

Les Aldrich is an old school music store and you can have a nice lunch at Kilim up the street - why do I always associate with food ??

Didn't know now stocks vinyl. Must have a look. Thanks

Follow-up
http://www.express.co.uk/news/uk/409647/I-bought-music-s-vinyl-resting-place

There's a man with his finger on the pulse.

... and there is a famous "The Kinks" pub down the road with a Kinks memorabilia/party room - The Clissold Arms - where they first performed. The Indian opposite (Rasoi) is brilliant.

[Kember]

Les Aldrich is an old school music store and you can have a nice lunch at Kilim up the street - why do I always associate with food ??

The Clissold Arms - where they first performed. The Indian opposite (Rasoi) is brilliant.

Steven,

An army marches on its stomach, so should shoppers. No shame in that...

P

[loo]

not exactly local to me (40 mins away by car /train) but this could become my absolute favourite record shop
has this ever been done before and if not why? a brilliant idea
http://www.moonunitrecords.co.uk/
Paul

[MartinT]

What a brilliant idea. That's do-able for me on a day off.