With music and modern technology, we have seen the popularity of vinyl rise and fall and rise again.
For record collectors, touch can be as important as hearing a song. Holding a physical copy of a favourite song, can take collectors back to a special time or place.
I’m not sure about you but I love exploring the ins and outs of the local independent record store when I visit a new city. There is something about the feeling of a record sleeve that has made its way though generations. We are now learning to keep our hands to ourselves, so how will this affect record stores?
The Coronavirus pandemic has caused closures across the world, and Record Store Day has now been postponed for a second time. The independent titles will now be celebrated on 29th August, 26th September and 24th October.
It isn’t all bad news – our favourite record stores are working hard to bring your favourite anthems, old and new, direct to your door.
Manchester – Vinyl Exchange
Vinyl Exchange opened in Manchester in 1988. It is now the largest seller and buyer of rare and second-hand CDs, records and DVDs in the north-west of England, with an increasing global presence through their website.
Located at 18 Oldham Street, at the heart of Manchester’s rapidly expanding Northern Quarter. You can support the brand by ordering from their online shop: vinylexchange.co.uk.
Vinyl Exchange, 18 Oldham Street, Manchester, M1 1JN
Bury – Wax and Beans
Wax and Beans is Bury’s only independent record store. Selling new and used vinyl, as well as hot and cold beverages, fresh cakes and snacks.
The store is offering free contactless deliveries in its local area. To see if you are eligible, visit their site at waxandbeans.co.uk.
50 Haymarket St, Bury BL9 0AY
Vinyl Tap – Huddersfield
Vinyl Tap is a UK based online mail order record shop, who also has a high street shop in the centre of Huddersfield. Specialising in rare, deleted and promo items. With an extensive stock of 7″ singles (45s), LPs, 12″ singles, CDs, videos, posters, limited editions, picture discs, imports, t-shirts and memorabilia.
You can browse through the classics at vinyltap.co.uk/.
Vinyl Tap, The Old Chapel, 31 Chapel Hill, Linthwaite, Huddersfield, HD7 5NJ
World of Echo – London
Named after Arthur Russell’s 1986 LP, World of Echo, the store buys and sells new, used and rare vinyl – including early electronic music, krautrock, noise, EBM, punk, post-punk, industrial, jazz, art rock and DIY” as well as London imprints.
Support the knowledgeable business at worldofechomusic.com.
128 Columbia Road, London, E2 7RG
X Records – Bolton
The team at X Records are working behind the scenes to make sure all new releases, limited editions and rarities are getting listed through their website as normal.
On top of this they will be reopening with a brand new basement layout and refurb.
Don’t miss out on their listings, visit xrecords.co.uk and buy that vinyl today.
Future is Vinyl – Cumbria
Known for their electric beats and tasty treats, creativity is the force in this Cumbrian record store.
Keep the future vinyl with a purchase from their online store futureisvinyl.co.uk.
Vinyl Café – 44 Abbey Street Carlisle, Cumbria, CA3 8TX
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