If you haven’t noticed, vinyl records have been making a very strong comeback over the last few years. The advent of audio cassettes, compact discs, MP3 files, and streaming music services decimated vinyl record sales over many years. However, collectors, purists, audiophiles, and electronic dance music artists, among others, can be credited with making this medium popular again.
Record Store Day will be celebrated on Saturday, April 22nd, and it marks the tenth anniversary of this international celebration, which was conceived in 2007 by a group of independent record store owners and indie music labels. Most record stores around the world take part in the Record Store Day celebrations, which include special offers, limited releases, workshops, live music, food tastings, and appearances by musicians who appreciate the warm sound of vinyl records.
If you rent or own real estate in downtown San Diego, you’re in close proximity to the majority of San Diego’s hottest record stores. Here are 5 shops you should consider visiting if you’re planning on enjoying Record Store Day in San Diego this year.
1. Normal Records
Located in the North Park district on 30th Street, between Howard Avenue and Polk Avenue, Normal Records fills the void left by the closing of the legendary Off the Record. The major focus of Normal Records is on Southern California punk and alternative rock from the 1990s until the present day. However, a more eclectic collection can be found in the used records bin, which offers plenty of rarities and 1970s classic rock albums. Local bands occasionally play live sets when they put out a new vinyl release.
2. Red Brontosaurus
Quite a few members of the Millennial Generation are fans of vinyl records, and stores like Red Brontosaurus in North Park exist to cater to this demographic. There is a major focus on all the various styles of punk. However, the huge catalog of used records spans across all genres. This store also carries used CDs and video games.
3. M-Theory Music
This amazing Mission Hills record store is tucked between Goldfinch Street and Ninth Avenue. This should be your first stop in San Diego if you are a fan of alternative and indie rock from the 1990s on. Surprise live performances by local bands also happen on occasion.
4. Folk Arts Rare Records
Located along El Cajon Boulevard near the 805 freeway, this cozy store in North Park specializes in folk, country, and New Age music, particularly rare records and limited issues. The sections dedicated to funk, soul, and R&B are perfect for hip-hop fans looking for music to sample.
5. Record City
This Hillcrest musical institution is located on Sixth Avenue near Evans Place. The store owners and staff are very friendly and extremely knowledgeable. This is clearly reflected in the store layout and organization, which is very genre-specific. Instead of having to thumb through all of the bins alphabetically, you can head straight for the music you are into. For example, 80s New Wave gets its own section next to disco, punk, techno, old school rap, and others. The $1 bargain bins at Record City are legendary among jazz record collectors.
Being close to awesome record stores is just one of many reasons to consider buying a condo in downtown San Diego for sale. There’s always something exciting going on downtown, whether it’s at one of the many nearby clubs or restaurants, the Embarcadero, the convention center, or many other locations. Get in touch with 92101 Urban Living to find out why you should consider an urban lifestyle in downtown San Diego. Call 619-649-0368 today. ')}