TOP 5 INDEPENDENT RECORD SHOPS IN LONDON
WRITTEN BY JASMINE LEE KENNEDY
With vinyl sales predicted to outsell CDs for the first time since the 80s, it’s a great time to have a look at our list of the top 5 independent record shops in London.
Flashback Records
While they also sell CDs of both old and new, if you’re a vinyl-head looking for something unique – Flashback Records should be your next port of call. Known to be the home of second-hand, musical relics, this place is truly a crate digger’s heaven. Have a rummage through their stock and you will find an eclectic range showcasing the best of jazz, soul, hip-hop, dance and so much more, as well as samples for the producers among you. If you put in the time, you may even be lucky enough to find some of the rare records they’re so famous for.
50 Essex Rd, Islington, London N1 8LR
Sounds of the Universe
With the knowledge that they’re associated with the music label Soul jazz Records, you already have some idea of what to expect at Sounds of the Universe; an eclectic hub of musical ingenuity, with incredible sounds from across the world. Have a flick through what they have to offer, and you’re bound to snap up a wicked selection of reggae, jungle, dubstep, jazz, soul, voodoo, punk and – well, you get the picture. They have so much to choose from, you feel a little like a kid in a candy shop.
7 Broadwick St, Soho, London W1F 0DA
Soul Brother Records
Specialising in funk, soul and jazz, this vibrant record shop is a London landmark for hungry vinyl-hunters. Alongside their exceptional selection of albums, 12 inches and 7s, they have a team of incredibly knowledgeable staff. If you’re not sure what you’re looking for or want to try something new, just chat to them and they’ll be able to get you exactly what you didn’t know you needed. You can really feel their passion for soul music as soon as you walk through the door, so this is a must-visit for anyone of a similar mind.
1 Keswick Rd, Putney, London SW15 2HL
Phonica Records
Situated in the heart of Soho, these vinyl specialists have a mouth-watering selection for you to feast your ears on. Their walls are festooned with the latest releases that you’ll be eager to get your hands on. They’ve created quite a name for themselves in the world of dance music retailers, with walls festooned with the latest techno and house releases, but offer reggae, dub and funk records, too. And, they don’t just sell records – they also have incredible in-store events for those who love a bit of live music.
51 Poland St, Soho, London W1F 7LZ
Container Records
While younger and perhaps lesser known than the rest of this list, Container Records is already one hell of a vinyl haven. Opened in just 2015 by a group of DJ and promoter mates, this cosy shop has now become a go-to for those in the know. Head over, and you’ll find a beautifully diverse selection of records which you can peruse at your pleasure. You’ll find them in Pop Brixton (hence the name Container Records), where they also host events – make sure to check out their next Record Day extravaganza.
49 Brixton Station Rd, Brixton, London SW9 8PQ
WRITTEN BY JASMINE LEE KENNEDY