Looking for vinyl in Van City? We’ve got you covered with these top spots.
Living in an era of digitized music, we can sometimes forget the joy of a physically released musical product. But vinyl records give us the warmth and depth of performances while also giving us a piece of artwork to hold — some album covers are gallery worthy!
If you’re in Metro Vancouver and looking for treasures to play on your turntable (or to decorate your walls), this is the guide for you. From some old-school gems to latest releases, here’s a selection of Van City’s top independently-owned spots for vinyl records.
Quirky, Retro Vibes: Neptoon Records
Whether you’re looking for the latest chart-topper or a decades-old rarity, Vancouver's oldest independent record store is the place to go for vinyl. Since the ‘80s Neptoon Records has offered music junkies diversions such as music memorabilia, books, concert posters, in-store events and its own record label!
Old-school, Groovy Vibes: Vinyl Records
Don’t miss the largest selection of used hip-hop, soul, funk, reggae, rock, punk, new wave, jazz, house, disco, trance, Latin, blues and early electronic records in Vancouver. Vinyl Records was established in 1998 as a small, used-records shop and its staff is super knowledgeable, helpful and passionate about vinyl. There´s over 50,000 records in stock, but it is very organized and every music category has subsections for easy reference.
Music and Togetherness Vibes: Zulu Records
One of Canada's leading shops for new and used CDs and vinyl records, Zulu Records has served music lovers for over 30 years. (It grew out of the ashes of an old store called Quintessence.) Now Zulu is a musical and cultural community center: It hosts in-store events for bands, art openings, book launches, music parties, and more. Don't throw away your old record collection, Zulu Records will pay money for good and clean records. And don´t hesitate to pass by the shop to check out the amazing turntables, amps and speakers on sale!
Indie, Cat-loving Vibes: Red Cat Records
Red Cat is an artist-owned-and-operated record store specializing in LPs, CDs, turntables and a variety of music accessories. It’s voted one of the top 10 indie stores in Canada because of its great customer service and its eclectic musical selection. It takes its name from Buddy the cat, an enormous ginger-haired feline who used to rock around the store. He even inspired a concept album by legendary guitarist Ry Cooder, titled “My Name Is Buddy!”
Funky, Graffiti Vibes: Beat Street Records
Here’s a community hub for record lovers, DJs, artists, and collectors. Located just down the street from the Waterfront SkyTrain Station, Beat Street Records carries ALL sorts of vinyl. In addition, Beat Street Records sells rock memorabilia, T-shirts, graffiti art supplies and DJ equipment. Tip: If you can´t find your record in-store, ask any of the friendly staff and they can look in their back room warehouse!
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