A guide to Melbourne's record stores
Get the lowdown from Triple R's Yasmine Sharaf.
Originally produced and staged by The Vinyl Factory at 180 Studios, ACMI and RISING present Reverb is recently had a run at Melbourne’s ACMI, bringing the exhibition international for the very first time.
Featuring audiovisual works by Stan Douglas, Jenn Nkiru, William Kentridge, Jeremy Deller, Kahlil Joseph, Gabriel Moses, Cecilia Bengolea and Julianknxx, alongside immersive installations by Virgil Abloh and Carsten Nicolai, the exhibition had its very own Listening Room, bringing the intimate records and conversation format to the other side of the world.
Fresh off curating the Listening Room at ACMI Melbourne, Yasmine Sharaf – the host of Triple R’s Cease + Desist – brings us on a journey around her favourite record stores in Melbourne.
I’ve only just learnt that Naarm, Melbourne, has the most record stores per capita in the world, which makes picking only a handful a contentious, hotly debated topic. Naarm is made up of a vast network of overlapping and intersecting music scenes, each with their own record store HQ. Depending on your own interests and genre proclivities, a top five could look very different, but here is a list of my own personal favourites that I keep coming back to time and time again.
Skydiver Records
Operating in Collingwood for the past 10 years, Skydiver is the local DJ’s spot to dig and hang out. Whilst the Japanese-inspired store may be small, its selection is pure class. The store specialises in club culture, electronica, and left-field oddities.
At night, the crates are folded away and turned into tables, as the record store shifts into gear as a bar and DJ spot. A great place to start your night, or ask one of the bartenders for gig recommendations - the musical knowledge behind the bar is some of the strongest in the city. Don’t let that intimidate you; it’s an unpretentious haven for music lovers.
Address: 358 Smith Street, Collingwood 3066 VIC Australia
The Searchers
The Searchers has one of the biggest collections on this list. If you’re looking for something specific, there’s a big chance you’ll find it here, and for a good price. A cosy spot that’s great to get lost in, you’ll find extensive bins filled with everything from Kraut to metal to pop.
Address: 93 Smith St, Fitzroy 3065, Victoria, Australia
Licorice Pie
A cornerstone in Naarm’s music culture, Licorice Pie has been around for over 20 years, recently making the move across town to Collingwood Yards. Whilst their selection is vast and spans most genres, it’s a great spot to find rare releases and classics from the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s.
Their new home in Collingwood Yards is light and airy, and perfect for popping in for a long chat with whoever's working, before a knock-off at Hope St Radio next door.
Address: 3/30 Perry Street, Collingwood, Victoria, Australia 3066
Naturestrip Records
Naturestrip Records may be the newest store on this list, but it’s located in one of Naarm’s oldest artistic precincts, the Nicholas Building.
Built in the 1920s, the Nicholas Building is home to over 200 artists, from studios to galleries, and now Naturestrip Records. The store specialises in experimental and underground sounds, from Musique Concrète to lo-fi pop.
This is the perfect store for picking up something unique and unknown. They also host intimate performances and a micro gallery with some of Naarm’s most beloved experimental artists.
Address: Cathedral Arcade, Nicholas Building, 37 Swanston St, Melbourne VIC 3000
Rocksteady
Rocksteady is a family affair, owned by a couple who have been working in record stores for over 40 years, and occasionally staffed by their kids and adoptive family. Mostly stocking new vinyl, Rocksteady is a great spot to find dub and reggae, alongside underground contemporary Australian releases. It’s a store that feels immediately welcoming, and is powered by their passion for local and independent music. They also host occasional live gigs and record signings.
Address: Mitchell House, 358 Lonsdale St, Melbourne
ACMI and RISING present Reverb ran at ACMI Melbourne until August 31.
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The Vinyl Factory releases Reverb Live Sessions vinyl series
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