Record Store Day, marking its 18th edition on April 12th, is a global celebration for vinyl enthusiasts. This annual festivity draws together collectors, DJs, and music aficionados, offering exclusive releases and intimate performances. Nemo Ripoll and Castro Moore from Sound Metaphors noted, “For us, every day is Record Store Day,” echoing a sentiment many record store owners in Berlin share.
With over 90 record shops, Berlin is a vibrant epicentre of vinyl, representing 20% of Germany’s total stores. The city has evolved as a prime destination for record hunters, with its distinct variety of genres. Just near Boxhagener Platz, one can unearth 7″ soul singles at HHV, find dub classics at Blessed Love, explore second-hand techno at Audio-In, or delve into alt-post-punk at Bis Aufs Messer — and that’s just scratching the surface.
Diverse niche shops attract collectors from around the world to legendary places like Hard Wax and OYE Records. Berlin’s landscape isn’t solely about new records; it’s also a treasure trove for collectors and second-hand finds. While some beloved stores like The Record Loft have closed, places such as Power Park and Bikini Waxx persist, along with various vendors at Sunday Flohmärkte.
Only a handful of shops including Coretex, Bis Aufs Messer, Dodo Beach, and HHV are participating in Record Store Day. This rarity isn’t detrimental, as the day emphasises exclusive collector’s items that may diverge from the unique selections at niche stores. Moreover, influxes of casual shoppers may not align with the needs of shops primarily serving DJs.
For record enthusiasts like myself, a visit to HHV for Record Store Day transforms the space into a haven of discovery. However, the staff at Sound Metaphors remind us that with so much to explore and enjoy, every day in Berlin feels like Record Store Day.
Record Store Day, taking place on April 12th, unites global vinyl lovers through exclusive releases. Berlin, housing over 90 record stores, showcases a wide range of styles and collector items. Despite only a few shops participating in the day, its diverse record scene ensures that each journey into its stores is like a special event, echoing the sentiment that every day feels like Record Store Day in Berlin.
Record Store Day serves as a vibrant reminder of Berlin’s rich record culture, where each corner holds gems waiting to be discovered. Despite the limited participation of certain stores, the city continues to thrive as a unique haven for music lovers, boasting a diverse array of shops carefully curated for various tastes. Yet, the essence of Berlin lies in the everyday magic of visiting record stores, making every day feel like a celebration of vinyl.
Original Source: www.the-berliner.com
