Off the record: Leeds
Now you’ll inevitably be prioritising record shop giants Jumbo and Crash records, but this is your opportunity to break further afield to newer haunts to sift between some LPs.
Wall of Sound - 35 The Headrow, LS1 6PU
Whilst this may not directly be Crash Records (we promised we would refrain from mentioning them) Wall of Sound does sit within their basement. Operating since 1986, the owner Elliot Smaje’s pure love for music and living and breathing records for nearly 40 years will guarantee that you’ll be receiving the best music knowledge within the city. Here you will find a comprehensive stock of second-hand and rare LP’s with the aim to constantly keep things fresh. It really is a vinyl lovers' paradise.
Tribe Records - 28 Kirkgate, LS2 7DR
Leeds boasts an incredible electronic scene and it is only fitting to have Tribe Records perfectly serving it. Now a staple for any lover of house, techno, dubstep and disco music, Tribe has firmly asserted itself as the champion of underground dance music within the White Rose City. They stock a huge variety of absolute gems from across the globe to get your ears stuck into. One thing that is a certainty when stepping through their doors, is that you will be greeted by an abundance of proper bangers to thumb through.
Vinyl Whistle - 12 Otley Rd, LS6 2AD
Former Premier League referee Jon Moss has amalgamated his two passions - football and vinyl - to create Vinyl Whistle. Yep, you read that correctly. The bloke who owns this shop is also one of English football’s best known referees. The shop oozes his personality and has a relaxed atmosphere ringing throughout. And Jon’s also managed to squeeze his football memorabilia in there too. While there’s a variety of genres expertly served up here, Vinyl Whistle mainly specialise in Jon’s preference for 80s and 90s indie. But this only scratches the surface and there is plenty more on offer than what meets the eye. Throw in coffee, beers, live events and an open deck night and there is plenty to keep you gripped to one of the finest establishments within Leeds.
Meanhood - 10-14 Stonegate Rd, LS6 4HY
Meanhood is the absolute definition of a hidden gem and a proper treasure trove for carefully curated tracks. This underground record shop stocks a wide range of genres from grime, hip-hop, bass and techno. There’s an eclectic plethora of records within their racks which are pretty difficult to find anywhere else. To really make your hunt worthwhile, cocktail bar Number 8 operates above them. Come for the vinyls, stay for a bev… a match made in heaven.
