The iCrates Magazine: News and insights into the international vinyl scene, including stories, reviews, interviews and the hottest record stores on the planet.
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Record Shops
Encore Records - Ann Arbor, Michigan

Encore Records – Ann Arbor, Michigan

Ranked as one of the top stores in the country by Rollingstone, Encore Records is nestled behind a few trees at 417 East Liberty Street in Ann Arbor, Michigan. The store acts as a cultural hub for those who view records as “little art objects,” like the two down-to-chill owners, Bill and Jim. Known as...
Back Beat Records, Amsterdam

Back Beat Records, Amsterdam

Introducing Dick, Ed and Jeanet of Back Beat Records in Amsterdam… a cosy shop with heaps of character and a superb collection of jazz, funk and soul. Their answers may be somewhat enigmatic, but who cares… they own a shop that was opened by soul legend Arthur Conley. Nuff said, as they say… Please introduce...
Distortion Records, Amsterdam

Distortion Records, Amsterdam

Amo Spay, the owner of Distortion Records in Amsterdam is certainly in the right business. A record collector turned retailer, Amo can now not bolster his own collection by importing records for “the shop”, but he also caters for a city which he describes as having more DJs than regular people. He’s right, DJs aren’t...
Academy Records - Brooklyn, NY

Academy Records – Brooklyn, NY

Part of a number of thriving independent record stores in and around the now notorious Williamsburg corner of Brooklyn, Academy Records has achieved that rare equilibrium of a fantastic selection and knock-out prices. iCrates spent an afternoon browsing in Brooklyn and brought back this report… Please introduce yourself: What’s your name and your position? My...
33 RPM RECORDS BERLIN

33 RPM RECORDS BERLIN

Friendly record store owners tend to be a gem in the crates. With Adem from 33rpm records store in Berlin, Germany you’ve found at least a shiny baldhead. Who else runs an archive system for his undies, but not for his thousands of records? – This man knows his records better than what goes to...
Sounds of the UniverseSoho, London

Sounds of the Universe
Soho, London

Sitting in the heart of London’s Soho, record shop Sounds Of The Universe, also home of Soul Jazz Records and sister labels Universal Sound and World Audio Foundation, for over 20 years has been pushing world wide quality music straight into the core of London’s discerning diggers and collectors. iCrates spoke with Nicole McKenzie, probably...
Supafly Records, Lisbon

Supafly Records, Lisbon

Supafly Records is a landmark in vinyl culture in Lisbon. Knowledge, experience and preaching with its owner Chico, aka Daddy Cheeks
Sweat Records - Miami

Sweat Records – Miami

A giant mural tribute to some eminent musical figures shelters Sweat Records. This record store located at a rough quarter known by Miami locals as 'Little Haiti' holds one the nicest surprises you can find if you happen to be travelling around this vibrant city.
RK Bass - Brighton

RK Bass – Brighton

RK Bass is an independent shop specialised in drum n' bass, jungle and old school hardcore, placed on the first floor of Rarekind Records in Brighton. In the last two years RK Bass has become a reference in the U.K's south east coast for its rare original records, attracting visitors from main cities in the...
OYE RECORDS - BERLIN

OYE RECORDS – BERLIN

Oye Records is probably the most popular record shop for DJs in Berlin. The Oye Team has a deep selection and do the best to drop the cream of various styles. A big selection of re-edits and everything that has something to do with groove & bass to keep any customer satisfied.
The Third Ear, Tel Aviv

The Third Ear, Tel Aviv

Lets go digging in Tel Aviv! Known for its infamous parties, there is a lot of record trading going on in Tel Aviv with occasional record fairs for second hand vinyl on top. If you are looking for rare Israelan records from the 60s and 70s, the Third Ear store is your first address. Please...
Wowsville - Life's Not All About Records But Evolves Around Them!

Wowsville – Life’s Not All About Records But Evolves Around Them!

A record shop! a bar! a cafe! a gallery! a cinema! This address has it all, reflecting the versatility of the modern Berliner, Wowsville can do it all! Alberto Camarasa, the owner has been in the vinyl trade for over 10 years and has now settled in Berlin's fashionable Kreuzberg district to create his idea...