Stock up in South Australia
The continued resurgence of vinyl sales is not only a great thing for music lovers, but also a lifesaver for record store owners who found themselves facing an uncertain future with the advancement of the online streaming era. This is especially true for the small yet thriving Adelaide music community, with the City of Churches boasting some of the best record stores in the country. So next time you’re passing through, be sure to check out our favourites below.
Streetlight Adelaide
This is much more than just a record store. While there’s a great selection of vinyl and CDs on offer – particularly for those who love a good soundtrack – Streetlight Adelaide also stocks a wide variety of literature and film. There are loads of rare novels, vintage records and music docos scattered around this sleek operation, with the friendly staff always happy to give advice, order in stock or just have a chat.
Find Streetlight Adelaide at Shop 2/15 Vaughan Place.
Big Star Records
Having been around for over three decades, Big Star Records has been a constant in the ever-changing Adelaide music landscape. Totalling six stores across the city at one stage, there’s now just one; though it remains a staple amongst vinyl lovers. A throwback to a simpler time, Big Star has a classic rock vibe with old music posters plastered on the walls and rows of new and secondhand vinyl snaking its way around the store.
Find Big Star Records at 160 Magill Road, Norwood
Rerun Records
Rerun Records is the place to go for those looking to secure good condition secondhand vinyl and hard to find records. The majority of stock hails from your parents’ era, but you can also find popular new releases from modern acts like Maggie Rogers, Weezer and Hilltop Hoods. Owners John and Johnny are great blokes and always on hand to offer assistance and help you navigate the thousands of vinyl crammed into this cluttered yet inviting shopfront.
Find Rerun Records at Shop 32 & 35 Renaissance Arcade, 128 Rundle Mall, CBD
Mr V Music
Many local record stores collapsed with the rise of the internet, but Mr V Music persevered thanks to a loyal clientele and owner Vic Flierl’s dedication to providing the Adelaide public with all their vinyl needs. Pre-owned records are the big drawcard, with Mr V serving as the perfect place for crate diggers trying to find that one-off or special edition record.
Find Mr V Music at 115 Semaphore Road, Semaphore
Clarity Records
Owned and operated by local legend Matt Horvath and his wife Laura, Clarity Records is hands down Adelaide’s best record store. Catering to all genres (including a huge selection dedicated to punk, metal, prog and rock), Clarity also sells a wide range of music memorabilia, from band tees to music biographies and live concert DVDs. Horvath is all about spruiking Adelaide talent and, with a dedication to the Aussie music scene, Clarity contains one of the best selections of local and national vinyl you’ll come across.
Find Clarity Records at 60 Pulteney Street, CBD
