Specialties?
We stock the best in every genre we possibly can. We don’t stick to any one genre as we believe every decade and music genre has its greatness. We like to have something for everyone, none of that silly rock snobbery here.
What’s the history of the store?
It started way back in the late ‘70s as a rebellious, somewhat grotty little import store specialising in punk, independent rock and free jazz. Greville was a dirty little smelly joint whose owners and staff gave their finger to the mainstream then went on to open Au Go Go Records and the infamous Shock records. 35 years later, we’ve expanded and shrunk and exploded into all sorts of strange and wonderful places. We’re still happily grooving along to our own beat.
What have you got on to celebrate Record Store Day?
At least ten per cent off everything, plus Paul Kelly will be singing his songs and St Jude will be performing. Also performing live will be Naked Bodies, and Whale Called Phoenix.
Why are records so special?
Music is the life force of the universe, food for the heart and the soul. It’s always spreading its love and inner peace in a world in turmoil and misery. Music is life and nothing represents music better than a beautiful LP.
Name a record you’d love to get your hands on.
I’d love Lou Reed’s personal 7” test pressings of Sweet Jane and Rock’n’roll. To put the needle on those records and wonder how a young Lou must’ve felt when he heard those records played back at him for the first time.
What’s the most obscure record you’ve ever sold?
Steve & The Board original Australian LP, the only one anyone’s ever seen.
Have you had any good conversations with famous people who’ve been in your store? Who was it with and can you remember what they bought?
Had a zillion of them. Bobby Gillespie is always great to ramble about all things rock’n’roll. We’ve sold Nick Cave lots of Neil Young and David Bowie over the years. We gave Ringo Star some Aboriginal country CDs once. We got along so well with the guys from Hole we ended up in the studio editing some singles with them.
What’s the best thing about Diggin’ Melbourne?
Many readers might not know, but all us record store dudes are kinda brothers in arms. We stick together, we’re all good guys fighting the good fight for rock’n’roll.
