A NEW SPIN ON VINYL AND RECORD STORES – DISCOVER JM RECORDS, THE CITY’S INCLUSIVE, INDIE VINYL SHOP

James: “I’m local to Exeter, and my love for music was always there, but during the pandemic, I started collecting records.

Like many, I had a lot of free time during lockdown. It all began with a throwaway comment on my birthday, and before I knew it, I was gifted a record player.

From there, my passion spiralled. I started importing records unavailable in the UK, particularly from the US, and JM Records was born.

Initially, it was a hobby, but by September 2021, I opened my shop, and it’s been an incredible journey ever since.

James: “We specialise in importing unique vinyl records you can’t typically find in the UK. Many of our records come from the US, and we pride ourselves on offering exclusive colours and limited-edition sleeves.

An example would be how Taylor Swift often presses different album variants for the US and Europe, and we stock the US versions that aren’t available here.

We also offer pre-loved vinyl, cassettes, CDs, and music merchandise, and we partner with ‘Spincare’ to provide vinyl cleaning materials and protective sleeves.

For me, it’s about the whole record-collecting experience.”

James: “Visitors can expect a warm, welcoming atmosphere and a range of vinyl, from pop and rock to rarities.

I also like to do things differently. Many record shops will traditionally promote or play the rock genre first. I am a huge pop and RnB lover., so there is a strong focus on these genres, and they are displayed at the front of the store. People sometimes forget that records don’t always have to be a particular genre or from a specific time in music history. Here, the two worlds merge.

We’re also a social place. Music always plays, and customers love to chat about their favourite artists and records.”

James: “We love supporting the local music scene. Our poster section in the shop features upcoming events, acting as a noticeboard for local gigs at the venues.

I’d encourage local venues and artists to always drop by with their posters. It’s an ideal way for visitors to discover new bands or catch a gig while they’re in town.’’

James: “Independent stores like this one rely on our customers. We’re not backed by big corporations like HMV, so every sale keeps us going.

But importantly, when you shop with us, you get a more personal experience, and we try to keep our prices lower than the big chains. Plus, it’s always fun to pop in for a chat or a wave, even if you’re browsing.”

James: “One of my favourite memories was selling my first record: a beautiful blue marbled Aretha Franklin Hits collection. It went to an online customer who shared a photo of it on Instagram. It was such an incredible feeling to know that my little shop was reaching people across the globe.

James: “Record Store Day is huge for us! It happens twice a year, in April and November. We get limited edition releases from major artists like The Rolling Stones and Britney Spears, and once they’re gone, they’re gone.

National Album Day is coming up on October 19th and is also a big event. This year’s all about celebrating British bands and the release of special editions from the likes of Take That and All Saints.

James:  It’s got to be ‘Please Stay’ by Kylie. Because I really want the shop to stay, and my customers too!