Canadian Digs – Adventures in the North Part 1: Edmonton, Alberta

As a digger and collector, I’m always excited to check out record communities in cities across the globe. Canada was no exception. This spring, I set out to see what our northern neighbors had to offer. Without a doubt I was 110% blown away by the record community. The people and selection of vinyl was second to none!

My tour began in Edmonton Alberta and I was not sure what to expect. When I rolled into town I had nine shops on my visit list. What I found was priceless!

EDMONTON, ALBERTA

Day 1

Listen Records– Vinylhub | Website

Address: 10443a – 124 Street, Edmonton, AB T5N 1R7

Phone: 780-732-1132

Email: listenrecords@shaw.ca

Listen Records in Edmonton has been touted as the spot to hit since 2001. If they don’t have the hard-to-find items on your wantlist, they’ll do their best to get it for you! The shop was jam-packed with new releases, a decent used selection and assortment of legit gear. The staff was preparing for RSD but still took the time to chat me up. Selections range from Funk & Soul to Experimental & Avantgarde. My only regret was not snagging the For the People 7 set while I was there…. (this will be a recurring theme throughout my journey).

Great shop with a cool vibe and knowledgeable staff!

Record Collectors Paradise– Vinylhub | Website

Address: 11004 150 St NW, Edmonton, AB T5P 1S1

Phone: 780-757-3414

Email: recordcollectorsparadise@ gmail.com

RCP features one of the largest selections of Jazz, Classical and Country (although I came up on some funk, soul and Disco) in this region. At first glance, I was taken back by the wall of 45’s and vintage items on display. This shop organizes their selection in a way that makes digging very easy. After spending 2 hours talking with the staff and sharing our mutual love for modern funk I left with a few gems in hand.

*Whenever I buy Sade 45’s I always chuckle to myself about the shop owner in San Fran that argued with me about the fact that Sade did not have any releases on 45’s :).

Day 2- RECORD STORE DAY

Let me preface by saying that RSD for me personally is about supporting the local shops so I’m not the lady on the prowl for those “limited” releases BUT I am someone that will always show my support for those that are slingin’ records 365/247.

Blackbyrd– Vinylhub | Website

Address: 10442-82 Ave, Edmonton, Alberta T6E 2A2

Phone: 780.439.1273

Email: info@blackbyrd.ca

First view of Blackbyrd….. In the full swing of RSD. I’ll be back!

Upon my return the line had lessened slightly. Crossing the threshold meant free donuts and coffee if you so desired (Tim Hortons of course). This shop had a modern feel with bins full of new releases. Nevertheless there was a selection of used records near the back. I scoured the bins and was rewarded with a something that I’ve had my eye on for while. I was not going to leave without it.

Towards the front of the store you could find a pretty decent selection of gear (TT, Cartridges, sleeves etc..). It’s important to note that the staff were super cool and engaging. I had the opportunity to speak with a few people in the community about the local shops and it was apparent that BB is a strong supporter of the local music scene and is very well respected. Kudos to the team! You can also check out their Calgary location.

Freecloud Records– Vinylhub | Website

Address: 10764 101 St NW, Edmonton, AB T5H 2S3

Phone: 780-429-1476

Email: glotex@moderndigital.net

This was the shop I had heard rumblings about prior to my trip so I was definitely interested in seeing what was up. What I encountered was a small line of vinyl enthusiasts out front. I chatted up some cool dudes that were there to pick up some of those limited releases. When I made it inside, my first impression was – this shop specializes in rock. I was quickly proven wrong. They have an amazing funk & soul section, their punk game is on 10. They also have jazz, hip hop, classical, pop– you name it. If cassettes, CDs or music mags are your thing they have you covered. I have to say I was really impressed by the sheer volume of records they had in stock, In addition, their grading and pricing was spot on. Super happy to leave Freecloud with a copy of “Soul Sister” in my hand.

The Gramophone Inc– Vinylhub | Website

Address: 7913 104 St NW, Edmonton, AB T6E 4E1

Phone: 780-428-2356 | 800-231-7594

Email: info@gramophone.ca

Okay, so not the traditional stop on my list, but I had heard so much about the audio systems and turntables at Gramophone that I had to stop in. I am SO glad I did! I had the privilege of chatting with Bryan about their shop and he gave me the full tour and showed me some of the most artistic looking turntables I have ever seen.

This spot would make any audiophile salivate. If you’re in the market for new gear or want to check out the largest selection of classical and jazz recordings in Alberta, this is the spot!

EROC- Vinylhub

Address: Super Flea Market Booth 118 12011- 111 Avenue Edmonton AB

Phone: 780- 459-9112

This gem in the wild is a must see. I always try to stop by flea markets or antiques shops when I’m traveling because you never know what might turn up and this was no exception. I consulted google and found the Super Flea Market and since they toted themselves as “Super” I thought I would give it a go. I walked all the aisles and saw no sign of any of those wax beauties and then I rounded the last corner and in an almost lighted glow I saw the sign EROC Records. YES!!! I proceeded to spend the next 2 hours talking with the owner Terry and his wife about their shop and his lengthy history in the industry (formal interview to follow so stay Tuned!). About halfway through our visit he casually mentioned that he had a backroom… when one hears those words… the pulse starts to race in hopes that you will gain entry and come upon some secret stash of goodness. I spent the last portion of this stop in a narrow backroom combing through his shelves of 80’s & 90’s dance music.

I left EROC thinking this is what it is all about… individuals like Terry that give their life to the love of music and sharing that passion and knowledge with others. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with me. If you find yourself in Alberta DEFINITELY hit this spot up!

Edmonton Music Collectors Show – Vinylhub | Website

Address: Central Lions Seniors Recreation Centre 11113 113 St NW Edmonton, AB, Canada

Phone: 780-423-0120

Email: info@yegmusicshow.com

To borrow a line from the folks at the Swap “The Edmonton Music Collectors Show is definitely a place to add to your record collection, but it is also a place to network with other collectors, gain insight into the value of your own collection, and celebrate music culture.” I could not have said it better myself. I attend fairs and swaps year round and I can honestly say that this event was one that will remain in my mind forever. This particular group of dealers and attendees truly celebrate the community aspect of collecting. I was amazed by the perfectly curated selections, the knowledge of the dealers and the true passion that shined through in all my interactions.

George Gawlak and Dave Chorley, two of Edmonton’s leading independent record collectors came together in 2011 to create the EMCS. Due to the hype and popularity around this event they have switched to a twice a year format in order to bring more opportunity to the vendors and collectors in the region. Not only do these gentleman support their local community but they also support other organizers and events across Western Canada. These guys are the real deal and it was an honor to witness them in action!

Next up… Vancouver BC. Stay Tuned!



