
Perth’s Best Record Stores
Wax on, wax off.
Dada Records
One of Perth’s – if not Australia’s – longest running independent record stores, entering Dada’s is like walking into a slice of history. Operating since 1971, and in its current CBD location since the 80’s, Dada’s has remained unchanged for decades – including Rob sitting behind the counter. Except, of course, for the constant influx of new stock. Boasting one of the southern hemisphere’s largest record collections, with both new releases and second hand vinyl, you’ll leave with your arms full of old favourites as well as new discoveries.
Photo by blueapocalypse.com
36 Pier Street, Perth
The Record Finder
Speaking of crate digging… the crate digger’s mecca might just be The Record Finder. Another long-established vinyl dealer that’s been operating since 1966, this is where to get that hard- to-find vintage title or browse their collection of second hand cassettes. You might pay a premium, but for a one-of-a-kind find, it’ll be worth it.
43 and 87 High Street, Fremantle
Mills Records
In what turns out to be a theme for this list – Mills has been around for yonks. Like, truly yonks: since 1945 to be precise. Staffed by an impressive roster of Perth music personalities, you need to make sure to have a chat to whoever’s behind the counter. No matter your taste, they’ll find you a hidden gem.
22 Adelaide Street, Fremantle
Noise Pollution Records
Helmed by local muso Maurice Flavel, Noise Pollution is a pocket rocket of a store. Packing in thousands of records – mainly second hand, but some local and new releases, too – into their William Street store, it’s impressive how orderly it is. If you’re looking for a retro bargain, their $5 bins are always being replenished with obscure and fun titles.
280 William Street, Northbridge
Safari’s Record Shack
On the hustling and bustling William Street, and sharing a shop space with florist Beans and Bunches, Safari’s is a real delight with a funky flavour. Specialising in funk, soul, jazz, disco vibes and more, a chat with owner John is a requirement – he’s a walking encyclopaedia. These guys also don’t take commission on local releases, so you know if you buy a local record, their money is going straight to the artist. Legends! Even if you’re not looking for a record, it’s worth stopping by to say hi to Charlie – the newest addition in the legacy of beautiful shop-dogs (RIP Bobby).
312B William Street, Northbridge
Rhubarb Records
Family operation Rhubarb Records has quickly made a name for itself since its humble beginnings in 2014 at the back of the now-defunct Player One in Northbridge. Expanding to an East Vic Park store run by Liam, and a Leederville store and cafe run by his brother Dylan, these guys will hook you up with everything from new and used vinyl, to cassettes, turntables and more. Stop in for a coffee at the Leederville cafe or the new store inside Local & Aesthetic, or suss out their Facebook for upcoming in-store gigs.
Shop 5/851 Albany Highway, East Victoria Park
Local & Aesthetic, 769 Beaufort Street, Mount Lawley
18B/663 Newcastle Street, Leederville
Diabolik Books and Records
In spite of being predominantly a book store, Diabolik has a tidy selection of records available. Spanning across genres from jazz, psych, disco and everything in between – as well as a great selection of special edition soundtracks, and super helpful staff, to boot. For the real crate diggers, drop by on Saturdays for the second hand sellers set up out the front of the store.
149 Scarborough Beach Road, Mount Hawthorn
Urban Records
Audiophiles need look no further. Urban Records is home to not just an enviable collection of fresh new-release vinyl, but declare themselves the home of WA’s biggest selection of record players. With brands like Pro-Ject, Audio-Technica, Marley, Crosley, M-Beat and Rega, they’ll sort you out no matter your budget or style.
117 Oxford Street, Leederville
Highgate Continental
Record connoisseurs will need no introduction to Highgate Continental. Stocking unique musical finds and esoteric books on art, design, culture and more, this is the destination for everything cool and interesting. They’ve closed their retail space (for now!) but check them out online.
Junction Records
Whether you’re looking for something brand-spankin’ new or a pre-loved gem, Junction Records has a huge selection across a range of genres and formats. Local legends and international imports, cds and vinyl – it’s easy to while away an afternoon here searching for something unique.
Shop 48, 27-35 William Street, Fremantle
Replay Records
It’s hard to miss Replay Records, with its iconic retro signage standing out amongst the Royal Street street scape. Established in 1989 by collectors, the family business is a haven for collectors – with an astronomical selection of old and new vinyl that traverses just about every genre imagineable.
5 Royal Street, Kenwick
Good Vibrations
Perth’s newest record store, Good Vibrations is indeed bringing some much-needed good vibrations to West Perth. Begun by a long-time record collector, the store is all about supporting and promoting local artists – though you’ll still find a tidy selection of pre-loved vinyl.
Shop 3/1251 Hay Street, West Perth
Shari-Vari Records
Another new addition to the Perth record store scene, Shari-Vari specialises in ambient, experimental, house, techno, dub, reggae and outernational styles – rare releases, hidden gems and iconic sounds abound. As well as their online store, you can pick up a limited selection (as well as click-and-collect) from the suitably stylish Man-tle in Northbridge.
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Header image: Safari’s Record Shack