With the unveiling of this year’s releases, it seems that Record Store Day 2018 is right around the corner. The excitement is building with big name artists like David Bowie, Fleetwood Mac and Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds due to receive the Record Store Day treatment this year. Vinyl enthusiasts will be queuing up outside their favourite independent stores on the 21st of April ready to get their hands on the newest exclusive records. However, in the city of Newcastle, those enthusiasts will be spoilt for choice. Newcastle’s booming music scene means there’s no shortage of record stores for fans to choose from. So here is Ride Music’s guide to Record Store Day 2018.
Beatdown Records
Beatdown has been one of Newcastle’s largest and most popular independent record stores for over 10 years. With a healthy stock of CDs, vinyl and cassettes it will undoubtedly be in high demand come April 21st. Importantly, Beatdown also deals in pre-loved records which can be found towards the back of the store. Located on Bewick Street near Newcastle Central Station, it will be a perfect first stop for anyone travelling to Newcastle via train. However, it’s worth noting that the shop has limited disability access, due to a flight of stairs as you come in the front door.
Unit 1, Clarendon House
Bewick Street
Newcastle Upon Tyne
NE1 5EE
Reflex Records
Once again, Reflex is another one of Newcastle’s well established record stores. Reflex has always been a strong supporter of RSD events, going the extra mile to make sure that people don’t exploit the event for profit, limiting sales of each release to one per person.
23 Nun Street
Newcastle Upon Tyne
NE15AG
Beyond Vinyl
Not much is known about the new boy of the Newcastle record scene at the moment, but there are rumours that the store could be opening before Record Store Day next month. There has been increased activity on the store’s social media, so stay tuned there to find out more.
JG Windows
JG windows will be returning to host its 9th Record Store Day as part of this year’s celebrations. Windows mainly deals in its vast catalogue of musical instruments and hi-fi equipment; however, the store also offers a decent range of new releases on vinyl. For musicians and audiophiles looking to get involved in RSD 2018, JG windows is a must-stop.
1-7 Central Arcade
Newcastle Upon Tyne
NE1 5BP
RPM music
The last store on the Ride Music tour is one of Newcastle’s favourites. As well as a big selection of pre-loved records, there are plenty of CDs and beautiful vintage hi-fi components and turntables. This record shop goes hand in hand with Record Store Day, each year hosting a celebration of the new releases. Unfortunately, the pre-RSD party has already been but be sure to check in on the 21st of April when the real party will be starting.
4 Old George Yard
Newcastle Upon Tyne
NE11EZ
For more information on record store day, check out the official Record Store Day website
RIDE MUSIC 