Cosmic vinyl

All photo credits to Faye Deetsch

Cosmic Vinyl, a new record store, originally operated in Echo Park and also had a vegan cafe, but unfortunately had to close in July 2024. Luckily, they were able to re-open in Eagle Rock, finding the perfect location, fitting in with the small businesses in between Transport Skate Shop and Vidiots. The outside of the store features their very own neon sign, and they even have the 1980s arcade game “Centipede,” adding to their retro vibe. 

The layout of the shop is pretty simple. They have three long rows where you can find LP records, cassettes, 45s, their arcade game, and vintage t-shirt collection. The store is square shaped, very easy to navigate, and decorated with albums on the walls. If you're looking for anything really specific that you can’t find, they have super nice and dedicated employees that are always willing to help you out. 

In addition to records, they also sell audio equipment, cassette tapes, and music memorabilia, including vintage concert/music t-shirts, which are on the pricier side but definitely worth checking out, as well as “audiophile-grade stereo gear.” Now you might be wondering, what exactly does audiophile mean? After a quick google, I came up with the general idea that it means to be obsessed with things sounding good or of high quality. They also buy from other people, they don’t just sell. They will buy things like high end amps, stereo gear, speakers, and also records of course!

I was able to get an interview with an employee at the shop, named Kat. Kat loves working at Cosmic Vinyl because she’s always loved music and because of all the music discoveries you can make just by browsing. When I inquired about future plans for Cosmic Vinyl, Kat said that the owner, Oren, had a lot of ideas for ways to incorporate and bring in more of the community into the space. They are thinking about trying to start showing live music as well as events like comedy nights. Additionally, they have also had a pop up event, where a coffee business set up a booth outside their store and helped them gain more attention, and supported both businesses. 

Whether you’re into records or not, I highly recommend checking out Cosmic Vinyl. There is always a lack of physical media and music in our world today, and so one way to help keep it alive is to support small businesses like them. Maybe there’s one specific artist that you haven’t been able to find a record for at any other shop, or maybe you just got a brand new record player. Either way you can find some really amazing tunes to listen to physically, and support a small business! Next time you swing by the shop, make sure to play “Centipede” for free, and maybe you’ll win the new high score - or take your parents, and discover music that you can listen to when you’re together. Either way, be sure to stay in tune with Cosmic Vinyl to see if they have any possible events soon or pop ups! 

Sources:

The Cosmic Vinyl