Finding music related to what you have in your iTunes library may be easy. Discovering new bands who make obscure music may be even easier. As it turns out, finding recordings of old or rare performances by artists that are not available on your nearest digital online music store can be just as painless. It requires you to walk, use your eyes and read. To some, this may cause some discomfort and that is why Spina Records is the right place for you.
You will be greeted by just the right amount of incense, friendly and knowledgeable staff, as well as an easy to use labelled system that houses different formats of audio. Cassettes and vinyls from punk rock to jazz and even Johnny Cash are some things you will find according to the staff (Thank you Spina Records for the rhyme <3). At the end of this article I will mention some items that “wow’d” me but for now let us go over the details. They have a variety of vintage radios, t-shirts, retro pins, record players, decor and even more for sale (a small sample shown in the photo above). Spina Records also BUYS and SELLS new or used vinyl. They take credit cards and cash so no prior ATM visits necessary, unless you are into cash that was once in a stripper’s underwear.
I can honestly say that I could spend hours in this shop talking with others about music or just with headphones on endlessly flipping through stacks and stacks of pure audio gold. Do not fear, headphones are not included. The staff plays exceptional music in store!
Last time I visited, I snagged a Nena cassette, the one with 99 luftballons on it. This time, I picked up Bookends by Simon and Garfunkel (VINYL). For $9 it plays very well. There were many things that I wanted to purchase as well. Especially a particular Black Sabbath vinyl encased in a UK version vinyl sleeve. My heart hopes that it is still there in the New Arrivals section.
I wish I knew this place existed when I lived on Division street years ago when I felt comfortable having a record player and an expensive audio receiver in my apartment (sorry Cook/Douglass residents). So please, support this store. I believe it can satisfy the cultural need of New Brunswick for a home away from home for loners, lovers and anyone in between. The most important part of the store is the bulletin board near the entrance. Here you can stay up to date on New Brunswick show flyers, announcements of new albums from New Brunswick bands, and other local music news.
Go and say hi!
Spina Records is located at 25 Easton Ave New Brunswick, NJ 08901
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Spina-Records/929772817050944
Carmen Falisi