Love That Album

Love That Album 183 - Record Store Memories Part 1

Love That Album

Show Notes

Being music fans (especially of a....ummm...certain age), we've all been in a record or CD store as a regular. I like to think that the best record stores I've been in are like walking into Cheers – everybody knows your name, and will treat you as family, be it dysfunctional or not.

Welcome to episode 183 of Love That Album.

I've been in small family record stores, big impersonal chains where the staff couldn't care less what your musical interests are, specialist record stores, stores run by grumpy guts (if you're in Melbourne, you may remember a shop that was far from paradise under its original owner) and stores run by welcoming staff who want to introduce their favourite bands into your life. Record stores are not like any other capitalist venture on the planet.

Yes, you pay your money and come away with an “item”. Often, though, the interaction with the guy or gal behind the counter is like a meeting of the minds as you discuss why that band's last 3 albums fell below standard of the first 5, or why the album currently on the stereo is by an unknown guy you just HAVE to give your time to. Some stores have been known to challenge customers to walk around naked (it's true!!!), while others will have staff that roll their eyes as you ask for “that album by that guy......you know who I mean....ummm”

I've decided to ask a dozen of my favourite podcasters / broadcasters / record shop owners / people I respect to join me on the show to tell me about their favourite memories of being or working in a record store. Yes, it's an exercise in nostalgia, but that shouldn't be a dirty word in this case. It's an opportunity to talk about a place that makes us happy or frustrated......but it's never dull like a night out at the supermarket.

The first 5 of these correspondents joining me for separate conversations are: David Kowalski – host of The Sound and the Fury Podcast Brett Vargo – co host of Only Three Lads Podcast “Farmer” John Couture – host of the Vinyl Relics Podcast Pat Monaghan – owner of Rocksteady Records Brian Nankervis – co host of Rockwiz and The Friday Revue

All 5 of these fine gents very graciously gave of their time and recollections for your and my entertainment and edification. Download, enjoy, and take comfort in the fact that in 2 weeks, more is coming your way on this topic. I highly recommend you search them all out in their regular ventures...they KNOW of what they speak.

Download this episode of LTA from your podcast app of choice (not Spotify). The wider back catalogue of episodes can also be found at https://lovethatalbumpodcast.blogspot.com

Love That Album is proudly part of the Pantheon Podcast network. Go to https://pantheonpodcasts.com to check out all their great shows.

You can send me feedback at [email protected] (written or mp3 voicemail) or join the Facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/lovethatalbum

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

More from Love That Album

Oct 13, 2026

The early years of rock and roll are remembered (among many other artists) for the hip thrusts of Elvis, the guitar styles and lyricism of Chuck Berry, the song craft of Buddy Holly, the vocal blend of The Platters and the extroversion of Little Richard. Doo wop, rockabilly, rhythm and blues were getting kids excited (and their parents despondent) about popular music. One pair of brothers had joined the rock and roll fray, but saw themselves more as country artists....and despite their youth were already music industry veterans.

Sep 14, 2026

3 years ago, I was rapt to welcome one of the greatest working songwriters in Australia to the podcast, Don Walker. Mostly known for his songwriting and piano playing for Cold Chisel, he's also done two albums under the Catfish moniker, been a member of supergroup Tex, Don & Charlie, and made great albums in his own name supported by his live band The Suave Fucks. What could be better?

Aug 14, 2026

I try to plan my podcasts in such a way that it looks like I know what I'm doing. This is one such episode that may give you pause for thought....

Jul 16, 2026

LTA episodes are not usually filled with stories of soldiers suffering PTSD while on R&R, working women who have to leave their children late at night, mobsters who were guilty of violent crimes, strip clubs, police corruption or the gentrification of Kings Cross…..but here we go….

Jun 14, 2026

There are very few artists who can claim popularity in one decade, then claim it all over again with a new band or approach to music. In Australia in the 1970s, Joe Camilleri was a huge draw with his band Jo Jo Zep and the Falcons. They created a blend of R&B and reggae that worked well, and were a big draw in Australian pubs and concert venues. After the demise of the Falcons, Camilleri started a new band called The Black Sorrows that started life as a Zydeco outfit, then evolved into a blend of Americana, soul and a touch of Van Morrison inspired songs.

See all episodes →