This is a very difficult review to write, and I do so with the best intentions for this small store. The owner, Dave, is a nice guy. But this store has problems that I sincerely hope he resolves.
First, I'll say what I like about this shop. Despite being a small shop, Discology has a very high "value density" in its vinyl records. Almost every record in the store is highly deserving of a loving owner. The records are always in great shape. Anytime you walk in you can be sure to find something you'll want to take home--and at a good price.
Secondly, the (hopefully constructive) criticisms. Vinyl records have made a comeback, in part, because they offer the music lover a chance to interact with their music in deeper, more engaging ways, beginning with the experience of going to the ol' record store. The owner will even go on at length (he's very friendly and engaging) about how the kids these days are missing the experience of record shopping. Yet at the same time the owner makes absolutely no effort to ensure a positive experience for his customers, especially new foot traffic.
- The first thing that happens when you walk in is you get barked at by his small dog. And I don't blame the dog. The dog is clearly a timid little animal, but he has it sitting out in the middle of the main hallway, completely exposed. Of course the poor thing gets afraid 30 times a day when a new face walks in.
- Record store experience? Not here. The lighting is all gross, blue fluorescent that makes the yellow tile look awful. There is no music, no posters on the wall, no artwork, no flyers for local bands and events, no t-shirts, no nothing.
- The place is a mess. There are almost always boxes and storage bins in the main hallway (and the whole place is only a single, narrow hallway). One time there was an old computer from like the '90s in the stack. The last time I was there a young woman was trying to look through the CDs but could barely reach them because she had to reach over boxes of crap.
- His CDs, DVDs, and Blu-rays absolutely suck. While his vinyl record inventory is fabulous, his digital content selection is terrible. While he actively chooses his vinyl inventory (and he has good taste), all of his digital stuff is sold on consignment for other people. Meaning, the first fact about his CDs is that somebody doesn't want them. I've tried and tried to find a nice new CD to take home but compared to his vinyl selection it's just sad.
In conclusion, I really want this place to succeed. When I go downtown for some fun on a weekend or on a date with wife, I really want Discology to be part of the event. But the place is so uncomfortable and awkward that my wife doesn't want to go in. This place has a lot of potential and a lot going for it, including but not limited to a great location and a great record selection. The dog is sweet when it realizes you aren't going to eat it. The owner is a nice guy who doesn't talk down to you, as is often the case at other local record stores. I want this place to be here for a long time, but unless he gets his act together I fear that it won't be. read more