I've come here now two times after passing by for years but being too busy to stop in. It is crammed inside. Watch your step, and start browsing. When I came in a few weeks ago I was the only one inside and was looking for Queen - Hot Space. Who I assume to be the shop owner knew he didn't have it, but showed me the Queen section and I walked out with The Game. There was also a flyer at the checkout area advertising a record sale going on at USF, so props for advertising other record finding events. Everything isn't here. It's a local vinyl shop that has so much to look through, and if you're into that then this is the record shop for you. It gives me the thrill of thrifting back in 2007-2016, but for records. I walked out with international vinyls showcasing music from Brazil and Nicaragua last weekend, but finding the Thriller album was icing on the cake. I wasn't really looking for it, but there is a Jackson 5 section showcasing many of the Jackson 5 albums and their individual projects. Service - I had great service the first time I went because no one else was there. The second time I went, the service was still good but being that it was busy, he pointed me to the exact locations I could find what I was looking for if it was there. I feel like he really knows his shop, and that in itself is valuable. There are many, many vinyls. They're organized as well. read more

Groove Yard - Hell yeah - Music & DVDs Near Me - Oakland, California

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Groove Yard is a gem. Rick is one of those rare shop owners who makes you feel immediately welcome, and he truly knows his collection. There's always an amazing variety of vinyl to dig through, and the prices are great. Highly recommend this local record store. read more

Oh man, Groove Yard is such a gem!! Get in there!! Went there this morning for the first time and found all kinds of super stuff - I really appreciate that Groove Yard has great music (both hard-to-find and huge selection of other things too), but I didn't feel like I needed to be a connoisseur or expert or anything to fit in, browse around, and find albums I'm excited about. The owner seems like a real nice guy - He pointed me to the section for old time & country and explained how it was organized - This place has way more than jazz, in case you're wondering. I found a bunch of good things, including more local stuff than I expected to be able to find (In fact, right now I'm listening to an incredible Berkeley old time band from the 70s I'd never have known about if not for Groove Yard - totally sweet stuff). Super prices as well - Cheaper than I could have gotten similar things online I think, definitely cheaper than it would have been in other shops, and without the hassle of shipping/worrying what condition its in. Easy parking right on the street next to the shop. In all, a really fun place to pop in - A ton of incredible vinyl, good prices, easy parking. I'd say whether you've just got a turntable for the first time or are a dedicated hi fi listener, this is a super spot. read more

An amazing store and well organised vinyl in large quantity. I was looking for jazz CD's and they are buried and not readily accessible......but worth the effort to sort through things. There is a nice selection of Mosaic box sets both vinyl and CD issues, Rick is a helpful guy! read more

The best jazz record shop in the SF Bay Area! Hands down... This is the place to go to expand your jazz record collection. read more

Although originally born in Oakland and from the Bay, this is the first time I've ever stepped into Groove Yard. This is a jazz record collector's heaven. Wonderful selection of titles. Mainly older stuff, but you'll find new pressings mixed in. You'll flip from a $5 record, to a $500, back down to a $30 in a row. It's organized chaos and I love it. A true OG record digging experience. Rick is a great guy, easy to talk to and more knowledgeable than you. I can't give his spot enough praise. Kid in a candy store! read more

Groove Yard - Groove Records! - Music & DVDs Near Me - Oakland, California

Over the past winter, I sold Rick the very large collection of jazz LPs I had accumulated over about 30 years (ending in the mid-'80s, when I switched to CDs). I was referred to Rick by a friend who had done the same with his collection. Rick went through them very carefully over a period of about a year, in some cases, playing them through before deciding what to pay me. I've been VERY pleased with the way I was treated and what he's paid me for my collection. I'm expecting a check for the last box in the next month or two. Based on my experience, I'd say he's running a first class operation. read more

Stumbled across this place by accident and decided to pop in. A gentleman with white hair was working the store and was happy to point out the various sections. While the store is cramped and 'messy' shopping for records here was calm and relaxing. There's something satisfying about going through rows of records and having to search a little versus having everything curated and placed in front of you at high prices. His prices were reasonable and I left very happy. He also explained that he stands by the records so if there scratches or noise, he will take them back. He was also nice enough to let me use his restroom, which is nearly impossible at a record store. read more

TL;DR: JAZZ HEADS, RARE GROOVE FANS, RECORD COLLECTORS IN GENERAL--GROOVE YARD IS THE TRUTH. LONG LIVE GROOVE YARD. Rick Ballard's Groove Yard, which I affectionately refer to as "Rick's Records" (in reference to Bob's Burgers), is a gem among gems. In a place where record collectors are spoiled for choice--we've got Amoebas and Rasputins and countless other smaller shops to choose from--Groove Yard stands out as THE find. Record collectors know the feeling of finding THE record. Maybe it's that rare album that's escaped you all these years, or a special pressing of a record that has a different version of a song. That special feeling, that air of potential is in every nook and cranny of Rick's lovingly curated shop. "Messy" is certainly one word to describe Groove Yard. Real ones will immediately recognize the mess as an ongoing labor of love. Stacks of unsorted records sit on top of already-sorted records throughout the shop. The visual unkemptness is held together by the blanketing warmth of Rick's sound system, which he uses to play... well, whatever he feels like. Half the time I come here I'll end up getting whatever he's playing. And otherwise, if you've got an album you're on the fence about, he'll be gracious enough to 1.) Give a lil' history lesson about the album and 2.) Put the album on! and 3.) Assure you that if you're not satisfied with the album or it's not playing right, he'll gladly let you return it. Most of why I'm writing this review at all is because I'm unsure how to contact Rick and wanted to thank him for his service to the musical community. Rick, if you happen to be reading this somehow--you're a literal OG of jazz music!!! You don't have to be a player on any of the records to claim that title... The passion you have for the music is tangible and the fact that you've dedicated your life to sharing your joy is something I can only express endless gratitude for. I hope you're doing okay out there. With gratitude, A fellow fan read more

The best jazz vinyl selection in the Bay Area. Rick Ballard,the proprietor, is knowledgeable beyond compare. Groove Yard is located conveniently near Rockridge BART. Recent acquisitions are threatening to bust my record budget. read more

Well, I came in for 45 records he had them in boxes no order whatsoever. We didn't talk at all even though I was the only person in the store. I did find some good records but some were over priced. I bought a good amount of records and asked if he would give a discount, but did not offer any, he said all his records are priced final. Not sure how he prices cause I found some duplicates same conditions marked a dollar or two off each other. You may find that record your looking for, but good luck getting over the boxes and dust! He needs to hire some folks to help him organize his records. read more

Groove Yard - Music & DVDs Near Me - Oakland, California

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Was on a record store exploration trip up from the South Bay and had to make a stop at Groove Yard after reading all the reviews; especially because of all the Yelp reviews talking about their deep jazz selection. Walking in the store, I was completely overwhelmed by the stacks of records on top of records, boxes of records stacked on top of records, and just an enormous amount of shit all over the place. Jazz - I am not a jazz novice and have grown my vinyl collection beyond Coltrane, Miles, Thelonis, Sonny Rollins, Brubeck and all the usual suspects. But, I had very little knowledge about the deep selection in the store and there is no listening station to play any albums so you better have a deep knowledge before trying to buy anything. You need a jazz masters or Phd to appreciate the records in his store...I had to give up. Collectors items - found what looks to be a first pressing of Pearl Jam Yield for $85 but the record and sleeve were not in very good condition. There are more collector items all priced between $100-$125 but they are hard to find in the piles of records and I am not sure these are very good deals. You can jump on Discogs and probably spend the same amount of money or less on a record in better condition. The rock selection is OK but the prices are high for the poor condition of the records. Lots of international music if that a genre you follow. There is no room to get around the store, the records are overpriced, no listening station, and too many records all over the place. read more

I've been buying records from Rick Ballard since I moved to Oakland in the 90s. His store is always full of the best Jazz. Every type of Jazz and good prices. Rick knows Jazz inside and out, and usually most of the records in his store. He does consignment too. read more

Don't be put off by the debris and clutter. This place is legendary and a treasure for collectors of jazz LP's. The owner, Rick Ballard, is the Real Deal, a devoted lover of the music who is generous to sellers of quality records in good condition. Shops like his are rare now and reminiscent of another era. read more

Rick was wonderful to work with, he purchased some of our records & was very knowledgeable!!

One of the best record stores I've been in: 1. Quality Selection - 2. Courtesy - 3. Competitive prices - 4. Listen first - 5. Location - 6. Organization - (Are you serious? Its a record store!) Seriously, I would love to spend a couple of weeks in there helping dude sort 'n stock; my OCD was all kinds of on tilt. He knows what he has and where it all is though. I'm wishing him nothing but the very best. read more

This store is the epitome of the ideal and stereotypical used jazz/classical record store! There are piles upon piles of records stashed in every corner. Maneuvering through the store is quite an experience, sometimes you have to back out to let someone through! It's so much fun to go explore the store and dig through the selection. I had quite a large pull pile. There is such variety and the prices are decent! Plus, the owner guarantees his records. read more

I'm a young one in the record collecting game-- didn't start until I hit college 6 years ago, but one thing I do know: this place is great. I avoided it the first few times I drove by because I thought the name sounded like a DJ supply store, but I finally checked it out on yelp and decided to give it a try. I think to most record-buffs, it's pretty clear I don't know a whole lot about records, I just like jazz and soul and other stuff that I can drink coffee too. But the man at the counter was patient and helpful, gave me some recommendations, and didn't even give me that stink-eye most small record store owners give a bearded 23-year-old like me. Also, they have a really great newsletter/email that keeps you up on local jazz artists, shows and releases. It helped me get my foot in the door of the local jazz scene without making me feel like an ignorant cad. Prices are fair-- but I didn't start collecting records because they're cheap. Selection-- not huge but it's definitely cool. Atmosphere-- A little claustrophobic, but as an audio engineer, that's how I like things. read more

This place reminded me of two stores in Socal, Baggatelle and Goat Hill (RIP). Basically it's obvious that the owner of Groove Yard and the owners of the other two stores collected records for years and really love 'em. However, where Baggatelle and Goat Hill had fair prices, Groove Yard just marks everything up, way up. $40 for a Ramones record that you could barely sell over $10, simply because it was a Ramones records. A ton of dollar bin records priced way too high. I never want to give stores like this a bad review because I like how they are kind of quaint and pretty much outdated. But, this place just wasn't happening for me. However, their Jazz, Soul, etc selections seem to be pretty big and decent. The prices are probably a little high, but if you're into that, this is probably a decent place to check out. read more

Excellent stock. I'd tell you what I pulled, but I don't want you going there. There's nothing for you here. Stick to Amoeba. If I see something you want, I'll text you. Seriously, this is an awesome, small record store that fills a niche. Jazz, soul, Latin and world. This man deserves success. Very knowledgable. Nice guy. Happy to talk about the music he loves. Definitely worth a trip. read more

Tucked into a small store front on Claremont Avenue, from the outside, this store does not look like much. As you approach, you see boxes and stacks of records in the windows and it makes you wonder if the inside will be a mess, but once you step through the door you find very organized and clean aisles of records. The Groove Yard is miles and away the best jazz record store in the east-bay. This is no exaggeration, I have visited just about all of them searching for this mecca of jazz. One of the best selections as well, including more rare and hard-to-find records than I have ever seen under one roof. Prices are pretty fair. The people who own the store know what they have and priced the records accordingly. Expect to pay for what you get. The store clerk was very friendly and we had a nice conversation as I looked through the store-length bins of records. read more

So happy to find this wonderful record store, very fare prices, great stock of jazz, rock, classical and other genres. Kind and knowledgeable owner (importer of ECM, Black Saint, Hat Art). If you are interested in jazz, this is the best record store in the Bay Area. Problem is you will find yourself going there more than you can afford. read more

Absolutely unmatched Jazz vinyl on offer here. Sure, it is not an instantly navigable shop, but when I visited, the owner happily gave me a quick tour around when he saw me rifling through some stacks. This place has been on my list for a long time, and it was just chock full of absolutely fantastic jazz records (many that are not easy to find!!) at very reasonable price. Easily the best jazz-oriented record store in the bay. Check it out! I guarantee your digging--which may be physically required--will be rewarded. Also! He told me he stands behind the condition of all the records he sells, which is sadly uncommon at a lot of record stores. read more

Ehhh, I dig this shop. You can totally be here for a while, not run into another soul, hear what you want, and find some gems. JAZZ/SOUL/ROCK sections are sweet. Butttt...c'mon, $25 for a Lost Sounds record (Black Wave)?! HOW DO YOU KNOW?!?!?! Little high on the price for most everything, but hey, who can blame ya, right. I get it. He's got some Larry Young, he's got a lot of Weather Report. Guaranteed merchandise, so that's swell. read more

An amazing collection of records, both vinyl and CD's. Rick is certainly passionate about this business, and he's one of the last ones standing! This place is a joy to walk in to! Oh- and he also sells my music too : ) read more

My new favorite store for crate digging and artist deep dives. Just walked out with a big stack of classy records, all priced under $5.00 each. The jazz selection is a bit out of my $ range, but I feel like I scored, and so much more to look through many more times to come. The proprietor was very nice and good about answering questions. He was also jamming the good stuff on the store system. Lots of fun, all my purchases are in good listening condition and I will be entertained for days. This is how I want to feel when I go vinyl shopping. Good selection of hard-to-find artists and unusual releases. read more

Worst record store in the Bay. He has tons of crap stacked all over the records and record stacked flat above your head, it's a total mess. All the records were hilariously overpriced and in bad condition. You should avoid this place at all costs unless your a millionaire that likes warped ruined rip off records. read more

This is perhaps the best record store I've ever been to. Truly amazing selection of jazz music. Wow! It's a bit of a mess but the experience of working your way through the stacks is ultimately a very pleasurable as you are met with music you've likely never seen before at every turn. Wow! read more

Easily the best place to go if you're into jazz! Many times, I've come across stuff I have never seen before! Rick(the owner) really knows his stuff and he has helped me pick out selections based on my taste. The condition of his stock is outstanding with sleeves showing minimal wear and the records minimal scratches (if any). I highly recommend Groove Yard if you're into jazz. read more

Lots and lots of original pressings of old jazz, soul and funk records, but mostly bebop jazz. Rare and hard to find Black Note & Soul Note recordings on CD and LP. My buddy sold a bunch of his near mint LP originals there a few years back and the guy gave him a fair price for the collection. A great place to just sift through great recordings with fabulous covers and photography you will never see again (or has been plagiarized over and again). This place used to be on Telegraph Ave. years ago. read more

The Bay Area's only dedicated jazz shop is a must-visit for any jazz hound. I go at least twice a year, and sometimes find a few things and sometimes I walk out with my arms full. But every time, the selection is great, Rick is extremely knowledgeable and the condition of albums is consistently good. There is also a decent little classical and Rock/pop section, but it's largely the opposite of most stores that have a few jazz bins amongst a sea of rock. Here it's a sea of jazz. Pricing is always fair, especially appreciated in an age when anyone with a shingle to hang will sell records at high markups. If you like jazz on vinyl, go! There are also CD's, but the star of the show is the massive vinyl selection. read more

Groove Yard - So. much. jazz. vinyl. - Music & DVDs Near Me - Oakland, California

Better jazz selection than Amoeba and Rasputin. The owner, as others have stated, really knows his stuff regarding labels and pressings. The classical section is organized by label, reflecting the view of a true vinyl connoisseur. All the lps I bought from here are in mint or near mint condition. He always has some Japanese and other interesting pressings. read more

This place is so amazingly odd. It's like a dream you had where you kept finding good records, but in a strange place. The store is messy and has boxes on top of boxes on top of other stuff. The rock records were some of the best priced ones I have seen anywhere. You are expected to literally dig and twist your body to find some things in here. read more

This is what record stores should look like. Piles of LP's over 5 feet high and rows filled so tight that you gotta shimmy by them. Great jazz selections but I also found a wide variety of rare gems. read more

This little hole in the wall is the best record store on this side of the bridge if you are into jazz and the culture of digging. The selection goes deep and never disappoints. The owner, Rick is chill, knowledgable, and humble. Plus he plays great background music, often the local jazz station KCSM. The shop is everything I want in a record store - vintage and dusty, small but dense. I remember when I first discovered Groove Yard I had the same feeling I get when I discover "that one" record. Records new and old pretty much cover the floor to ceiling. It's categorized by genre and artist but then there are piles of extra records all over that add to the treasure hunt. There are great selections from other countries too. I never leave without perusing the crates from Brazil, Africa or Japan. You don't get the tourists you get at Amoeba or Rasputin and prices are fair, unlike some of the new shops popping up on college ave that charge an arm and a leg... Just saying! Shout out to Groove Yard one time. read more

If you're looking for great Jazz LPs, whether they are rare releases or more common stuff, this is the best place to find them in the Bay Area. Rick is a hands-on owner, who can answer all your questions with great knowledge. The records are fairly priced; those that say otherwise really don't know the current market. There's a great section with three dollar Jazz LPs. Grooveyard does carry other types of music and a few CDs. I'm never disappointed. I only wish my budget allowed me to buy more great music here. read more

Great record store! The owner, Rick is extremely knowledgeable and good people. He's helped me dig up a couple of records I came in looking for. Always fun digging through the bins there. I always come away with something. Reasonable prices and great quality on anything I've purchased there. read more

A record store for the serious collectors. Absolutely killer stock in a chaotic environment. Be ready to move boxes, jump stock and get your hands dirty. The upside is reasonable prices and fantastic finds. If you like jazz this is one of the best the places you could find. There are a handful of honest record shops in the Bay Area (should check Dave's too) which still offer great finds for reasonable value, Groove Yard is one of them. read more

I dig this place for jazz vinyl. You can often make some good finds, though prices can seem a bit high for stuff that seems not-so-sought-after. For the sought-after-stuff, prices seem fair (especially given the dying nature of record shops as businesses), and based on condition. read more

This LP store is a gem. Rick, the owner, is super helpful and knows a ton about jazz. If you want to hear a record he will put it on the house turn-table for you while you continue to browse. read more