Hipster Mecca. Come here for new vinyl, not for the old stuff. They have all the hip, indie stuff on brand-new, in the package, hot off the press vinyl. Come here for indie stuff. If you want to get that look that says someone has recognized your coolness for requesting The Fireman (look it up if you don't know. I mean it) this is the place. The people who work here are super-helpful, super-knowledgable, super friendly and have super-powers (one of these things is not entirely true). They are so in the loop that it makes you feel really cool if you stump them, like let's day you walk in and say "Hey is that Tim Seely album out yet?" and they say "Who?" and you get that look like "I got you bitch, I got you!(playfully of course)" then they give you that look like "oh man you got me!" Then you give them the Mentos smile and elaborate "The dude from Actual Tigers." On a related note I am really awesome. They offer to order anything you can't find. My one complaint is the way the used CDs are set up in the tiny cubbies up top makes it hard to scan them but it is a small complaint for such a charming place. read more

Solid indie store. I will have to return again and again to properly peruse and appreciate all the vinyl. Used selection is awesome, and I don't think I saw any crappy music in the place. Gaga, Bieber, Spears fan? Not the place for you. You have some taste? Make your way to Stinkweeds. read more

I'll continue the broken record (get it? BROKEN RECORD. MUSIC STORE. I suck.) and shamelessly laud this place. Being consistently behind the times, I only found Stinkweeds last week (and that was only due to Yelp- Thanks Yelp!). I'd been quite frustrated going into big box stores only to find copy after copy of Fergalicious, but no indie rock to speak of. Stinkweeds is a fresh breath of musical air. Lesser known bands, discount used copies, workers with great suggestions. I'll drive the 30 minutes to go here. read more

I want all of Stinkweeds in my pipe dream 100 terabyte iPod. ACHTUNG: Venturing into this store will make you buy CDs of bands you'd never even heard of. You have been warned. read more

Update: Unfortunately, the Audio-Technica LP60 turntable I bought was defective as the aluminum platter is warped, and they weren't able to refund or exchange (I also called the manufacturer and they wanted to charge to repair). I have to say I'm disappointed with their return policy. That said, they do have a pretty good selection of indie vinyls. read more

I've known Kimber for nearly 20 years now - I've been shopping at Stinkweeds forever... started at the Mesa location and then followed it to Tempe. I've been introduced to all sorts of music here. This store will always be a part of my growing up. I had a live show at the Tempe location once (sang for Seven Storey Mountain)... I was nervous as hell and even forgot some of the words. It was like performing for family. It has been ages since I've been to the Phoenix location, but I still feel like it's a distant relative of mine... like a really cool eccentric young aunt that had me stay over at her place for a weekend and taught me about life and gave me beer when I was still too young. Knowing the people who own it and work there, I'm sure it's just as clean and cool and awesome as the other locations have been. Thank god for all the independent record stores of the world. Thank god for Stinkweeds. This is the sort of place that gets young people interested in music. This is the sort of place that inspires and creates new musicians. Without independent music stores like this supporting independent musicians and independent publications and independent shows and independent thought, music would simply be a corporate product meant to fill space between commercials. If your interest in music is more of a passing fancy than a passion, then this place may not be for you. If you like shit that isn't typically on the radio, then you'll love this place. On a side note - Dave B's review was amusing, but linking to a site suggesting people steal music instead of buy it is bad form. Independent music exists in part because of stores like this. I'm my parents and it's better to shop at Best Buy or iTunes or to steal music than to shop at a cozy little friendly non-chain record store? read more

Stinkweeds is the real deal record shop! Local, indie, underground, staff that knows its biz. Great store and I am sad that there is only one location left. Hopefiully, it can stay around in these days of music purchasing being an afterthought to the download. Nothing quite like hanging in a record shop checking out stuff and listening to the picks of the clerk. read more

So I walk in and start talking with the guy behind the counter. I'd meant to drop in, pick up the new Regina Spektor album for my Papa as a surprise, and pop out. While we were talking, I mentioned that I was specifically looking for something ambient to play while I worked.. but I had to get to dinner in fifteen minutes. He said that, if I felt comfortable leaving him my iPod, he'd look through it and get some albums together for when I got back. When I came back by, he'd pulled probably a dozen albums and a few vinyls. He went through each one, explaining why he pulled it and describing the album's sound. I wound up buying the vinyl of Grizzly Bear's Veckatimist, which is still one of my favorite albums of last year, and constantly on replay, and perfectly fit my requirements for ambient work music. This place is all about the customer service - if you ask, and you're willing to put in a little time and effort, expect to leave with some awesome, perfectly-chosen music. read more

What is this silver disc thingy in this plastic box?? Yes, it's weird to walk into a record store these days. An actual record store how novel! I am so used to downloading music that I forgot how visceral of an experience shopping for records can be. Stinksweed's still has actual vinyl albums of new and old releases, and a good selection of CDs to make even the most avid music fan entertained. The place is chill and has listening stations set up all over so you can hang out and check out different albums. You won't fell rushed, it's super laid back and you are able to peruse at your leisure, regardless of your musical tastes. Overall this place is excellent, it's just hard to pay more than 9.99 for an album. I know CD quality is better than mp3 or bit torrent downloads, but still the idea of reducing the packaging and costs to ship physical disks is always a plus in this 21st century "green" economy. I do hope places like Stinkweed's will always exist, I just can't see the record store model being supported much longer, as companies cut production costs, physical music media will go the way of VHS tapes, and 8-tracks. I try to pretend, when looking at a record in it's pristine sleeve, what it was like to walk into a record store in the 60's and see the new Beatles or Velvet Underground or to finally get the British release of Joy Division's Closer in the US markets in the early 80s. It was a simplistic time where shopping for music was more personal, and the music store was a place to hang out like any other bar, coffee shop, or local cafe. Being part of Gen X, I remember record stores, and I miss them. Long live the record store! read more

Stinkweeds shaped my formative years. Really. I started shopping at the (now gone) Tempe location when I was 15. I had a few older friends into independent music who introduced me to this record store. I begged my parents for rides and, when that wasn't happening, hopped on the bus for the hour-long trek. Totally worth it. 100%. I can't tell you how many awesome bands I began listening to just because I would browse the selection endlessly for something that looked interesting. If I needed something specifically, Stinkweeds would order it for me if they didn't already have it in stock. The staff was always welcoming and helpful, sometimes offering their own suggestions. But it's just a record store, right? Wrong. Stinkweeds is the jewel of Phoenix, as far as I am concerned. Now that it's out in central Phoenix, I make it in far less. Total bummer! read more

Probably the best independent record shop in the Phoenix area. I used to go to the Tempe location quite often, but this newer (and now only) location is as great if not even better... There's a small stage area for in-store appearances, and their selection has something for everybody. The staff is also really knowledgeable and not at all snooty like you might expect them to be. LONG LIVE STINKWEEDS! read more

I love Stinkweeds. Everyone loves Stinkweeds. Let's be honest though, it's a little bit of a scene. There are regulars and the staff is cool. If you're not so much a regular then you might feel a little uncool. But don't let that stop you - strike up a convo with anyone in or near the place and you're immediately going to start feeling like you belong. I haven't ever been disappointed as I tried to find new cds or vinyl, and they have tickets to most of the shows that you'd want to go see. Just bring cash for those tix, friends. read more

Record stores that carry used stuff generally struggle with the balance of massive inventory versus organization. Stinkweeds has found a balance which I think works for them. Or at the very least, for me. The used vinyl isn't massive, but more importantly, its right up my alley. As aging indie rock pseudo hipster, I struggled with not buying the whole store. Plus they have all the new releases I could ask for. I literally picked up 4 different albums and walked around with them, each time saying 'Yup, this is the one I want,' only to change my mind again. Prices were great, staff friendly, and if you a burgeoning or veteran music snob, there's something here for you. Plus you can see it from the light rail! What more do you want? read more

I feel kind of badly for going against the grain, and maybe I had the cashier whose cat was run over that morning, but I felt a little off here, like, not worthy. I did end up getting hooked on Feist thanks to the killer and easily-browsable selection, and now she's a dirty Apple sell-out! Woo hoo! read more

I never buy music, ever. NEVER EVER. That's from anywhere. Because of my love for all things free I didn't even bother to check prices or really look for anything specific here. I just wanted to pop in & get a feel for the place. Seems cool here, I guess. The people working there just let you walk in & do your thing. They don't really talk to you or even look up much unless you get their attention. My friend asked if they had cassette tapes. The girl at the front said they have a very small selection. Pretty much nothing my friend would be interested in anyway probably. Way to sell it there lol I asked if they even had a restroom. The whole place is itty bitty. She pointed to it while saying it was pretty gross. Was it really gross, or did she just not want me to use it? I didn't push the door open to check. I got my feel for the place. Why would I need to come back here? read more

I got introduced to Stinkweeds Records in Tempe while I was in college, and was blown away. Up until that time, I was buying my music at the Memorial Union, and was blown away by their knowledge. Stinkweeds is simply the best place to enjoy music. As I got into records, and finding smaller, lesser known, indie artists, punk bands, and underground rappers, I discovered Stinkweeds. They were able to discuss the artists that I liked, and recommend others. Unfortunately, I don't buy much music any more and stick to the internet for most of my finds. But every now and again, I will pop my head in to see what is going on. Look at a few records, and talk a little underground music face to face. Unfortunately, record stores are going by the wayside, so support your local experts and keep them in business. Yes, you might pay an extra couple of bucks for a cd then you would for the digital version online. I know. It's painful, but they appreciate it, and so will you. Tell me the last time that someone at Best Buy or Barnes & Noble dropped a no-name band on you that you were impressed with. My guess is never. read more

I've been meaning to go here for a LONG time. Finally made it this week and I took along my little brother who is a keen aficionado of all that is new, hip, cool and whatever other term kids are saying now days. At 18 the world is his oyster and music is his thing. That said, Stinkweeds was a big juicy slice of heaven. Great for him, and extra "cool big sister" points for me. Entry to the place is from the back - which gives a pleasantly different impression than the front. When we went it was a bit of a problem to get back there as the opening in the construction for "Business access" had been blocked a bit more than it should have been. Word to the wise - if you miss it, just park next door and walk on over. While you are walking, relish the fact that not too terribly long from now there will be a light rail stop across the street. My brother was quite excited by the prospect. Entering Stinkweeds I was immediately shocked by how small it was. Really shocked. But then ya look around and realize they have almost an entire wall of listening stations. For a spot this small to invest in that is really a testament to how they value and know their customers. In the hour or so while we were there we saw several groups of people go right to them listen to several selections and then walk up to the register with their purchases. My brother and I meandered around the place. He went in alphabetical order, front to back. I went right for the Paste station. Stinkweeds in the only spot in Phoenix with a Paste station, and as I am a huge fan of Paste magazine, I was really excited. (Review within a review: Paste is an awesome magazine about music, movies, pop culture, video games, books etc and in each edition they include a cd with new and cool music. The Paste listening station allows you to hear more by the same artists that are covered in that month's cd. And the cd's always rock. Stinkweeds also sells the magazines, including those cds, in the back. They even had some old editions which really helped me when looking for some cds.) I couldn't find an artist I was looking for, went to the counter to ask about it and I was told how easy it was to get. She took down my name and number and said she'd give me a call Wednesday when it came in. Presto. She was very nice. I left with 2 cd's, and one on the way. My brother left with 4 - but he wanted even more. He was excited for some used Spoon he found. Used Spoon. Reminds me of an old Korn joke. Anyhow, I highly suggest the place. Visit regularly, visit often. Update: She called when the CD came in and left a message. I never returned her call because I got busy, or always forgot, or some other lame excuse. Almost a week later I finally made it there. The CD was still behind the counter with my name on it. Oh yea..... read more

See all

This is my favorite place to find my music on vinyl and CD's, buy concert tickets and just to even chat about music. Everyone who works there is knowledgeable about what comes in and even know about the new projects going on in the music scene. If you can't find something, they are more than willing to help without an attitude and can even reserve / order items for you. This is also my first stop on Record Store Day in April, they are the only ones with an awesome bag give-a-way with new music and band swag for FREE! I am so glad there are still stores like this that I can call home to and better yet I was at a concert at the Rhythm Room and saw Lindsay the store manager there. Good to see that everyone who works there keeps up with the music scene. : ) read more

One of my business travel habits is picking up records in different cities to add to my collection at home. My recent trip to Phoenix was very brief, and since I had been to Zia before, I decided to hit up Stinkweeds at about 7:30 on a Friday night. Initially confused by Google's directions (the lot/entrance is actually in the back), I was pleased when I found it. Although the place isn't huge, the selection was extremely well-curated. I did not initially see what I was looking for, but a valentine-edition Karen O 7" caught my eye, and I ended up taking it home. The super friendly guy working there (I forget his name, although he introduced himself) asked me if I wanted anything in particular. After telling him, he reached into some hidden bottom storage and managed to produce two out of the three records I wanted! Everything was quite well-priced and I had a great time browsing the rest of the collection. I left with a smile on my face and I know I will definitely return when I am in town. Long live Stinkweeds! read more

Stinkweeds, my love of you has lasted decades. You had me at "autographed copy of 10,000 Maniacs' In My Tribe" back in 1992. Regardless of the fact that nearly everyone in the store when I go is younger than that record, I still love you. Santa missed one thing on my Christmas list - Foo Fighters' Sonic Highways on vinyl. I know I could order this online from Amazon for $21.36 including shipping. I looked. But, I think buying vinyl online lacks soul. Stinkweeds has soul. Here's how shopping at Stinkweeds goes: Walk slowly through the records. See the name of an artist. Hold your breath. Lunge at the records. Flip furiously. Find Sonic Highways with the New York City cover. Gasp. Cheaper than Amazon. Gasp again. Embarrass husband by shouting across the small store. Of course, sometimes the above scene ends differently where the artist tab is there and nothing by that artist. Then you hear a slow sad trombone noise in your head. But, it makes you want to come back every week just to see if, by any chance in heaven, there should one day be a record in that slot. They have a great slection of rare albums, interesting bands to discover and always something playing that makes you have to ask the person at the counter who it is. Nice people, solid prices, great selection, even been vibe. read more

I love me some Stinkweeds! A small store that I can spend so much time in. Its the small local places like Stinkweeds that can give a girl some sanity when living in this hot desert. read more

Stinkweeds - Music & DVDs Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

By now, I've purchased something at pretty much every outlet that sells records, new or used... That includes Stinkweeds, Tracks in Wax, Revolver, three different Zias, Bookmans, Rockzone... And I have to say, Stinkweeds is easily the best place to buy new vinyl. That is, if you're into indie rock. They basically cater to the hipster crowd, but that's OK, because I like some of that music. If you're looking specifically for used vinyl, head elsewhere. Actually, just go right across the street to Tracks in Wax. That's not to say they don't have any good used records; just last Saturday, I found some nice copies of Born in the USA and Adrian Belew's "Lone Rhino." Sweet! And that's not even hipster music! This is a good place. If you're one of those people who, like Dave B., were apparently abused by a hipster as a child, you may not enjoy the vinyl records plastered all over the place, or the local music section. As an added bonus, there is a candy store next door, where you can buy a Cheerwine or Gale's Root Beer. Mmmmm! read more

Super cool local vinyl shop! Easy going staff and will order if they dont have something.

Remember the good old days when you could go Stinkweeds in Tempe next to Pita Jungle and see a band perform live, just hours before it was to take the stage at Marquee Theatre? Seeing Camper Van Beethoven play live at a local record store is what stands out to me. Then patrons even have the opportunity to chat with the band as they pack their gear. That's simply unheard of. Even Kimber, the owner, told me of the days when the store had a location in Mesa and sold a bunch of vinyl. Now, thanks to the ipod generation and illegal downloading of music, all we're left with is the Phoenix store. The Camelback store has a great collection of obscure music you won't find in other stores. The store also has band stickers you'd be hard pressed to find on the Internet. I believe Stinkweeds is what Hoodlums aims for but Hoodlums gets local bands to perform there and their selection is far more mainstream. Worth the drive to central Phoenix to find, say, that German synth pop EBM band that Best Buy will never carry. read more

Stinkweeds is a great local shop. You will find a larger selection of music at other local (and larger) shops but Stinkweeds is well worth a visit. The used vinyl and CD selection is decent and they're happy to order anything they can for you. This is a must stop, along with Revolver, if you purchase vinyl and/or your musical taste runs deeper than Lady Gaga, Katy Perry or Green Day. Stop by if only to possibly expand your musical horizons or to keep your hard earned dollars circulating in the local Phoenix area economy. read more

One of my favorite records shops in the world. Amazing staff with great recommendations. I am usually good for 3 or 4 visits while in Phx. Anymore would be stalking. I always find incredible used items, hard to find new items, and great releases from bands I had not heard before. Not only do they hook me up with boxes to either ship records home in or just protect them. You usually get a smile too. Never a problem. Did I tell you I love this shop? I am writing this review while drinking coffee from my bitchin' new Stinkweeds coffee mug. Yay! Another thing, I am a former indie record shop owner. Cant wait to come back. read more

I've been a long time customer and friend of Stinkweeds. I think Kimber Lanning is an amazing person. Truly genuine! I played some of my first shows (back when I played in local bands) at the old Tempe location. I love this place. read more

Absolutely my favorite record store in Phoenix. I get a great vibe everytime I step in here. I used to be very particular to Zia, but I find that this record store has a much better selection and there's definitely a collective respectfulness from other browsers which (thankfully) means less people in my close proximity practically breathing directly into my mouth. read more

Stinkweeds - Music & DVDs Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Lots already written here, so I'll cut right to the chase. You want music? You want Stinkweeds. Kimber is awesome! And, that's the way she runs her store. The only reason I dropped it a star is the funky road to the entrance. read more

Very nice little shop! They had exactly what I was looking for at the best price. Staff was helpful and friendly and I even found a few nice little surprises. I would definitely recommend this shop to any fan of new independent vinyl or any music lover who just want to spend an extra few bucks in a nice comfy little place. I wish they had more of an avant garde/new music section but hey, I wish everything could be perfect. This place is just fine in my pretentious little book. read more

A great little independent record store. Anything that is not a chain I can stand behind. They have a decent selection, especially the college/indie stuff. Not a lot in the way of hip-hop or rap or other genres and imports. They carry both new and used as well as DVDs and videos. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable. I do have a hard time finding things I am looking for there sometimes, but more often than not they have what I seek. read more

As far as indie record stores, this is truly as good as it gets in the valley. It is a breath of fresh air because it is a REAL record store, and you can sample CD's along the wall to get your music fix. I love how they have a list of recommended new releases. I definitely refer to them if my music is getting stale. Recently, my husband and I have bought albums from Beirut, Andrew Bird and Iron & Wine. They have everything your heart desires- so go and get you some! OH- and I just found out you can buy concert tickets there, and they usually give out a free "Magnet" magazine with each purchase. Woohoo! read more

Do you fancy yourself a music snob? Then this is the place for you! If you can find it at Target, you probably won't find it here, which is why I love it. Within the confines of the four tiny walls lies a treasure trove full of obscure, independent and local bands that you won't find anywhere else. The listening stations are great- i've fallen in love with many new bands this way. I love Stinkweeds. If I visited as often as i'd like to, I'd be living in a box. But hey, I'd be in a box with a kick-ass music collection. read more

Stinkweeds is a great place to listen to new albums, browse old albums/musical publications, and see what evens are coming up in the area. Although it is on the smaller side, this place is record heaven. I haven't bought a CD in years until I came to this place. The staff is extremely friendly and will help you with whatever you need. Note: sorry tranceheads, you won't find a vast selection of this genre. :( however, take the opportunity to browse some new beats. Overall, if you've got some time to kill, or need a unique gift, head to stinkweeds. It'll be a great experience all around. read more

Good selection of new and used records. Well curated and organized. Friendly service too.

While in town, I was told to make sure I hit this place before leaving. Glad I did. I would describe the place as boutique, with a small selection of hand-picked pieces the friendly staff stands behind. You'll notice that all the pieces are cellophane wrapped. I asked about this, when there's no play grading markings outside, and was told I was welcome to open anything I wanted to see for myself, and the ones I did looked great. There were markings on stickers for warps if present, and ones with some small scratches were marked "rough". Otherwise, count on a clean record that hasn't been bumbled around by unknowing consumers. I got a couple Steve Martin standup albums, two Rush (finally!) albums which had just arrived and been priced but not yet set out (at $6 and $8), and a number of others which ranged from 1.99 to 5.99. The other prize grab was a Who double album (The Kids are Alright) in amazing condition for $6. Score. I have to add, however, that anyone looking to wheel and deal is going to have to go somewhere else. No dollar or discount bin, and no haggling at the counter whatsoever. I gave a Sting album back I wasn't sure I needed anyway so I would make it with the $55 I had in my pocket. Still exited with somewhere on the order of 15 good albums. Definitely worth the stop, friendly staff and quality pieces here, no tenderized vinyl here. read more

I came here about an hour before closing thinking that would be enough time to look through the store but I was totally wrong! When it was time to close, I wasn't really finished but ready to leave anyways but one of the employees was really chill and said I didn't have to rush out, and even stayed behind to help me pick out my first turntable and give me a quick lesson on how it works. I could really tell he loved both music and his job, and I wish I remembered his name so I could give him a shoutout here. Anyways, I had a really positive experience and I'll definitely be coming back soon! read more

Stinkweeds - Turntable, vinyl record, - Music & DVDs Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Best record store in AZ, hands-down. The staff really cares and will help you with anything you need, including pre-orders, indie exclusives, rare records, promo swag, everything. This is a true music lovers record store. read more

New music mostly, but very eclectic. Incredibly helpful staff. If they were in Cali they could be a legit namesake.

This is one of those instantly lovable record shops for consumers like me, with a healthy vinyl selection, a large bin of local artists, and several aisles of CDs. The music DVD section was decently sized and had some choice titles, and there was even a small book section. The clerk was a real cool, knowledgable guy with lots of local recommendations and some choice advice about other stores to check out. I don't know if this store would appeal to record collectors (the vinyl wasn't that rare) or mainstream buyers (no pop albums either), but to the indie record store lovers out there, Stinkweeds is a cool spot to visit. It's worth noting that the complex it is attached to has some swank stores as well, this is more than a one-stop shopping area. read more