Who’s on the team at Repressed Records?
There’s me (Chris), Nic (who runs R.I.P Society), Damien the book dude and Saturday Sabina who’s in a band called The S-Bends.
What music do you specialise in?
Independent Australian music and anything interesting from around the world. On vinyl mainly. We prefer championing the underdogs that will have some longevity to them and discovering exciting things for ourselves to pass onto customers.
Repressed is not only a music store, it’s become something of a community hub for the Newtown music scene. What are some of the cool things your staff and customers are up to at the moment?
I’m running the Repressed Records footy tipping comp (doing OK as well) and managing my son’s team. Nic is in bands like Bed Wettin’ Bad Boys, Ruined Fortune and perennially up the front at small shows. We’re thinking of launching a Repressed Records label, but more on that later. Henry Rollins loves us. Did you know that?
How does a record store ensure it can survive in the tough 21st century retail market?
Don’t be boring, and offer something unique and individual. Don’t pay $35 wholesale for single LP records. Get involved in helping local music and have a purpose and vision to what you’re about and don’t compromise on that.
Apart from the music you sell, what are some of the things your customers can check out at Repressed?
We have an excellent range of second-hand vinyl and books and we also stock T-shirts.
What’s been your most in-demand stock this year?
Tyrannamen, Royal Headache as always, Eddy Current Suppression is back in demand, The Drones’ new LP, King Gizzard, Terry.
How are you celebrating Record Store Day on April 16?
We’ll have some exclusive releases for the day (go to repressedrecords.com to check them out). We have three huge import shipments of new vinyl on their way now. Hundreds of second records to go out that I picked up in Japan. A collection of punk seven-inches to go out, both new and second-hand. Some rare second-hand stuff I’ve had stashed away and Newtown Social Club are giving us free beer vouchers to give away if you spend over $50 in here. Beer and vinyl are what dreams are made of.
Repressed Records,413 King St, Newtown.
