Denver’s burgeoning music scene is accompanied by a city full of unique and funky Independent Record Stores. Whether it be finding that perfect hard to get CD from a punk rocker, or listening to CD’s for hours before deciding on the perfect choice, Denver’s Independent music stores offer something for everyone.
Twist and Shout
2508 East Colfax Avenue (303) 722-1943
After moving from the longstanding Alameda location, Twist and Shout joined Tattered Cover Bookstore in the revitalization of Colfax Avenue. This place has the best selection of new and used CD’s in the state. The staff are incredibly knowledgeable and can help you find the perfect obscure CD you probably didn’t even know you wanted. Often, bands passing through town will play shows at Twist and Shout, often to be recorded and released later. Widespread Panic, Rise Against, Flobots and Citizen Cope are just a few of the amazing acts that stopped in for a spell. Twist and Shout though a traditional, old school music store isn’t one to let trends pass them by and now offer music as digital downloads from their new site.
Second Spin
1485 South Colorado Boulevard (303) 753-8822
While the company isn’t exactly Independent-and has locations in California as well as Denver, Secondspin.com is the largest purchaser of CD’s and DVD’s on the internet-always handy when rent is due. The store itself has over 70,000 used CDs & 30,000 used movies. If you can’t find what you’re looking for in the store, the web site has a fantastic selection and their used CD’s and DVD’s are incredibly reasonable.
Wax Trax
638 East 13th Avenue (303) 860-0127
Denver’s most classic record store opened 30 years ago and has held a presence in Capitol Hill on13th the entire time, It sets the tone for the surrounding neighborhood and every type of person can be found hanging inside Wax Trax. The place itself is iconic, but the staff features a few of Denver’s own rock stars, and they can tell you everything about music-and they’ll probably try. Wax Trax is a Denver landmark, and worth a stop to find some crazy vintage vinyl or a new CD.
When you shop at any of these places, you will be supporting Denver and it’s artistic community. Record stores have become a dying breed but hopefully one this city will keep alive.
