“The sound quality is just better, bro.” I’ve heard this classic hipster quote about a million times, and every single time it’s just as pompous as the last. I’m really not sure if it’s true or not. I feel like the importance of the sound system you have far surpasses whether you’re playing music via analog or digital, but who knows, I could be wrong. Condescension aside, though, the hipsters have a point. Point blank, records are badass. There’s something truly remarkable about owning what feels like a very real piece of your favorite artist. Call it materialistic all you want, downloading just doesn’t compare if you really love music. Lucky for us, Rochester is an incredible city to live in for album enthusiasts.

Rochester’s Record Archive is a nationally renowned record store. It was established in 1975 and is the very first record store in the North East to have a full-time wine and beer license. This allows shoppers to enjoy a beverage as they peruse the store’s MASSIVE selection. Record Archive’s 13,000 sq. ft. venue is filled to the brim with so much more than just records, though. They also sell clothing, toys, furniture, CDs, DVDs, and more. Yet, the most valuable asset of the store is intangible. Record Archive has an ambiance unlike any other record shop. Its organized chaos and rich history are unmatched, and are truly what make it a Rochester staple.

Similarly famous to Record Archive is fellow Rochester landmark, The House of Guitars. While The House of Guitars doesn’t boast quite as expansive of a record collection, the store makes up for it by adding an unparalleled array of instruments to their docket. The House of Guitars was founded in 1964 and quickly became popular not only in the U.S., but worldwide as well. Music artists from every corner of the globe have flocked to the local epicenter, and even sign the walls of the building to mark their voyage. Where Record Archive is proudly described as organized chaos, The House of Guitars is even prouder to be described as just chaos. Finding what you’re looking for feels damn near impossible, but the thrill of the chase and random discoveries to be had along the way make it far past worth it.

If chaos of any form isn’t your thing, have no fear, Rochester has plenty of more traditional record stores as well. Needle Drop, Bob Shop, and Hi Fi are all great options, just to name a few.

If you’ve read through this whole post shaking your head because you would never in a million years be caught dead with a record, that’s fine, but please do me one favor… just go to one shop. Any one, it doesn’t matter. The setting of a record store is something that needs to be experienced. And I swear, once you find a copy of your favorite album, and hold it in your hands, bearing witness to the amazing cover-art like never before, I promise you, you will change your mind.