For smaller releases, including LPs from mid-sized indie labels (Drag City, Kranky, Superior Viaduct), check out Midheaven Email. The site is operated by San Francisco distributor Revolver USA, which sells to record stores across the US but also sells directly to consumers. Here you’ll find a ton of independent music, including new releases from big names like Devo, Sonic Youth, and The Fall.
Another great independent record store is Amoeba Music, made famous by its incredible selection in many California stores, and its What’s in Your Bag YouTube series. If you want to support a good brick and mortar record store and know what you want, we recommend buying from Amoeba instead of Amazon.
Independent Labels
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Screenshot courtesy of Parker Hall
Record label as Throw the Stones, Small pop, A secret group, Possum oil, Bad business, Dapton, Blue Note, International Anthemand hundreds more both have websites and sell records directly. If you find out that an artist you like is signed to a certain sub-label, chances are that other artists on the label have the same vibe.
Start by checking the liner notes on the back of all your albums to see who produced them, then hunt down those labels on the web. Chances are you’ll find great new songs on vinyl along the way.
Direct From The Artists
We’ve saved the best for last. Pay artists for their work by putting cash—or a Venmo transaction—directly into their hands. Buying records at the merch table when an artist is playing in your hometown is not only good for you (there’s no shipping, and usually tax free), but it’s one of the main sources of income for touring bands. You can often find special editions, special color variants, and even unreleased records by stopping by the merch table. And if you’re lucky enough to meet an artist at a venue, they’ll usually sign a record jacket for you.
If you don’t get many results (we know, concerts are expensive), just search their website, social media page, or record label and order. I have at least a few records with personal and signature acknowledgments from young artists, which feel so special every time I listen to them!
