Independent shop Attic Records opens in York (From York Press)

Independent shop Attic Records, dealing purely in vinyl, opens in York

12:22pm Tuesday 4th August 2009 in Search By Ron Godfrey

CUE the music – a new independent shop dealing purely in vinyl records opens in York on Thursday.

While music outlets have been closing all over the country, hit by the Internet and the recession, Gareth Hesketh and Alex Fox are launching Attic Records above McLarens hairdressers in Patrick Poole.

They are tapping into the retro craze for music that hisses with nostalgia, from the Beatles and Led Zeppelin to the Rolling Stones and jazz pianist great, William “Count” Basie.

Gareth said: “We want to create the kind of atmosphere where you can listen to records, have a cup of tea and buy…if you want.

“We used to visit Track Records and Wildcats in York but both have gone. A few music shops survive, but nowhere that you can buy 45 rpms.”

Both men have always collected vinyl records, sourcing them at car boot sales and through Ebay and their shop will now boast a stock of more than 2,000 sleeves, including an early pressing of the Beatles’ Revolver album for £30; an early import of a Spencer Davis Group album (£45) and The Who’s soundtrack album from the 1979 film, Quadrophenia (£20).

Amid the beat of Motown and wail of soul, the shop will be run by Alex, former lead guitarist with the band, Surge, which once had the distinction of being supported by Coldplay before it grew mega. He is still known as a talented guitarist on York’s night music scene.

Gareth, whose background is in sales, was planning to make furniture and sculptures for a living.

“I couldn’t get hold of a workshop and then this opportunity came along,” he said.

Attic Records, he hopes, will also be the centre of what is going on musically in the region.

For a start, it will be the sole York seller for the Bingley Music Live festival in September; and will also be selling any big gig tickets for the Duchess, above Fibbers in York.