Founded in 1988 and now owned by Four Winds West, an organization supporting at-risk young adults, Bedrock Music & Video is your local resource for purchasing all types of music and renting DVDs. It has a good selection of new and used music and makes special orders twice a week if there's ever a title you're looking for that they don't already have in stock. Bedrock Music & Video has hosted live music events, including a performance by Michael Franti, and is hoping to have more events like this in the future. For DVD rentals, new releases are $4 for two nights, and stock titles are $3 for 5 nights (prices as of 2011). To learn more about Bedrock Music & Video, please visit their website or stop in to check it out in person.
Newbury Comics is a popular chain of comic and entertainment stores located throughout the New England area. This large store is located on the Boston Turnpike in North Norwood and features famous brands of comics, including Marvel and DC, as well as a good selection of independent comics. Collectibles and toys are also available, including brands like Star Wars and Todd McFarlane. There is a big music and movie department as well, featuring a wide variety of major and independent selections.
Armadillo Music, located across from Posh Bagel on F St., is a locally-owned music shop that provides its customers with an eclectic selection of all genres of music. The shop isn't large, but makes the most of its available space, often with an outdoor display, weather permitting. Armadillo has vinyl and cds, with a selection of DVDs as well; most of the DVDs are used. Not only does Armadillo Music sell its wares, but it is open to buying/trading used material from the public as well; they only ask that you bring your ID when you do so. The store also sells its own shirts!
As downtown Red Banks largest music store, Jacks sells new and used CDs. They also sell sheet music and musical instruments and offer buy-back services for your used CDs. Their staff is knowledgeable and offer their assistance for buying gifts and new music.
The Record Man's inventory of LPs, 45s, and 78s is practically unmatched by any store in the nation. DJ's and collectors will delight in this vast collection of music, sheet music, and music memorabilia. The selection of used CDs and tapes is also extensive and constantly growing. Something of a library and music archive, consider the record man a reservoir of knowledge.
A Rhode Island shopping staple since 1982, In Your Ear sells new and used CDs, records, DVDs, stereo equipment, posters, T-shirts, instruments (guitars mostly) and turntable supplies (including cartridges and drive belts). It also buys and trades items. Customers can also take guitar, bass or drum lessons from one of In Your Ear's resident musicians.
After 20 years in Berkeley, Mod Lang recently moved to this El Cerrito. The record store carries everything from indie to '60s and '70s reissues, modern rock and folk rock. There is also a sizable $1 record bin. The shop is tucked away in a clean and safe alleyway off Fairmount street. Many items can be special ordered by request.
For fans of Star Wars, Batman, Superman, the Hulk, Spiderman, G.I. Joe, Transformers, Pokemon, and Yu-gi-oh!, Harrison's Comics and Collectibles is the place to be. Owner, Larry Harrison, says his establishment is "the best store you've never been in."
Founded in 1995, the Salem store is one of three locations where even adults can feel like kids again. Inside, you'll find rows of comic books of the golden, silver, and bronze ages. In addition, the store offers a variety of pop culture items, vintage toys and action figures, board games, graphic novels, collectible card games, and so much more.
Harrison's Comics also features gaming tournaments and special guest appearances by comic artists and writers. Every year, Harrison's hosts the North East Comic-Con in Boston. Those interested in selling or trading vintage comics are invited to make an appointment.