John Doe Jr. Records and Books

I had heard about this store and was finally able to swing by on the way back from VT. The store itself is bright, generally clean and loaded with a comprehensive stock across the musical genres. Downside for me was the classical titles were pretty much mixed in with the understock, making browsing both tedious and not easy on the knees. I did, however, manage to snag a few nice titles.
I was disappointed that the clerk working the shop made no effort to assist me when I asked him about a classical bin. There was no one else in the shop and he could have gotten up and made an attempt to help me. I would think if anything, the clerk could have put a little order in the understock instead of just sitting there doing nothing.
One more thing… there was a good size space at the front of the store that could have been put to use better. I haven’t a clue why the owner did not put a few bins in there to get some of that healthy understock up to eye level.
So, mixed review… good stock, decent prices, but more effort needs to be put forth to assist customers and put order when business is slow.

Vinyl, CDs, books, ephemera, art, happenings, Scott. Perfection.
A great shop with frequent performances.
Unlike many other record stores, the owner is actually happy you are interested music and what you may find.

Points for:
–Brand new copies of The Silver Apples’ first two records, on vinyl, still wrapped, $ 15.
–Random gems mixed in the classic and butt rock commons.
–Counterculture books and… wait for it… used magazines.
–No register– the owner makes change out of his wallet while spinning records at the back of the store.
Points against:
–Experience the enchanting musk of nag champa mixed with mildew.
–Limited selection, especially in jazz. For example, two Mingus Dynasty records but no Mingus!
–Vinyl generally seems okay, but condition of jackets can be questionable.
Definitely worth a half hour to cruise the stacks if you are in town!

There is more vinyl here than I have seen in one place in decades. The owner is very cool, their LPs are very nicely priced (I got some genuine steals). Like any used shop you have to pick through and inspect but I walked out there very satisfied.

What, you haven’t been here? Get thee over to browse the amazing obscure lit and demented genius music selection. Your mind is waiting to be blown.