Sonic Boom – 512 Bloor St. W.
The great thing about this record store / airplane hanger is that they buy as well as sell. Yep that’s right, you can unload your embarrassing 90’s schlock (they’ll give you at least a quarter for that old Savage Garden CD that’s been hiding in your closet) and pick up some cooler tunes in one stop. Sonic Boom also has a huge selection of DVDs, music posters, and crates of both new and used vinyl. If you dig deep enough you’ll even find some rare “promo only” discs that they probably shouldn’t be selling.
Rotate This! – 620 Queen St. W.
Sporting a great selection of cool tunes on both CD and vinyl, Rotate also has a knowledgeable and approachable staff of hip culture-vultures who will gladly help you track down that rare Hot Chip remix. This slightly dingy and sometimes-well-decorated shop is also a go-to spot for local concert tickets, and while they still take a service charge, it is always cheaper and cooler than buy- ing anything from Ticketmaster. Perfect for browsing and sampling (they have multiple “listening stations”), Rotate This has to be the best lazy-Sunday-afternoon destination for your inner record snob.
Soundscapes – 572 College St.
A neat record boutique for the discerning music shopper. Stocked according to the owner’s personal tastes, Soundscapes carries the best of indie rock, electro, soul, punk, gospel and more. Be sure to check out their local section for stuff that’ll probably be blowing up this time next year. Soundscapes also carries a good selection of books about music, so if you’re into cultural studies, or just want to read up on Martin Hannett’s recording techniques, this is the shop for you. Their cashier also doubles as a ticket agent (cash only) for most cool concerts and shows in Toronto. Check the printout on the bulletin board as you walk in the door to see what’s available.
