The owner of one of Merseyside's most legendary record shops has shared his top tips for people looking to start collecting vinyl. Ben Savage, 30, from Rock Ferry, became the shop manager of Skeleton Records when he was 22 and the owner when its founder John Weaver died in January 2022.
A Legendary Institution
Skeleton Records, also known as Skellies, was founded in 1972 and its musical history has cemented its status as a legendary spot to generations of record buyers. From the Sex Pistols to tricking bailiffs to save their extensive stock, Skeleton Records has survived and evolved throughout the 54 years the institution has been in existence.
The first Skeleton Records opened in Argyle Street, Birkenhead, in 1972, and moved to a number of different locations in the town before setting up shop in a side-street off Oxton Road in 1994, where it has remained ever since.
Growing Interest in Physical Media
Ben is a big fan of physical media, especially vinyl, and he said he's noticed an increased interest from the public in recent months. He told the ECHO: "There's definitely been an uptake in physical media and it's because it is so great."
"It's very hands on and everything that streaming isn't because you get to hold it in your hands, appreciate the artwork, read all the notes and see all the tiny human details which are completely lacking in the current soulless age of streaming."
After being surrounded by thousands of records for over 10 years he has shared some advice he would give to people interested in collecting vinyl.
Shop Second Hand
Ben said: "For novice collectors I'd suggest looking around local second hand emporiums. Don't spend all your money on brand new pressings of very expensive things or your money won't last. There is still good value and bargains to be had in the world of records."
Store Them Properly
Ben said: "Don't stack your records in piles face up because they'll warp. I'd suggest storing them in boxes if you've got limited space but I prefer a bookcase because you can read the spines and it's easier to pull them out to see what you've got."
"I would recommend storing your records somewhere you can see them and appreciate them instead of locking them away in a cupboard somewhere."
Try Other Forms of Physical Media
Ben recommends keeping an open mind when it comes to collecting physical media. He said: "A lot of younger people are buying CDs and cassette tapes from us because they're more affordable."
"I think that's a good way of getting into it because you get all the joys of physical media at a much cheaper price."
"I personally prefer vinyl and I don't think you can beat it because all the quirks it has makes it feel like the most human of the formats but CDs and tapes are a good starting point and a gateway into physical media."
