In Vinyl Lives we spotlight and profile record stores around the country who offer music lovers an experience that goes beyond an iTunes purchase or a Spotify playlist. Vinyl has found a new resurgence in recent years and the good folks behind independent record stores are on the front line, directly responsible for curating a unique collection of music. Here at Glide Magazine we feel that record stores are a valuable part of the community and to music as a whole, and are therefore worth celebrating.
Years ago, there was a French trio called Revolver that signed to Astralwerks and put out out a few notable releases, including 2009’s Music for a While LP that received wide acclaim. Now, Ambroise Willaume (aka SAGE, formerly of Revolver) is back with a new band called Astral Bakers.
The group’s sound lands somewhere between the sounds of Big Thief and Supertramp. After having collaborated on a large number of records and tours with a number of artists, the four members of the Astral Bakers (Sage,Theodora, Nico, Zoé) recently released “One More,” a piece that’s both pure and powerful, with a fragility emerges that concludes in a joyous singalong group vocals.
The “One More” video takes you to the heart of the Astral Bakers’ recording process. Matthieu Torres’ camera is at the center of the four members of the band who form a perfect circle, moving from one musician to the next to the rhythm of the instruments and Sage’s voice. Filmed in sequence shot, without ever breaking away from the slow and unchanging rotation of the central camera, the track is captivating with its honesty and simplicity.
To celebrate this band and their new music, each of the members of Astral Bakers shared their favorite record store:
Crocodisc (Paris, France) – Theodora’s Choice
An amazing record store in the heart of the « quartier latin », created in 1978. I used to go there all the time when I was a student and buy prog rock and new wave records.
Brick Lane Vintage Market (London) – Zoé’s Choice
I’ve been buying most of my collection at the Brick Lane Vintage Market – best way to find great clothes and great vinyls at the same time! They have a few stands with only used vinyls and cds, so make sure to take a look at their condition before buying anything, but they come pretty cheap! I bought a really great Motown mix last time I visited the place. I listen to it nearly every week to cheer me up.
Minneapolis Disques (Montpellier, France) – Nico’s Choice
It’s the record store where I discovered most of the music I listened to during my teenage years. I owe them a lot. Open to every kind of music and always giving good advice to the kids. Sadly, mp3s killed it.
Ground Zero (Paris) – Ambroise’s Choice
Definitely my favorite record store in Paris, the perfect place to browse through a big vinyl collection. They have the latest releases as well as very indie unknown artist, and always willing to help me dig into any kind of music. They also have a good collection of ambient, which I find perfect in a vinyl format for a great chilling afternoon, like Mort Garson’s new album, Journey to the moon and Beyond.
