PHOTO CREDIT: CHELSEA BRANCH
JM Records is a must-visit for music lovers and vinyl enthusiasts. Located on New Buildings Lane, just off Gandy Street, this independent record store is a short walk from the iconic music venues like Exeter Phoenix and The Cavern, making it the perfect pitstop for gig-goers looking to explore.
As independent specialists in imports and stockists of quality pre-loved vinyl, cassettes and CDs, the shop also stocks music merchandise, including t-shirts, pins & badges and portable cups.
The cosy space has had quite the journey, initially starting as a ballet shop, but now there is a different kind of toe-tapping.
We caught up with James, the owner of JM Records, to get the full story behind this welcoming, homely, one-stop-record-shop.
PHOTO CREDIT: CHELSEA BRANCH
Q: Tell us about yourself and what inspired you to open JM Records?
James: “I’m local to Exeter, and my love for music was always there, but during the pandemic, I started collecting records.
Like many, I had a lot of free time during lockdown. It all began with a throwaway comment on my birthday, and before I knew it, I was gifted a record player.
From there, my passion spiralled. I started importing records unavailable in the UK, particularly from the US, and JM Records was born.
Initially, it was a hobby, but by September 2021, I opened my shop, and it’s been an incredible journey ever since.”
Q: What makes JM Records unique?
James: “We specialise in importing unique vinyl records you can’t typically find in the UK. Many of our records come from the US, and we pride ourselves on offering exclusive colours and limited-edition sleeves.
An example would be how Taylor Swift often presses different album variants for the US and Europe, and we stock the US versions that aren’t available here.
We also offer pre-loved vinyl, cassettes, CDs, and music merchandise, and we partner with ‘Spincare’ to provide vinyl cleaning materials and protective sleeves.
For me, it’s about the whole record-collecting experience.”
PHOTO CREDIT: CHELSEA BRANCH
Q: What can music fans and tourists expect when they visit JM Records?
James: “Visitors can expect a warm, welcoming atmosphere and a range of vinyl, from pop and rock to rarities.
I also like to do things differently. Many record shops will traditionally promote or play the rock genre first. I am a huge pop and RnB lover., so there is a strong focus on these genres, and they are displayed at the front of the store. People sometimes forget that records don’t always have to be a particular genre or from a specific time in music history. Here, the two worlds merge.
We’re also a social place. Music always plays, and customers love to chat about their favourite artists and records.”
Q: How do you collaborate with local musicians or music events?
James: “We love supporting the local music scene. Our poster section in the shop features upcoming events, acting as a noticeboard for local gigs at the venues.
I’d encourage local venues and artists to always drop by with their posters. It’s an ideal way for visitors to discover new bands or catch a gig while they’re in town.’’
PHOTO CREDIT: CHELSEA BRANCH
Q: Why do you think supporting local and independent businesses like yours is important?
James: “Independent stores like this one rely on our customers. We’re not backed by big corporations like HMV, so every sale keeps us going.
But importantly, when you shop with us, you get a more personal experience, and we try to keep our prices lower than the big chains. Plus, it’s always fun to pop in for a chat or a wave, even if you’re browsing.”
Q: What's your favourite memory since opening JM Records?
James: “One of my favourite memories was selling my first record: a beautiful blue marbled Aretha Franklin Hits collection. It went to an online customer who shared a photo of it on Instagram. It was such an incredible feeling to know that my little shop was reaching people across the globe.
Q: Can you tell us about Record Store Day and any other special events?
James: “Record Store Day is huge for us! It happens twice a year, in April and November. We get limited edition releases from major artists like The Rolling Stones and Britney Spears, and once they’re gone, they’re gone.
National Album Day is coming up on October 19th and is also a big event. This year’s all about celebrating British bands and the release of special editions from the likes of Take That and All Saints.
Q: If your shop was a song what would it be?
James: It’s got to be ‘Please Stay’ by Kylie. Because I really want the shop to stay, and my customers too!
Q: Any tips for music tourists planning a visit to Exeter?
James: “Definitely! When you’re done browsing the shop, check out a gig at Exeter Phoenix or The Cavern.
Tourism-wise, it would have to be the Cathedral. It is beautiful. You don’t have to be religious to appreciate this. You just step into it, and everything falls silent.
For a bite to eat, it would have to be Herbie’s restaurant on New Street. They do amazing vegetarian and vegan food, and even as a meat eater, I really enjoyed their falafel pitta; it was amazing!
Red Panda is a go-to for me. It’s conveniently located just around the corner, so if you like Asian Street food, check it out.
Finally, get yourself a hot chocolate from Chococo, also round the corner from us on Gandy Steet. The hot drinks are delicious. The staff are really friendly, and it’s a great atmosphere.
Plan your visit
Location: Unit 1, New Buildings Lane, Gandy St, Exeter, EX4
Nearby attractions: Exeter Phoenix, The Cavern, RAMM
Opening Times: Check our social media for up-to-date hours.
Contact: 07476 078795, 4jmrecords@gmail.com
www.tiktok.com/@exeterjmrecords
JM Records is an inclusive and welcoming haven for vinyl lovers and music fans. So, if you’re visiting Exeter for a gig or just exploring the city, make sure you drop by this indie. You never know what musical treasures you might find.
VIDEO CREDIT: RECORD STORE DAY UK
