Vinyl at Heart

Scroll less. Listen more. That’s the vinyl mindset.

For vinyl lovers, listening to an album is more than analog entertainment—it’s an immersive experience, and every side tells a story, from carefully sequenced tracks to expressive cover art. It’s an invitation to slow down, absorb each lyric and instrumental choice, and rediscover music as a form of connection and reflection. This analog devotion lives on, and we’re exploring the record shops and experiences that continue to bring it to life.

Vinyl at Heart

Public radio is just one of the places where the spirit of analog still thrives. In 2023, WBJB (Brookdale Public Radio), the team behind Daily Dose of Dead, released its first vinyl album, Best of Live at The Night… So Far. This limited-edition record features in-studio performances by Bruce Springsteen, Josh Ritter, Glen Hansard, and Pete Yorn, including a 2005 recording of Springsteen performing “All the Way Home.” Each track was generously donated by the artists, and the album is available for a $35 donation. It’s just one more way that public radio is preserving live, intimate performances in a format that honors their authenticity.

WBJB DJ Stu Coogan, a trusted voice in the local music scene, also shares his favorite albums of 2024 (in no particular order), highlighting standout releases that deserve a spot on your turntable. His picks of local and national acts include Dark Side of Paradise by Messer Chups, Nite Owls by JD McPherson, Small Changes by Michael Kiwanuka, and JPEG Raw by Gary Clark Jr. On the local side, artists like Waiting On Mongo (From the Top), Surfing For Daisy (The Porch), and Little Hag (Now That’s What I Call Little Hag).

The passion for immersive, intentional listening also lives on in places like WXPN, the Philadelphia-based public radio station. With the tagline “Vinyl at Heart,” WXPN doesn’t just play songs, it curates musical experiences, hosting full-album airings.

Picking up Vinyl at Local Record Shops

The commitment to analog sound isn’t limited to the airwaves. Independent record shops continue to foster community, discovery, and a love for physical music. One standout is Lofidelic Records in Belmar, a vinyl-only destination founded in 2017 by David Hernandez and his son Ethan. With its wide-ranging selection of new and pre-owned vinyl, live DJ sets, and intimate performances, Lofidelic isn’t just a store, it’s a hub for vinyl culture and connection.

Another pillar of the vinyl scene is Jack’s Music Shoppe in Red Bank. A beloved institution since 1970, Jack’s offers a deep catalog of vinyl, CDs, and music memorabilia, serving generations of music lovers. Like Lofidelic, it’s a place where longtime collectors and curious newcomers can browse, discover hidden gems, and talk music with a knowledgeable staff.

Whether you’re tuning into WXPN, spinning WBJB’s rare vinyl release, browsing the bins at Jack’s Music Shoppe or Lofidelic, the message is clear: albums still matter. They remind us to slow down, listen deeply, and stay connected to the music and each other.

Until next time, peace.