Animal Records

Let me preface this review with the fact that I have been collecting, buying, and selling records for decades and also worked at record stores. I hope this is read as constructive criticism. The staff were also super friendly, nice selection, and it’s well organized. I was really excited that I stumbled upon this record store, it’s the kind of store I love to dig in. When I started looking at the used records, I was surprised at how high they were priced. A few that I looked at were in poor condition, but priced like VG. On top of that they were not even cleaned, like really dirty. If you are going to charge a premium, at least clean the records. I understand that you need to “keep the lights on “ and maybe I’m not the target customer. I wish you continued success.

This is a GREAT record store. The owner is an incredibly nice guy who “gets it”. I bought three records and a store t-shirt to rep the brand. All used records can be tried before purchasing. Prices are reasonable. If you like record stores, buy records when you go visit them. Amazon is cheaper but it’s also not supporting small businesses like this one. If you collect vinyl, let’s face it, you’ve got a very poor investment on your hands anyways! Don’t be a T-Rex , dig into your pockets and spend a few extra dollars.

I was in town for business for 2 days and my first night out saw their sandwich board sign at the corner way that they were there and there hours. I was staying just around the corner at the Holiday Inn. The next day walked on over and was greeted by their VERY cute dog. As I started looking the owner came over and introduced himself, ask my name and pointed out how the store was laid out as well as some specials on store merch. He also gave me one of the shop's new stickers. GREAT shop! Lots of great and very well priced items across all genres. I picked up a Joy Division flexi disc I had not seen before and a store tote bag. I would have picked up more but was keeping my expenses for this trip under control. Rest assured, I will be back as get to the area a few times a year. The whole vide and the people running the place could not have more friendly. I was greatly impressed as I have been collecting records since the early 1980s and been to record shops from coast to coast and just about everywhere in between and this was certainly the most welcoming and non-pushy shop I have been too. Plus, the cute dog employee always is a plus.

I’m building (buying new) and balancing (selling some) my record collection, Animal Records is my go to place! It’s so much fun in the shop with people from all over Chicago area and world too (traveling musicians and Northwestern University people) - it feels like a fun event to pop in say hello to Greg and the staff and give Pogo, the shop dog, lots of pets! It’s a great place to buy clients, friends and family gifts ! And the pop up live music out back feels like a cool backyard party with friends.

I was in Evanston for a show at Space and decided to stop in. They may have been only open for a year, but they have all the charm of a record store that is decades old. The staff were incredibly friendly and they have a good selection! The prices seem very reasonable as well for the items I was interested in. I wish I didn’t live so far away otherwise I would definitely be a regular customer! Next time I am out that way I will definitely return. PS:Your doggie is adorable!