A New Book Showcasing 33 1/3 of the Best Record Stores in New York City
On a sweltering August afternoon, just before a thunderstorm shook the city, I sat down with photographers and documentarians James and Karla Murray to talk about their new book, VINYL NYC: 33 1/3 of the Best Record Stores Across All Five Boroughs. Known for their acclaimed titles Store Front NYC and Great Bars of New York City, the Murrays have once again turned their lenses toward a beloved part of the city’s cultural fabric — this time, its vinyl shops.
The book is a 224-page celebration of New York’s record store scene, featuring striking photographs, detailed histories, and insider stories. It captures the spirit of vinyl culture in NYC, from century-old shops to pandemic-born newcomers, reminding readers why these spaces are worth preserving.
A Love Letter to Record Store Culture
James and Karla Murray have built their careers on capturing the soul of New York through its storefronts and gathering places. VINYL NYC continues that tradition, blending exterior shots, interior details, and environmental portraits that bring each shop’s personality to life.
The text, written by music journalist Hattie Lindert, pairs with the Murrays’ photography to tell the stories behind the stores. These include historic details, artist connections, and little-known facts — like how VP Records in Queens became one of the most prominent independent reggae labels in the world.
Spotlight on Iconic Record Stores in NYC
The book’s featured stores span all five boroughs, offering readers a curated guide to the city’s vinyl landscape:
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Casa Amadeo in the Bronx, open since 1941 and a hub for Latin music lovers.
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Blue-Sun in Williamsburg, a go-to for DJs seeking fresh pressings.
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Rebel Rouser in “punk alley,” housed in a row of converted shipping containers.
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Academy Records, where the Murrays unexpectedly photographed legendary producer Large Professor mid-browse.
Each listing includes stunning photographs, in-depth history, and location details, making the book both a visual keepsake and a practical guide for vinyl collectors and music fans.
The Meaning Behind “33 1/3”
The “33 1/3” in the title is a nod to the classic record speed, but it is also a playful detail in the book’s structure. The Murrays documented 33 full record stores and counted the Academy Records Annex as the “one-third,” a fun wink to insiders while ensuring no shop was left out.
The design, created by Sebit Min, features numbered listings, color-coded maps, and a cover that feels like a hype sticker — a thoughtful touch for anyone who has ever cherished album packaging.
Documenting a Living Culture Before It’s Gone
One of the Murrays’ guiding principles is simple: shoot what you love. This philosophy drives their work and gives VINYL NYC its authenticity. They want readers to experience these record stores in person, to keep them alive through visits, purchases, and word-of-mouth.
In our conversation, they spoke about the challenge of narrowing down the list of stores, the logistics of shooting in bustling shops, and the joy of meeting musicians and fellow vinyl lovers along the way.
Why This Book Matters for Vinyl Lovers and New Yorkers
For me, VINYL NYC captures the same feeling as stepping into a great record store. You are not just browsing — you are connecting with a piece of the city’s history and community. The Murrays have managed to bottle that energy into a book that will appeal to photographers, music collectors, and anyone who loves New York City’s cultural heartbeat.
Whether you are a longtime vinyl collector or a casual listener curious about where to shop for records in NYC, VINYL NYC offers both inspiration and a ready-made list of must-visit locations.
About the Authors
James and Karla Murray are award-winning photographers and authors known for documenting New York City’s cultural and architectural history. Their books include Store Front: The Disappearing Face of New York and Store Front II. With VINYL NYC, they expand their visual archive to celebrate a subculture that has shaped generations of music fans.
— Amon Focus
