Josh Wright, owner of Vinyl Street Cafe

In collaboration with Kaneshii Vinyl Press

Who are you and your current job?

My name is Josh Wright and I am the owner of Vinyl Street Cafe (VSC). I opened this store in 2016, based on the lack of a record store in the vicinity. Market research proved that Fairfield, CT could be a viable location for a start-up business. There is a strong small business presence as well as a terrific music culture, fronted by the non-profit music venue Fairfield Theatre Company (FTC). I followed my passion, and love for music AND coffee.

In which city are you located?

Fairfield, CT

What musical styles do you specialize in?

Rock, R&B, Jazz, Americana, Hip-hop

Can you give a small tour of the music scene in your town?

The ‘jam band’ is a huge part of this community. Everything from the Dead & Phish, to the Revivalists & Twiddle. Many national acts play locally at the FTC warehouse, which has a capacity of approximately 1000 people.

What’s it like working in a record shop? 

It’s fun but can also be tedious like any other job. Most of my time spent with customers is talking music from all genres, classic to current. Of course, there are many slow days that can test your patience. Initially, I incorporated the ‘cafe’ aspect into the business, with the hope that that would help to consistently drive in business. Unfortunately, it’s looked at as a novelty to this point.

What mind-blowing album are you listing right now?

Nathaniel Rateliff & the Night Sweats- Tearing at the Seams (great rock ‘n’ soul music!!)

Miles & Coltrane- The Final Tour, Copenhagen 1960 (self-explanatory)

What does it take for an indie record shop to survive?

Customers!! You have to have a loyal base that will come to regularly and order from you before Amazon/Discogs. You have to utilize social media, and always attempt to attract new clients.

What does Record Store Day, mean to you and your business?

First of all, it means customers. It’s basically a bonanza for the indie shop, where you get an opportunity to see a whole new set of people and an opportunity for new clients. I feel that we have to participate in this day if we expect to stay in business.

Tips for musicians launching an album?

Play at local venues…your local record shop. Grow relationships with those in the music business, that can help promote you, and get you exposure.

5 local musician to check out!

-Samantha Preis (beautiful voice, extremely talented)

-The Foresters (good musicians, fun live show)

-Edisun

-Brian Larney & the Town Hall (great vibe!)

-Hitch & the Giddyup (Americana vibe)

vinylstreetcafe.com | facebook.com/VinylStreetCafe

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Kaneshii Vinyl Press uses the latest technology in vinyl manufacturing, paired with classic vinyl pressing processes. Our goal is to create the highest quality products at competitive prices, while boasting industry-leading turnaround times. Request A Quotes 

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Fairfield [Connecticut] city guide x Josh Wright

Café | Las Vetas Lounge 

Restaurant | Centro Ristorante & Bar – Fairfield

Grocery | Whole Foods, all natural