Published by Leonardo Calcagno
In collaboration with Kaneshii Vinyl Press
Who are you and your current job:
I am Sherman Breneman. I am the Store Manager of 7th Heaven and The Vinyl Underground at 7th heaven. I have been working here for 5 years. The store has been open since 1973, one of the oldest music stores in the Midwest. Our store is in Kansas City MO. We carry new and used music in every genre. If I had to say we specialize in one genre I would say Jazz as we have the largest selection in the area.
In which city are you located?
Kansas City has a very vibrant music scene. We have even had a showcase at SXSW for the last 9 years. Here’s some info: http://midwestmusicfoundation.org/midcoasttakeover/
What’s it like working in a record shop?
Working in a record store, is at first, like most retail jobs. There is a product to stock and organize. You help customers find what they are looking for and take their money. The differences are you get to listen to great music all day and you get to share your love of music with others.
What mind-blowing album are you listing right now?
My two favorite albums right now are Sunflower Bean- Twenty-two In Blue and Lucy Dacus- Historian. I hear a lot of music every day. When something catches my attention, it will usually keep it. Both of these albums are 2nd releases and there is no sophomore slump on either. I have also seen both acts perform the music live which always helps me connect to songs.
What does it take for an indie record shop to survive?
To survive an indie music store must do the same thing as any business- make a profit. Our long-term success has come from superior customer service and good margins.
What does Record Store Day, mean to you and your business?
Record Store Day is Christmas morning for record nerds. We look forward to it all year. It is our stores biggest sales day by far. We see ALL of our customers and meet many new customers that day as well. It is our chance to make people happy (having the releases they are looking for at a low price) and to make a great first impression on our new fans.
Tips for musicians launching an album?
Tips for musicians releasing an album. The cover is everything. Make sure your name is on it and is readable. Make sure you take into account how it will be displayed in a store. Good cover art sells records.
Local KC musicians /BANDS to check out:
The Philistines
Radkey
Hermon Mehari
Hi Lux
Chris Hazelton’s Boogaloo 7
KCMO Favorites
7thheavenkc.com/departments/vinyl-underground || facebook.com/TheVinylUndergroundKC
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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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Kansas City [Missouri] city guide x Sherman Breneman
Cafe | Messenger Coffee
Restaurant | Vietnam Cafe
Shopping | The Country Club Plaza
Grocery | Constintinos