Journal

If you've been to a show at the New Parish in Oakland recently, you may have noticed a little record shop next door. Since Donovan and Jacinta opened Champion Sound Records last December, it's become a hotspot of musical activity on its own. Not only do they sell a mix of new and used vinyl, they often host record swap parties on the back patio with DJs spinning on weekends.

I met Donovan at one of the many swaps I've attended over the past couple years. He's been selling records independently for a long time, so opening up a brick & mortar seems like the natural progression. I'm just thrilled he did it in the neighborhood where I hang out most. Now there's always something going on and amazing musicians coming through this space, and I love it!

I've found many records I adore at Champion Sound - from Dr. John, Gary Bartz NTU Troop, and the Ramsey Lewis Trio, to name a few (yes, I do remember which shops I bought my records from). If you have any love for Latin/Funk/Soul/Jazz/Reggae/Hip Hop, you owe it to yourself to stop in.

Champion Sound Records is located at 1729 San Pablo Ave, Oakland, California

This week I had the pleasure of shooting at VAMP, a vintage music and art store in Uptown Oakland. I've bought many records at this shop over the years and gotten to know its owners, Tracy and Fernando. VAMP's selection focuses on jazz, funk, soul, and international records from the 1950s - 1980s. Needless to say, they've turned me onto some cool shit.

Tracy and Fernando also sell vintage clothing, jewelry, and other assorted tchotckes that they find while thrifting across the country. During our shoot, this happy customer picked up a Black Panther bomber jacket.

Lord_Lo with his Black Panther inspired jacket. — Lord_Lo with his Black Panther inspired jacket.

I love the warm, homey feel to their space. You could spend hours there just hanging out and listening to records, which I've done many times myself.

And the local music community seems to love VAMP, too. In fact, the M-Tet recently wrote and recorded a song dedicated to Tracy and Fernando and I think it perfectly captures their vibe! Check out the track here and be sure to pick up a 45 from the shop.

VAMP is located at 331 19th St, Oakland, California

Town Champs: Jacinta & Donovan

VAMP: Tracy & Fernando's Hideaway