The Vinyl Tourist Visits Albuquerque, New Mexico

In need of a local map? Try Google Maps.

Finally, if you haven't done so already, please read the Vinyl Tourist's Caveat.

1. Charley's Records & Tapes
   7602 Menaul Blvd. NE
   Albuquerque, NM 87110
   (505) 296-3685
    
   

   Charley's probably has the largest stock of used LP's in the state and most are priced at $3.49 each. Unfortunately, most are fairly commonplace and true collector's items are priced accordingly. The real reason to visit is the strong selection of new import and indie label records and 45 rpm singles which are featured at reasonable prices. Charley also claims to have "the largest used CD collection on earth," mostly priced at about $7 each (buy 10, get one free). If you love sweets or crave caffeine, be forewarned! Charley's empire also includes a café which features chocolate drinks, desserts, and expresso, in the middle of which are located most of the used records. Note: Used LPs are resealed, but may be opened for inspection at the counter prior to purchase.

2. We Buy Music
   107 Harvard Drive SE
   Albuquerque, NM 87106
   (505) 256-2524

   My comments about Bow Wow (above) pretty much apply to this store, too. There is, however, a somewhat larger selection and the collector with two or three hours to spend may be able to unearth a few bargains. There are also racks of $2 (and under) LPs in the back, but the price generally reflects their condition.

3. Nob Hill Music
   3419 Central NE
   Albuquerque, NM 87106
   (505) 266-4200
    
   

   A relatively new store, their site says, "We carry 45's, 33-1/3 LP's, cassettes, and some CD's. Our particular strengths are Jazz and Rock, but our collection covers all styles; world, soul, funk, hip hop, house, disco, reggae, blues, folk, country, vocal, soundtracks, and classical."

4. Cristy Records
   4212 4th Street, NW
   Albuquerque, NM 87102
   (505) 247-8484

   Cristy Records is a 60 year old family-owned gem set in the southern barrio of Albuquerque's Old Town section. While it mainly offers new CDs and tapes of Mexican and Nuevo Mexican music, there is a small inventory of new LPs at around $6.98 each (buy one, get one free!) and 45 rpm singles (3 for $1). They also carriy an extensive collection of Oldies and Tejano Music and some collector records. Weekday mornings are the best time to visit.

5. Krazy Kat Records, Tapes & CD's
   9012-A Central Ave. SE
   Albuquerque, NM 87123
   (505) 294-5644
    
   

   Krazy Kat is a typical used record store with an average selection that I wish I could get more excited about. The stock and prices are reasonable, but the store suffers from being somewhat disorganized. There are lots of 45's and 8-track tapes here, too. And you can go next door to the electronic surplus warehouse for a used 8-track player.

The Vinyl Tourist Main Page	The Vinyl Tourist's Journeys	Journeys Site Map & Links	Have You Seen This Record?