Can’t stop the music - Classified Records go online
Dundalk’s independent record store, Classified Records have gone in line in response to the latest Level 5 restrictions banning all but essential retail. Given that many people consider music essential to their well being and enjoyment, the news that they can shop at Classified Records from the comfort of their own homes is certainly to be welcomed.
‘We are delighted to announce that Classified Records have gone online. In addition to our shop on the Demesne, we’ve opened online store too,’ says proprietor Neil Waters. ‘Behind the scenes we’ve spent the last three months curating this ecommerce website with the aim of establishing an indepth and interesting online store with a huge database on all records available instore.’
Classified Records has built up a loyal following of customers over the past five years, with many travelling from out of town to pick up some desirable vinyl.
‘ The essential nature of record shops is interaction and we’ve attempted to re-create this vibe on our site,’ explains Neil. ‘Every record has a huge amount of information available on it; an enlightening introductory back-story, an enlightening customer review, and complete track listing and relevant credits with multiple pictures. We know that our customers enjoy high levels of communication and we’ve simply tried to duplicate this vibe on our site. Music is an experience not a science.’
In these strange and often stressful times, listening to music is one way of looking after your mental health and well-being.
‘Music is said to enhance intelligence, focus and improve mental health,’ Neil points out. ‘It also helps boost the immune system as well as self-esteem and confidence, helping one relax and lift your mood. After a year like we’ve all suffered through, we are here to help our customers find the music they want and need to help them enjoy life just a little bit more than is currently allowed. We feel it’s important to keep the spirits up and keep on living.’
Echoing the sentiment of many independent shop owners, Neil says: ‘Now, more than ever, local businesses need your support. It’s acknowledged that shopping habits have changed in the last fifteen years but please do try and spend your online money locally this winter. We’re not telling anyone what to do with their cash but please try not to shop with Amazon, a company of dubious morals whose owner is worth $13 Billion. They definitely do not need your money as much as local businesses do.’
‘Life doesn’t happen to you, it happens for you. Five per cent is what happens, 95 per cent is how you react. This is us reacting. Our site, wwwclassifiedrecords.net was launched last Wednesday and we’ve been busy already with orders, organising collection points and posting packages overseas. Get in touch with us via phone 042 9386406 or PM us on our social media accounts if you are looking to pre-order anything this side of Christmas. Life must go on.’