Owen Howells talks us through his 5 favourite record stores in the world

For every true DJ a record store feels like a sacred place. At least, that’s the best case scenario. In a more and more digital age, buying physical releases itself becomes a ritual where you have to put your trust in reliable retailers and hidden store treasures to get your favourite vinyl gems. Berlin-based producer, DJ and label owner OWEN HOWELLS is such a vinyl nerd, one that always enjoys hours of record shopping in far-off places. HOWELLS has been bopping in the dark warehouses and clubs in Europe now for a good few years. During those years he already performed in some of the world’s most acclaimed venues like Berghain Kantine (Berlin), Fabric (London), Dommune (Tokyo).

Initially cutting his teeth warming up on London’s underground circuit he has gone on to play everywhere from Fabric London to Dommune in Tokyo and has been behind numerous 12-inchs releases spawning from the collection of imprints he’s involved with. We caught up with the lovely lad, off the back of a string of gigs and his latest project Carousel, a partly crowd-funded record store, party series and label and we asked him to talk us through his 5 favourite record stores all over the world. Get to know these first hand tipps from Mr. OWEN HOWELLS right here on NOTHING BUT HOPE AND PASSION.

01. The Thing (Brooklyn, New York, US)

A cavernous basement, beneath what seemed like a antique/charity store. Had a great time digging through here and met some old school New York selectors to add to the experience.

02. BM Soho (London, UK)

I really hope these guys pop up again somewhere soon. This was my main port of call while living in London. You were always greeted with a smile and a good recommendation. Something that’s greatly missed when buying digital music online.

03. Technique (Shibuya, Tokyo, Japan)

Great record shop in an amazing part of Tokyo. Not too far from one of the busiest intersections in the world. Solid selection here and a great part of town to explore.

04. Transition Records (Adelaide, Australia)

Tucked away down a little alleyway in Australia’s most underrated city is Transition. Friendly staff and from memory there’s a nice little used section at your feet too ;)

05. Carousel Records (Berlin, Germany)

I couldn’t not plug Mike Davis and I’s project Carousel here. Once a month we do a pop up store in and around Berlin and online too. We have been at the Independent Label Market and Klunkerkranich rooftop and all over. This Friday we are at the Berlin Musician’s Night Flee Market. We stock a variety of new and old electronic music, ranging from ambient to italo and techno. We’re striving to create a place to share and discover good music with like minded people.

Carousel Records will celebrate its 1st birthday at Sameheads, Berlin on April 6th, 2016

Photos by Owen Howells, Andy Green, and Nicky(RA)

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OWEN HOWELLS