Euclid Records
Walking into Euclid Records in the Bywater neighborhood of New Orleans, it's hard to believe the shop has been here just over ten years. Yet, its impeccably curated music stash - comprising two floors of finds ranging from rare vinyl to vintage goods - the shop's offerings, and its staff's deep music knowledge are representative of the city's cultural history.
While the New Orleans branch opened in just 2010, it is an extension of a brand that has been serving audiophiles since 1981. 22 years ago the original St. Louis location launched as an independent outfit catering to the real music-seekers, attracting a sort of cult following that eventually inspired the launch of mail-order and online services to hit fans both in and outside of Missouri.
Euclid New Orleans echoes the values and mission of its sister outpost, ensuring that their offerings and music understanding make patrons feel welcome. It's the kind of place where every music seeker wants to stumble upon. It's truly unlikely to walk out with something you didn't even know you wanted to hear. Energized and passionate staff members guide patrons through with ease; just as excited to help you find exactly what you came in looking for as they are to introduce you to an underground LP or enthusiastically guide you to the featured local artist section.
The education process is arguably one of the greatest joys of crate digging, and Euclid's team gives the kind of honest and informed advice that inspires deep-dive music research journeys far after you've left the shop. "At one point someone was in here and asked, 'Who's Irma Thomas?'," Manager Lefty Parker recalls. "I asked if she knows who Diana Ross is, and she said 'yes'. I was like, 'Down here we don't know who Diana Ross is.'"
At the end of the day, the team behind Euclid has one mission: To resonate with the people who love music, however they love it.
"There are a lot of ways to buy music, but I think buying music at a record store you're comfortable with, and if you buy at the right record store...you can end up with someone that becomes a friend to you...and makes you feel rich for $25."
Head to Euclid Records for a real take-home music experience: 3301 Chartres St, New Orleans, LA 70117