Big Trouble in Little Five Points

Most music fans and those in the Little Five Points community have heard the news that Criminal Records is struggling to keep its doors open, and may well have to close before the end of the year. According to owner Eric Levin, this may be the eleventh hour, but saving the store is still possible. “It isn’t too late at all; the financial goal that we need to raise is a huge, unreal amount for an individual, but for an entire community? Things are looking very good. When we reach the fundraising goal of $150K, I’m giving the store to my long-time staff and I’ll continue in a more limited capacity.  We’ve heard loud and clear from the Atlanta community that we aren’t going anywhere, and for that we’re all very grateful.”

Levin says the potential closing of Criminal Records speaks to the state of the Union, “Vinyl and CDs are exceptional, but all of our customers are broke.  We’re broke. Music sales are down just like comics, toys, and DVD sales are down.  The distressed economy has adversely affected every American, but small business has been horribly crippled.”

When asked what the closing of Criminal Records says about Atlanta’s music scene and local support, Levin replies that he would much rather focus on what the rescue shows. “The answer is revolutionary, and I see this as a replicable phenomenon that will transfer to other cities and businesses.  In four short years, I’ve seen how Record Store Day can work miracles on a worldwide level; it’s so exciting to see the same principles work on a micro-level.  We can no longer wait around for our government to support and protect us; we have to rely on each other, and this experience is proving that out.”

To learn how you can help, follow Criminal Records on Twitter for fundraising event updates @criminalrecords.

CONTACT:

1154-A Euclid Ave.

Atlanta, GA 30307

(404) 215-9511

team@criminalatl.com

www.criminalatl.com