New Union Square Shop to Sell Local Musicians’ Vinyl

Brazilian psychedelic music floats around the bright magenta walls of Somerville Grooves, a new record store that recently opened in Union Square. Stacks of records and neatly organized bins show off a wide range of music – nearly 10,000 albums currently in stock. David Plunkett, owner and founder of Somerville Grooves, can often be found tending shop with his “no attitude” motto and vast knowledge of vinyl, stemming from his childhood love for music.

Plunkett first got his idea to start Somerville Grooves after a stint of unemployment. Having spent his free time at record stores, he noticed that vinyl had a much quicker turn around than CDs. According to Plunkett, many people prefer vinyl because of the collectible nature, but what it really comes down to is quality. “I’m a music person,” says Plunkett.  “I like vinyl better mainly for the sound quality. A record has the best sound of any consumer audio product…you can hear it even on a budget-priced system.” Using his savings and his already large record collection, Plunkett leased space in Union Square and set up shop earlier this fall.

The community couldn’t be happier. People come and go from the shop, selling their records and browsing the numerous bins. Somerville Grooves welcomes all kinds of shoppers: if you are the type to dig through every section, looking for the perfect deal, or someone who is simply looking for a specific album to complete a collection, then this is the place for you. Laid back and relaxed, Plunkett will leave you to it without hovering over your shoulder or spouting unsolicited record advice. Customers can also expect only quality records at Somerville Grooves; Plunkett cleans his inventory with a dedicated record vacuum cleaner, weeds out any trashed vinyl and everything is returnable if you are not satisfied.

Most importantly, however, is Somerville Grooves’ involvement in the local music scene. A Somerville resident himself, Plunkett is interested in helping local bands get their music out there and encourages them to sell their music at Somerville Grooves on consignment. Plunkett also invites bands to advertise shows in his shop and is open to the idea of having in-store performances, but due to limited space there won’t be room for huge bands. Sorry, Edward Sharpe.

And for all you aspiring Rob Gordons out there, Plunkett has one piece of advice: “Do what you like and hold out for a good situation and spot.”

CONTACT
Somerville Grooves
26 Union Square
Somerville, MA 02143
(617) 666-1749
www.somervillegrooves.com
somervillegrooves@gmail.com