Reckless Records: Keeping records and CDs relevant
Some people think record stores are a dying breed, but since 1989, Chicago’s 'High Fidelity'-esque Reckless Records has thrived even when corporate chains like Virgin and Tower have tumbled. It’s Reckless’ independent spirit and ability to find rare music that keeps it essential.
With three locations throughout the city, a Reckless is always close by. The store capitalizes on selling new and used cds, vinyls, 45s, 7" singles, videogames, DVDs and even the obsolete cassette. Return customers and vinyl geeks suss out rows of genres to potentially discover that elusive gem of a recording. All formats are well-represented including indie, gothic, disco, soul, compilations, insurgent country and Krautrock. Concert posters plaster the walls and music plays over the PA system while collectors shop. The record and cd sections are organized by genre and are alphabetized by artist.
Customers can listen to CDs and vinyls before purchasing them, and there a few listening stations that play new releases. Besides music, Reckless has a comprehensive section of DVDs, box sets, magazines, books and videogames for sale. Check out the used bin to get Neil Diamond’s Heartlight record for a measly $1. Prices range from the cheap to more expensive depending on the condition of the vinyl.
A large portion of the business includes people selling their used stuff for either cash or store credit. Bring in a few CDs or crates of vinyls to make a quick buck. For extremely large collections, Reckless will send out a store expert to meet a customer off-site.
Don’t want to come into the store and sift through their merchandise? Reckless’ online store will ship items to anywhere, and if there’s something unfindable, they will special order it and even put requests on a waiting list until it becomes available. Every April, all Reckless locations participate in the annual citywide Record Store Day where bands and artists release exclusive singles for the occasion. During Record Store Day and periodically throughout the year, indie acts will pop into the stores for live in-store performances.
HelloChicago Tip: The other Reckless locations are: Lakeview: 3126 N. Broadway St., 60657, (773) 404-5080, Monday through Saturday 10 a.m-10 p.m, Sunday 10 a.m-8 p.m; The Loop: 26 E. Madison Ave., 60602, (312) 795-0878, Monday through Saturday 10 a.m-8 p.m, Sunday 10 a.m-7 p.m.
Posted by Garin Pirnia
