Down a quiet cobbled lane off Exeter’s historic Gandy Street, JM Records makes a strong case for the enduring appeal of the small, independent record shop. Occupying a compact unit in the New Buildings, this is a shop where personal recommendations, carefully sourced imports and a constant soundtrack matter more than square footage, and it has quickly become a fixture for record buyers across the city and beyond.
Background / History
JM Records is the work of owner James, who turned a lockdown passion into a full-time business. Like many collectors, he found himself drawn deeper into vinyl during the pandemic, building an online following by buying and selling records and developing a sideline importing pressings that were hard to find in the UK. That online trade grew steadily until, at the end of September 2021, he opened a permanent shop in a small Gandy Street unit that had previously served as a ballet shop. The location places JM Records among the independent traders that give this part of Exeter its distinctive character, on one of the oldest streets in the city.
What You’ll Find
The shop’s real speciality is imports, particularly American pressings with exclusive colour variants and limited-edition sleeves that rarely reach UK shelves. Alongside the new and imported stock sits a well-chosen selection of quality pre-loved vinyl, cassettes and CDs, spanning everything from 7-inch singles to full albums. Pop and R&B take pride of place near the front, but the racks reward patient browsing across a much wider range of genres. There is also a good spread of music merchandise, including t-shirts, enamel pins, badges and portable cups, plus Spincare record-cleaning products and protective sleeves for anyone looking after a growing collection. Special requests are welcomed, and James will happily try to track down titles that are not in stock.
Experience / Atmosphere
Browsing here feels relaxed and genuinely social. Music plays throughout, conversations about favourite artists start easily, and there is none of the snobbery that can put newcomers off record shops. The shop leans firmly into being inclusive and welcoming, equally happy to serve seasoned collectors hunting a rare variant and first-time buyers picking up a turntable staple. It also plays an active part in the local scene, acting as an informal noticeboard for gigs at venues such as Exeter Phoenix and The Cavern, and championing local musicians whenever it can.
Why Visit
- A genuine specialist in imported vinyl, including US colour variants and limited editions
- Quality pre-loved vinyl, cassettes and CDs across a wide range of genres
- Strong on pop and R&B, with plenty to discover beyond
- Merchandise, badges and record-care products under one roof
- A friendly, inclusive atmosphere that suits collectors and newcomers alike
- An independent shop rooted in Exeter’s music community and Record Store Day
Summary
JM Records proves that a small footprint is no barrier to character or stock. With its focus on imports, its carefully curated second-hand racks and its welcoming, music-loving owner, it offers something genuinely different from the high-street norm. Whether you are chasing an elusive American pressing, building a first collection or simply enjoying an unhurried flick through the racks, this Gandy Street shop is well worth seeking out.
