Bruce is the best! Such a wealth of knowledge. He helped us find the perfect gift for a friend- a lesser-known Paul Simon record. He shared so much fantastic info about this album, I had to buy the only two copies they had. I also picked up a fantastic jazz album recommend by Bruce. His knowledge of music seems encyclopedic. You should absolutely chat with him when you stop by! read more

This freestanding bookstore is a hidden treasure trove to those who like to spend hours flipping through a thick shelf of alphabetized records and books. It has a fantastic collection of UK and US rock vinyl at highly competitive prices (usually less than $10 each), and a spectacular collection of new books. read more

The sales person is very pleasant and knows what she's doing. Very inviting and definitely will Go back here again. read more

Was walking on 72nd Street and saw this record store. Wowwww what a great selections of records, albums and CD's. Brings me back to the 80's. Definitely stop by when on the Upper West Side. read more

Westsider Records - Vinyl Records Near Me - New York, New York

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This place is a time capsule. The prices, for what's on offer, are, IMHO, somewhat too high. The quality of the used stock is variable (check for scratches and warps before purchasing). A bit musty/dusty. Bruce Eder, the one member of the staff I have met, is out of this world knowledgeable and personable. I am rock/pop vinyl collector so I cannot speak to the classical or jazz on offer. Half Upper West Side museum, half history lesson, half record store. An enjoyable place to visit and learn. There are better record stores in NYC, but not better record store experiences. read more

Westsider Records - Mr. Eder - Vinyl Records Near Me - New York, New York

Love Westsider Records. The gentleman that works there is one of the nicest, most helpful, inciteful men that I have encountered in the service industry!!! Bravo Westsider Records!! You rock!!! read more

Westsider Records - This is the vibe at Westsider Records! - Vinyl Records Near Me - New York, New York

Great experience. Large selection. Owner is very knowledgeable. Prices are great. Highly recommended

Westsider Records is a joy. It has a very low-key presence on W 72nd--I almost missed it while walking by--but it goes back pretty far once you're in the store, so there's a large collection to browse. I loved chatting with Bruce and hearing more about his writing career and adventures from over 60 years living in the city. There's a turntable in the back with a small label--"The Listening Station"--for folks who want to try out some records. I was too nervous to do so myself, but what a nice touch! I enjoyed browsing the postcards, which included everything from black-and-white prints of poets, quotes from writers, fuzzy old prints of Bob Dylan, and my personal favorite, an array of zany vintage sci-fi book covers. I picked up about four or five, and took Bruce's recommendation to also check out the Westsider Rare & Used Books on Broadway (he made sure to mention their cat, which I haven't seen yet but am determined to find). read more

Westsider Records - Narrow, but dense! Records, tapes, and postcards galore. - Vinyl Records Near Me - New York, New York

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One of the Best Record stores around & that guy who runs that store is very helpful & nice. Kandidmania. read more

Old school record store with an excellent selection,friendly service, and decent prices.

They claim to buy records here, i even called before to check that they were interested in my collection but please avoid at all cost. Their offer to me was 5% of the value... I went down to rough trade in midtown and their offer was 80% of the value.. better business & fair payout. Westsider Records really has no place in New York, its a bottom feeder who nickel and dimes their own costumers (their prices are 10% over value) and wont even pay fair prices for more inventory. Also, I was extremely friendly & the owner was rude and frankly... a bit hostile. I'm sure he'll comment some sad excuse on this review, like he seems to do with all the other poor reviews but Dorian, get a life and perk up ya big weirdo. I will say the guy on the phone (not Dorian) was very friendly and he's the only one getting the single star in this review.. otherwise i'd give it zero. read more

Excellent collection of classical music LPs if you're looking to re-populate your collection.

Such a great spot! Visiting from out of town and had a great experience. Got several records as gifts and a lot of education from the staff on music history . read more

Westsider Records - Vinyl Records Near Me - New York, New York

I used to live a couple blocks away. Now that my daughter purchased a turntable I'll need to get her in here to see the huge selection. I haven't been in this store for some time. The items they sell are in good condition. Wide variety. Historic business that's hard to find these days. Most record stores have vanished. Get in here and take a look. LP's are back in style. Spin those records!! read more

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Everything here is roughly 5$-8$ more then it should be. Since when do I see simon&garfunkel or other budget classics records like Traffic, Genesis more then $5 especially if they are not in mint condition. You can go to any other store with wide used selection and find your classic lps for 5$. That's what you should do. read more

This is a special old school book shoppe and used records store. I love that it's independently run and Bruce is very helpful. I found 4 old VHS tapes and needed to review them to transfer onto dvd. Bruce helped me in minutes and with a 24hr turnaround my High School graduation tape and swim camp tapes are now saved. (Camp nerd- yes) It's important to support our small business. Go get your vintage 'on' books and tunes read more

The older guy who I thinks own it was so nice! Chatted with him for a few minutes and was very knowledgeable about each Rolling Stones album I asked him about. Gave me $5 off the Stones album for no reason which was very nice of him. Such a big selection and priced very reasonable in my opinion! read more

Bruce is a treasure and NYC is a better city because of him. He helped me discover my obsession with Sibelius (ignited by the NY Phil and fanned by him), told me where to find a video of the original broadcast of Amahl and the Night Visitors when I bought the record (for $1...), and has one of the best collections of used plays in town. May this store, in an ever homogenizing city, never close! It's the best place to browse for records (especially classical, jazz, and original Broadway cast recordings) and find a gift you never knew you needed. His wide variety of items could fill a store 3x the size of this place! read more

This nook is tasty. If you don't see a book on a shelf, check behind it. Voila! Search away. I normally score great sci-fi and fantasy or philosophy books here. The vinyl is another story. Rotary Connection. Alan Parsons Project. The Crusaders. Dr. Dre's The Chronic. Rush. Smashing Pumpkins. Jean Michel Jarre. Goodies for me. And inexpensive. This store invites you to take your time, get comfy, and peruse. Happy hunting. read more

Super helpful staff! Offered an amazing musical history lesson on the records I was looking for. Very impressed with service and offerings.

I can surmise that the only reason no one has reviewed this place is because they don't want anyone picking their gems before they get there... But the truth must be told, this place rocks. The collection of jazz is extensive & eclectic - some really great recordings and pressings can be found if you put in the time, and nearly everything is in really good condition. Sure, there are walls of classical that nobody seems to buy, but if you're into that, this is your goldmine because there's some really great collections to be picked. The good rock mainly ends up at their bookstore further up on Broadway, but there are still some good ones left here so don't count that out. The reggae collection is also decent but I was hoping for more afrobeat - though that's rare to find anywhere. And trust me - don't overlook those $1 areas when you walk in - I've found some amazing quality stuff in there too. Now don't tell anybody else about this place and we're cool, alright? read more

I'm honestly glad not many people have reviewed this place because I'm selfish and I don't want people to take what I love. BUT half of me loves this place so much that I'd love for them to expand their clientele and do well so here I am writing this review. When you walk in, you'll feel like you're walking into a really cramped and very old library. I love that because I'm a huge fan of places and objects that feel loved and cared for by people of all ages. They have A LOT of vinyls from jazz to opera and the place is literally overflowing with how many they have. So be careful not to stumble on the vinyls littered in little stacks on the ground. They need to be handled with love. The prices are great and the vinyls are in very good condition. I had no problems with mine. The cashier is also extremely friendly and will be willing to help you with whatever you need to find. read more

This place is amazing! The staff is very friendly; you can find anything u wouldn't find in in a regular record store. From Classical Records to obscure Brazilian Christmas Songs! read more

I was super excited to explore this store, but unfortunately was only inside for about a minute before the owner (I'm assuming) made the experience so intolerable that I had to leave. I made the grave mistake of asking where I could find "books on music"--I wasn't aware that it was a mostly a music store, scaffolding covers the sign, and the section I was looking in had titles like The Kite Runner, etc.--and he seemed so incensed by my ignorance that what followed was a weird interrogation of what I meant followed by him huffing and puffing from behind his desk and pointing out the bio section, the dance section (?), the jazz section, and so on, stomping through the closest aisle to his register. He could've just pointed and said "over there" when I told him I was interested in bios, like what I saw in the window, but apparently this seemed like the more reasonable choice. Anyway, as he seemed to be unraveling before my eyes, I told him he could stop what was turning into a bizarre tour of the store, and as I left, I heard him continue to grumble behind my back; I thought I even caught an obscenity. This is the kind of store I could've spent hundreds of dollars in. I won't, however, be returning. Too bad. I live down the block. read more

After following Westsider Records on Facebook and seeing their great videos with new arrivals and commentary, I decided to take a lazy Sunday trip down to the store. As I entered, I realized it was the exact way I love music stores; eccentric and full of different media such as LPs, EPs, CDs, Cassettes, music scores, lesson books, etc. If you're a record digger, then this is the place for you! As said in previous reviews, their Classical and Soundtrack section is immense - but I found many records in the Classic Rock and Jazz genres I looked through. I bought their $30 for $50 deal, and not only was it easy - but the cashier liked the fact I was using it. (I've found this not to be the case at other establishments across the city) I was a few bucks over $50, but the cashier evened it out for me. I go to record stores to obviously peruse, but I also go for the conversation. The bearded guy behind the desk was knowledgeable and easy going. I bought Allman Bros at the Fillmore, Wes as the Half Note, and a few other records. We spoke a bit about his Uncle's experience at both the Fillmore East and Fillmore West. It wasn't an in-depth conversation, but it was nice to hear he was knowledgeable about what I was purchasing. 5 Star review! I will definitely go back and dig in a bit deeper. Check out their Facebook page. As I stated previously, they put up videos of records every now and then. If something pops up, you can run down there and grab it up! read more

I don't have much expertise in buying vinyls, but this is a solid record shop. Lots of oldies, but goodies. Not a large Latin selection, which is what I was looking for, but still found a few I was satisfied with. What topped the experience is that I bought the 50 buck deal for half off. That said, I left with 6 pretty antique records for only 35 bucks. Again, not sure how these things run in the market these days, but seems like a pretty good deal for records that were released before I was even born. read more

If you are looking for classical music then you will be in heaven as this is the store's main focus. They have a massive selection of very well organized classical music that goes from the floor to the ceiling. They have a very handy footstool that you can stand on to help you reach those records near the top. If classical music isn't your thing, they also have a nice selection of R&B, jazz, rock, and many other genres. If you are looking for hip hop, they rarely get them in. It isn't that they don't want to sell them, it is just that they rarely have customers bring them in. They also have an amazing selection of soundtracks where I was able to score a still sealed original pressing of 2010 The Year We Make Contact for only $13 bucks! Heck yes! The gentleman who works here is friendly, very knowledgeable, and was extremely helpful at helping me find everything I was looking for. Their prices are very reasonable with many bargains throughout the store. One of the best record stores in NYC. Highly Recommended! read more

This place is awesome if you like to dig and rummage through books and records. Though the place has more classical music than others, they certainly have enough rock, jazz, and other genres to keep you busy for awhile. The only problem I have and thus I took one star off, is the organizing of the records. The place is cramped, which I understand why they stack the records the way they are. But you have to climb on ladders to browse stuff on the top shelf. The records on the bottom shelf is also hard to browse as there are records stacked on the floor. But if you have no problems with climbing ladders and sitting on the floor to look for stuff, this is a good store to kill an hour or two. Maybe even a whole day as they certainly have enough things to keep you occupied. The prices are about average give or take a few bucks here and there. But nothing beats looking at a record in hand before you buy it. read more

Tourist trap prices. Not recommended for the serious collector! Small rock section. Had to immediately leave after seeing America- Harbour and Big Country - Steeltown for $10 each!! A few Bowie records with names written on or cut outs for $30+ read more

Westsider is a treasure trove for vinyls in the UWS. Nestled in a beautiful part of town next to Trader Joes, Westsider contains an untapped collection of music especially for those itching to rock out to Brahms or Beethoven. The place is overflowing with great classical and jazz vinyls; however if you're looking for something more new age and modern this probably isn't the place to find it. Nevetheless, with a solid collection at decent values, its safe to say that you can find something here that will tickle your eardrums. read more

One of those gems if you have time to browse and ponder. As others mentioned the space in this little store is well packed with records and books, they are alphabetized and in music style sections, but other than that be prepared to rummage about for hours, this is not Barnes & Noble (thankfully!!!). I found a great selection of UK and US rock, as well as some old reminders of my days during the 80's, so I had a field day picking up some good old vinyl from back in the day, and at what I thought was a very reasonable price (all of my selection were single dollar figures). As far as I could tell, all the vinyl was second hand, but all the books looked brand new, and a good selection of both. read more

I like the idea of records, but admit I'm not really an active fan. Despite, I came here because it's connected to Westsider Books on Broadway across from Zabar's on 80th (which is a gem) and did like it. It's quiet, and they play lovely music (as they should) and leave you alone to browse, which is good. In short: nice environment, and with patience you can find some real gems. I bought a book. read more

I almost don't want to write a review of this place and instead keep it all to myself. I feel like it's New York album lovers' best kept secret, and I may be ruining the party, but they deserve some love. The store has good stock at really affordable prices. (Their classical section is most extensive, but I tend to stick to the rock and country/folk.) The covers aren't in the best shape, and you have to dig through stock that doesn't change over that often, but I'm buying for listening, not for album cover condition, and I've found some amazing albums in great condition here for a really fair price. They will let you listen to the albums before you buy them, and may even provide a nugget of music trivia if you're feeling chatty. Never disappointed when I come out of here. read more

Maybe I was a bit harsh on my first review. It does cater more towards a clientele that may look more into classical and jazz records (like its audience on the Upper West Side). They have some of the best classical records in town, and are always in stock with what you are looking for. I stand by my earlier review about their more "contemporary" records, but this is the spot if you are looking to add some, how you say, "class" to your record collection. read more

I had an awesome time at Westsider Records today. The staff was awesome- he had great suggestions based on what I was buying and was an all around cool and knowledgeable guy. I came in looking specifically for Nick Drake's Pink Moon, and the stars had definitely aligned! He'd just gotten a copy in and was a huge fan of the artist so we had a lot to talk about! Wish I didn't live 5,000 miles away, loved this store and the staff!! read more

Previously I marked this place down for a lack of the kind of stock I'm looking for and its tall, inaccessible storage. As I said at the time, if I found something on another trip I'd probably bump up the rating and indeed that was the case recently. A much improved jazz section (but only in the New Arrivals section, to be honest) and, crucially, reasonable pricing on those items deserves the extra star, and it was a dumb reason to reduce the rating in the first place. However, I'm sticking by the 4 star review due to just how much of the stock is entirely inaccessible and I'll add that its very much out of the way of other shops in Manhattan so requires a special trip to get to on its own, but it's a great spot run by a very helpful and friendly guy and you've got to check it out. read more

A hidden gem of Upper Manhattan. I had walked by it hundreds of times without a thought, but once I finally got a record player, I decided to check it out. It's a rather small place, but it is completely packed full of records! People think places like this died out long ago, but they will thankfully be proven wrong once they go in. The store has a very extensive collection, mostly consisting of classical and jazz. But, they also have a rather large rock/pop stock. I have spent hours there perusing their selections. If you spend a long time looking, you can find some very interesting items! For example, I've found some Talking Heads and Lene Lovich albums in decently good condition for $5, and a Bob Dylan double LP for $16. Many of the LP covers aren't in the best condition, and I have accidentally bought a scratched-up record or two. My only complaints are that there isn't a huge amount of turnover, and most of the rock records are pretty old/have been there for a very long time, and it's also pretty dusty (but it's a record store, you can't blame 'em). In any case, it's a rather interesting store in a relatively bland neighborhood, with a calm atmosphere (they're usually playing old Jazz songs), wide selection and helpful staff who know a lot about music. read more

It's gems like this store that have often been over-looked. You thought the best places were only downtown? Bleeker Street What?! Well, stop that line of thinking and avoid this treasure trove no longer! Westsider is a goldmine of vinyl treats- a massive collection of Jazz, Rock, R&B, Classical, Showtunes, Hip Hop and more. It's also a library of infinite possibilities that stretch beyond the worlds of sound- maybe you want to read a "Cat on Hot Tin Roof" and complement it with a rare Miles Davis LP, or buy a video tape and get that VHS player fired up again, or maybe grab a handful of old postcards. An older guy works the counter- immensely helpful and knowledgeable- just ask for the artist, and he knows everything there is to know about an issue or recording date. Westsider is YOUR place and it keeps getting better and better. This place was MADE for music junkies. read more

The selection of LPs is good not great, and I'm guessing hit or miss depending upon what the owner has just acquired. The prices are a bit high, with default prices of $10 and $20 on most albums, but there is that Yelp deal of $30 for $50 and the owner is willing to provide discounts if you purchase multiple items. The shop itself is fun to browse and the owner, if you choose to engage him in conversation, is very knowledgeable about music. In talking with him, he provided a couple of recommendations, not as a sales tool since he didn't even currently have either album in stock, but more as one music appreciator to another. So 3 stars for selection, but a 4th star for the ambiance of this place. read more

This place is great. I spent two hours thumbing through records and found some AMAZING stuff. The guys there are nice people too. Great conversation and great service. If your like me and a big classical nut you MUST go here with ample time to look through everything! read more