Something Else Records is a hidden gem of Kingston.Tucked behind the hustle and bustle of Princess St, the little record shop isjust off to the side, clustered alongside other stores at 207A Wellington St.Upon entering you’ll hear chimes from the door and see a warm cozy couch aswell as an endless supply of records, neatly organized in richly coloured anddistinctive purple bins. Whether you’re looking for something more mainstreamor a little edgier, Something Else Records has got you covered - the storeprides itself on containing a wide variety filled with niche artists andrecords. Congruent with the cozy atmosphere of the store is the fact that it isowned by a married couple, Matt and Tanya. 

Matt and Tanya decided to open up shop in Kingston alittle over a year ago, having worked in the music and literary world forfifteen years prior, primarily in Toronto and Ottawa. The essence of SomethingElse Records is most poignantly encapsulated in Matt’s mantra, “I’ve always reallyloved to share and spread good art”. This mission is apparent not only in theirwide and carefully selected products, but also in the diverse range ofcustomers the store receives. Upon hearing about the store I expected (albeitsomewhat naively) for the customers to be mainly students who are part of thevinyl resurgence that has occurred in the last decade, however, audiophiles ofall genders, ages, and music preferences frequent the store. 

Perhaps what really makes Something Else Records so attractive though is their commitment to the Kingston arts community, demonstrating Something Else Record’s ethos to spread good art. The shop holds in-store concerts featuring local bands and artists, growing the Kingston music community and crafting an unique experience from both performers and music lovers alike. Music is the perfect tether to a community because it is so unique and human, and has the power to create social bonds among unlikely people. Something Else Records helps strengthen and grow these bonds, and is a truly unique experience in downtown Kingston. 

Header Image Source: https://giphy.com/vinyl

Some of the content that MUSE produces is supported by some of our partners. It’s important to note that our editorial content will never be impacted by their support. We try our best to look at all available businesses in the Queen's community and Kingston area. Our choice to partner with certain businesses in the first place is never driven by compensation alone.

Isobel Gibson is the First Year Intern for MUSE