Pure Pop Records is the number one record store in Melbourne because it's the complete package and everything you can dream of in a record store. Sitting on Barkly St in St. Kilda, it's perfectly situated and designed - it transforms seamlessly from a classic record store, to a cafe, to a casual bar, to a live music venue or a cool intimate function room where their trademark Pure Pop Cat symbol is becoming increasingly noticeable and popular.
Of course, this is still predominantly a record store, where it's clear there is a genuine love for music. Having a chat to one of the staff members about music will no doubt mean you will be introduced to something new and amazing that you'll love. Their knowledge and passion of the industry as well as music in general is undeniable.
The store itself reminds you of an American diner of sorts, with some high tables and stools to sit and look at the eclectic mix of music posters scattered on the walls whilst having a coffee, reading a Beat magazine and having a toasty (great idea).
What makes Pure Pop so good, is it's outside courtyard which is set up with a little bar and stage, it's intimate and wonderfully attractive. The buzz as you walk through and see the relaxed patrons having a beer and listening to a cool solo performer, such as Tim Rogers (from You Am I), is electric. Recently, with Pure Pop's popularity on the rise, they've added events such as Pure Pop Trivia, Pure Pop Corn (movie night) and Pure Pop Ha Ha (comedy).
The mix of creative people and artists who Pure Pop constantly introduce is truly a credit to them - the whole place has an inspiring quality. It holds a great music culture, which runs deep and is very important for a contemporary record store. Records are a little nostalgic in a way and so is Pure Pop. It reminds you of simply appreciating music, life and creativity and where opening itself to other avenues has paid off tremendously. This store doesn't judge taste or preference and isn't pretentious at all, and it is where new and different is sure to get their cat ears perked.
I wouldn't hesitate in saying that Pure Pop Records is the best record store in Melbourne, it's advantages of having an amazing courtyard and bar means it's the complete package.
Truly one of a kind.
what really matters is what you like, not what you are like... Books, records, films - these things matter" High Fidelity (2000)
