The record store closest to Feel Records is “borzoi records,” located in Shinonsen Town, adjacent to Tottori Prefecture and approximately a 40-minute drive from Tottori City, the prefectural capital. As a result, many customers flying in to visit Feel Records often choose to use Tottori Airport.
A quick trip from Tottori Station, the nearest urban center to Shinonsen Town, will lead you to borzoi records, nestled in an arcade shopping district. In this interview, we spoke with Katsuaki Maegaki, the owner of borzoi records, who also manages the selection of shared records available at Feel Records Kyoto. Join us as we explore the charm of borzoi records, which boasts an impressive inventory of around 3,000 records.
What kind of products do you offer at borzoi records?
In addition to a wide variety of used vinyl records, we carefully curate a selection of new ones as well. We also stock reissues of classic albums that are particularly popular among music enthusiasts. Additionally, we sell cassette tapes, CDs, and used books.
Which music genres are predominant in your inventory?
We strive to maintain a well-rounded selection across all genres. While we generally accept used records from various styles, I personally lean toward highlighting the works of singer-songwriters.
Opening borzoi records in 2009 coincided with a challenging time for the record industry. What motivated you to start a record store during that period?
You’re correct; that period saw many music shops disappearing from the streets. However, I perceived this as a crucial opportunity to underscore the importance of physical stores. I envisioned creating a welcoming space where music lovers could casually drop by.
What led you to choose Tottori City as the location for your store?
Originally from Hyogo Prefecture, I was captivated by the unique atmosphere of this town and believed it would be an exciting place to launch a shop. Although we are situated a bit away from Tottori Station, the old shopping district that houses borzoi records has a distinctive vibe that truly appealed to me. The building itself features a charming retro style, which I find very attractive.
What sets borzoi records apart from other record stores?
We aim to cultivate an environment where everyone feels comfortable discovering great music. With speakers set up in the store, customers can listen to records before making a purchase. While some record shops can foster a tense atmosphere, we strive to maintain a relaxed setting for listening.
At Feel Records Kyoto, you provide shared records that include selections from borzoi records. What types of records can customers find in your collection there?
Considering the discerning tastes of customers in Kyoto, I select records that cater to their preferences. Since customers can also listen to records at Feel Records Kyoto, I focus on titles that invite careful listening. We also offer some more niche selections, ensuring our inventory appeals to music aficionados.
Finally, what do you find most appealing about vinyl records?
The allure of vinyl records lies in the unique sound quality they offer compared to other media. Unlike CDs or streaming services, records provide a greater sense of depth and dimensionality in the sound. This allows for a deeper and richer musical experience, which I believe is the essence of their appeal.
“borzoi records,” the nearest record store to Feel Records, features a wide range of genres, primarily focusing on rock, jazz, reggae, and more, showcasing Maegaki’s discerning musical taste through his selections. He is exceptionally approachable and happy to assist customers with record listening sessions. Why not take the opportunity to discover your favorite record at borzoi records and create a memorable experience during your visit to Feel Records? If you plan to visit Feel Records, be sure to stop by borzoi records as well!
