Get ready, Denver! Your favorite independent record store, Wax Trax Records, is spinning into a brand new neighborhood! With vinyl sales soaring, they’re bringing even more musical magic to West Highland. What forgotten gem are you hoping to unearth?
Denver’s vibrant music scene is set to welcome an exciting new chapter as the venerable Wax Trax Records announces the opening of its fourth location, a strategic expansion designed to meet the soaring demand for vinyl records. This move by the independent retailer underscores a significant resurgence in physical music formats, proving that the tactile experience of discovering music remains deeply cherished by enthusiasts across the metro area.
The newest outpost for the iconic store will debut in October, nestled within the bustling West Highland neighborhood at the corner of 32nd Avenue and Meade Street. This carefully selected spot aims to integrate seamlessly into the local community, offering residents a convenient and immersive destination for their musical exploration.
With a rich history spanning over 51 years, Wax Trax Records has cemented its legacy as a cornerstone of the Denver music landscape. Its flagship store on 13th Avenue in Capitol Hill has long been a pilgrimage site for collectors, complemented by the recent success of its Wax Trax Broadway Bazaar and a dynamic mobile-retail unit, all contributing to the impetus for further growth.
The expansion comes at a time when the popularity of vinyl records is reaching unprecedented heights. Industry reports indicate a robust market, with vinyl sales surging to an impressive $1.4 billion in 2024, accounting for 44 million units sold. This upward trend highlights a powerful consumer shift back towards tangible media, driven by a desire for higher fidelity sound and collectible artistry.
A distinctive feature of the new West Highland location is its unique “walkable” accessibility, positioning it as the only record store west of I-25 designed for pedestrian convenience. This community-centric approach aims to foster a more intimate shopping experience, encouraging spontaneous visits and deeper engagement with local culture and independent retail.
Occupying a charming red-brick storefront that previously housed the home-decor retailer Candelaria, the new Wax Trax store revitalizes a space that saw declining foot traffic in recent years. This transformation from home goods to a hub for music culture signifies a positive shift in local retail dynamics, injecting new energy into the neighborhood.
According to owner Dave Stidman, Wax Trax views its primary competition not among fellow independent record stores like Twist & Shout, but rather from the expansive reach of online platforms and large big-box retailers. By establishing a strong, walkable presence within neighborhoods, the store seeks to capture a segment of the market that values personal interaction and immediate access to their favorite records.
As the opening date approaches on Saturday, October 11, anticipation builds for what promises to be a vibrant addition to the Denver music scene. This strategic expansion by Wax Trax Records not only reinforces its commitment to the local community but also stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of vinyl and the power of independent businesses in shaping urban cultural identities.
