Independent Record Store Spotlight - Positively Records, Levittown, PA

Some places are just sentimental.  Especially when it is something that you are passionate about.  Music discovery was in its prime for me in early 1987.  I was 16 years old, was getting a taste of freedom, and thanks to the random playing of Catching Up with Depeche Mode in a Wall to Wall Sound in the Gallery in Philadelphia, I had just discovered a new found interest in Alternative and Electronica music.

January 1st 1987, Positively Records opened up in a small strip mall at 5 Points in Levittown, PA.  At that time there were not many independent record stores in the working class town of Levittown. There were the standard Wall to Wall Sound and Listening Booth at the local mall.  If you wanted something hard to find you would make the journey to Tower Records on South Street in Philadelphia.  There wasn't a whole lot else except for one other local record shop that I refused to shop at because of the typical elitist attitude. 

The owners of Positively Records were and are low key but willing to help or find you something.  The small store hasn't changed a whole lot over the years.  The only difference between then and now is no cassettes, less vinyl, and more CD's.

The beautiful thing about the store is that it is packed from floor to ceiling.  It is a crate diggers paradise.  There is a lot to see so you have to look closely.  Every time I visit I see something that I had not seen before.

Even though the store is strong on Classic Rock there is still a treasure trove of punk, alternative, and alt-county for those willing to take the time to look.  And trust me, you can spend hours and hours getting lost in here.  I have used this store as a meeting place for first time meeting with online music friends.  Each of whom had gotten just as happily lost as I have in here.

As a teen I had bought not only my share of music but also rare posters and concerts shirts.  One of which I still have!!!

Perhaps the most beautiful thing about this store is that even my most recent purchase is no different than perhaps my first purchase there.  And just about the same price.  All this for $20.00.

There is something comforting about knowing that this part of my teen years and informative musical years still exists.  And for that matter hasn't changed.  Not to many record store can say that...let alone still exist. That says something.  Even though I have moved from here to there I still come back to this store.  I have introduced many friends to this store that still go back.  That's what it is all about.

Hopefully, I will see you there!

Fran

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