New Coastal Maine Record Store Is a Dream for Vinyl Lovers

In recent years, we have seen vinyl make a major comeback.

For decades, vinyl records were the way that people enjoyed music at home (and in the clubs).  Even the convenience of the 8-track did not put an end to vinyl's dominance.  However, by the 1980s, people were making the switch to cassette tapes and CDs.  By the early 1990s, CDs were affordable enough to be everywhere.  Slowly, even the CDs were surpassed by MP3s.  Later, streaming would all but end music ownership.

However, over the last few years, we have seen vinyl records really making a comeback.  At first, it was just special pressings of notable albums.  Now, though, it seems like every new album is being released on vinyl.

In addition to new albums coming out in the record format, many people have also started collecting old records from the 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s.  Because of this trend, we have seen the opening of hundreds of new record shops throughout the United States.

One of those new shops is tucked away in the small tourist town of Damariscotta.

Pearl Records on Main Street in Damariscotta, Maine

Over the weekend, my daughters and I decided to explore Damariscotta.  We had driven through the town dozens of times, but had never had a chance to stop and explore the cool, touristy, spot.

While we had a chance to check out a half dozen really cool shops, the highlight for all of us was Pearl Records.

The store, which had only been open a few days when we visited, features a mixture of new and used vinyl.  They also sell record players and even have some artwork for sale.

An article in the Lincoln County News explains that owner Sally Delaney says the shop is designed to appeal to all ages, especially younger music fans, with artists like Sabrina Carpenter, Charli XCX, and Kendrick Lamar already stocked on the shelves. The store will also feature a kids section and a performance corner for local musicians. Delaney, who previously owned Dyno Records in Massachusetts, says the response from the community has already been overwhelmingly positive.

Check out their Instagram account for more!

Exploring Maine's Coastal Towns & Villages

Finds like Pearl Records are why we love exploring the small towns and villages along Maine's coast.

There is nothing wrong with Portland, Freeport, Ogunquit, Old Orchard Beach, and Kittery, but some of the most interesting stores & eateries are found in the less-known towns and villages.