The Thousands

There’s something in a name. Pet dogs, humans, cars, and bizniz. A name can aid on the quest to becoming a winner – whatever that is. This too counts for record labels and stores, a ‘place’ that is supposed to be a conduit to a new reality like the music itself. I guess it’s a ‘brand’ thing. Some of the best label names are those that touch on the celestial. Think Sun Records (first home of Elvis, Roy, Johnny Cash et al) Moon Ska (ska pioneers), Jagjaguwar; OK that isn’t celestial as much as other-wordly. But the point is, it’s better to be named something a little thoughtful, abstract maybe, rather than lame initials (looking at you you mega-mart) or just ‘Record Shop’ (actually, ‘Record Shop’ just might swing it). In the meantime, enter Clarity Records.

With fave local music haunts closing down, Clarity Records (good name!) is filling a hole in the music scene. A space for local bands to sell their music, punters to buy local product and rare releases; and to sound like the lamest person ever, it is what I always imagined Empire Records (good name!) to be like. Stocking not only records, but also merchandise, zines, art by local and interstate artists as well as skating paraphernalia. Plus their vinyl selection is pretty banging, boasting some of the best punk and hardcore selections you’ll find. Clarity quite like putting on a show or two as well, so hopefully there will be more collaborative efforts put in place to really create an atmosphere that exceeds the shop itself.