More than Wrexham’s leading independent record shop, Revibed Records are building a movement for local bands to get noticed, heard, and promoted.
Revibed
Records
Ian Rees runs Revibed Records based on Chester Street, near Ty Pawb. We got an insight into what inspired Ian to set up in Wrexham when he popped into the Visit Wrexham office for a coffee and a chat.
The back story, the motivation behind it.
Origins
Growing up in Gloucester Ian settled nearby in the Wrexham area a couple of decades ago, and now feels completely at home. He sees shared cultures and experiences of living in a former industrial town and how the people that live here in Wrexham share similar experiences and challenges to where he grew up. Wrexham townsfolk feel like kindred spirits for Ian and that is why it felt natural to set up his business here after a successful career in technology – and of course Ian decided it had to be in rock and roll!
A Music
Destination
Like a sweet shop for audio
U Got
the Look
Stocking more than just a wealth of hard to buy, rare and limited press records and box sets, the store is a sonic experience from the moment you walk in through the door. We were treated to hearing the latest Faithless album on vinyl, which goes to prove try before you buy works as we couldn’t leave without a copy for our own collection. A massive self-confessed Prince fan, Ian explained that he has grand plans for extending the concept of what a modern record store should be today.
Supporting FOCUS Wales bands
Get Closer
To The
Music
Extending the store with regular monthly social events, Ian also hosted a series of gigs at the recent FOCUS Wales festival, at what might be described as an alternative fringe venue – with limited attendees getting an almost private, not circulated on socials but an ‘in the know only’, secret gig experience, with a number of acoustic gigs and podcasts recorded. This adds to the cool factor of the store that Ian is seeking to maintain. By doing so, fans and bands can connect directly, hear their music, support the store and the bands directly in person.
Inspiring the new power generation
The Power Of Recommendation
Additionally, Ian is looking at adding Top Selling Leaderboards in store and emphasised the power of recommendation to customers looking for inspiration and discovering new music.
Ian said to us “You can go anywhere to buy an album – but finding a new favourite – that’s the secret of enduring appeal, and knowing that what we recommend impacts lifelong music tastes.”
Building a Community and more
More Than
Just Music
Ian also believes in building community and actively supports and hosts networking events, tutorials for vinyl collectors, works with Gig Buddies to help people travel to and from gigs across the UK and has other exciting plans in the pipeline.
Revibed Records is an creative business venture and concept – and we can’t wait to help Ian with his dreams of turning Wrexham into a music industry centre of excellence, talent, and ability. Turn it up and feel the noise!
