In the age of internet downloads, and Amazon.com, the local independent music store is an anachronism. There’s simply not many left, and that’s a shame. Even the chains are struggling with the new business model, dominated by the internet. However, if your a serious music lover, finding a good local store is essential. For me that store is Last Vestige, on Quail St. in Albany. (Last Vestige also has a second location in Saratoga Springs) Last Vestige trades in used and hard-to-find CDs, vinyl, and also has some sweet analog stereo equipment in the back for the analog purist. Last Vestige also has listening booths so you can check out, and listen to what you’re buying, before you buy.
I’ve bought a lot of music from Last Vestige over many years. Every time I go, I seem to find one of those essential albums that is somehow missing from my DJ sets, or just my home collection. I buy a lot of music online, but there’s a visceral thrill to digging through a stack of CDs and finding a great album that one simply does not get making a purchase through Pay-pal online. If you collect vinyl? This is definitely the place to go. Also, the people behind the counter are music lovers themselves, who play in local bands. They know their product, and love music. The front of the building is adorned with flyers promoting the local scene. A lot of Albany’s independent shops have fallen by the wayside in recent years. Last Vestige is still fighting the good fight, and an integral part of the scene. Stop in and get turned on to some good music and a great shop.