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Relative Theory Records

March 26, 2007 at 1:39 PM | 0 Comments

It was damn hot in the Virginia Beach area this Friday. While the roast-a-thon was short lived, it's never too early to start building your directory of local indoor activities (so long as they don't include the Tropicana Resort, that is). Music fans, sun haters, and FlyerTalk types alike should look no further than Relative Theory Records, a Norfolk store you could pretty much live in. Those who get the shakes when not actively engaged in some sort of loyalty program will be happy about the Relative Theory card: $10 gets you the opportunity to accrue store credit (5% of every purchase you make) AND demand a free small coffee every time you enter the shop.

Speaking of the coffee, this place doesn't just shill records, though that's its primary purpose. There's a cafe in the corner, and WiFi to boot, though the seating is extremely limited--most counter spots are set up with turntables and intended for customers previewing records. The vibe and impression one gets of the store's taste leans towards the McIndie, but the selection is pretty damn good. The vinyl and used CD sections are well stocked, and staff recommendations abound, as partly evidenced by the input scrawled on the above vinyl divider. Elsewhere, stickers on merchandise proclaim "Your new boner!" and "That guy from the Kinks!", etc. Indeed, the clerks are not yet jaded, and whoever's in charge is clearly still in their "Holy crap! I own a record store!" phase. Let's hope the feeling last, because this is actually a very, very fun place to hang out.

Relative Theory also holds shows at night, and shoppers are welcome to come in and browse as usual while bands are playing. Don't trust the opening hours on the Relative Theory website, though. The place is open from 10 a.m. - 9 p.m., Monday-Saturday, and 12 p.m. - 7 p.m. on Sundays.

Related Stories:
· Relative Theory Records [Official Site]
· The Boot [Official Site]