VAMP is more than a record store.  The walls feature local artwork that rotates every month on first Friday. They sell vintage clothes, magazines and swizzle sticks. There is lots of vinyl, mostly used, and a listening station to check it out before you buy. Up front, you can kick back on cozy seats. Besides the store itself, VAMP seems to be popping up all over town (currently at Duende every second and fourth Monday, 9pm). The store’s official one-year-birthday bash takes place this Saturday, March 1st at the Legionnaire. March 7-9, there will be a full weekend of festivities at the store including live music (Oakland Future Trio on Friday, Planes of Satori on Saturday, and The Jesus Rehab plus Julia Massey & The Five Finger Discount on Sunday).

VAMP was regretfully overlooked on my recent East Bay Record Guide. Thanks to Tracy for setting me straight. Happy birthday VAMP!

331 19th Street, Oakland. Metered parking out front. Guinness on tap next door at Bill and Roy’s Tavern, aka 19th Street Station (beware secondhand smoke).