The night breeze in London might have been cool, but my adrenaline was still pumping. I was on my way back from Selhurst Park, having just witnessed the brilliance of Daichi Kamada on the pitch (read the match review here). However, as the post-match buzz settled, a different kind of hunger resurfaced in my mind: the craving for Oasis vinyl, specifically the elusive UK original Creation pressings.
Scrolling through my phone, I realized I hadn’t properly explored any new record shops on this trip yet. As CityNomix, that’s practically a dereliction of duty. Then, it hit me. I remembered seeing Flashback Records on Instagram—a shop renowned for its Britpop selection. A quick check of their official website confirmed the impossible: they had the 12-inch singles I wanted in stock.
But there was a catch. The stock was at their Crouch End location. It was 6:00 PM. The shop closed at 7:00 PM. A London bus would take over 30 minutes, leaving zero margin for error. There was no time to hesitate. I summoned an Uber immediately. This is the story of a frantic dash across London to secure a piece of musical history.
The Race Against Time: Heading to Flashback Records
Waiting five minutes for the Uber felt like an eternity. Once inside, I watched the ETA fluctuate on the app while staring out at the passing London streets. The driver estimated 25 minutes. It was going to be tight. I prayed for light traffic, visualizing the record sleeves in my mind to keep calm.
At 6:30 PM, I arrived. The bright white sign reading “Flashback Vinyl & CDs” shone through the darkness like a beacon. I had made it with just 20 minutes to spare. Without wasting a second, I stepped inside, ready to hunt.
Inside the Music Cave
Stepping into Flashback Records felt like entering a sanctuary for music lovers. Posters covered the walls, and wooden bins were packed with vinyl. The scent of old paper and wax filled the air. I went straight to the wall display, my eyes scanning for that familiar logo.
And there it was. The Whatever 12-inch, UK original Creation pressing. The price tag read £60. Having sold my copy years ago for much less, the current market price stung a bit. Next to it was Shakermaker for £80. I also spotted (What’s the Story) Morning Glory? on LP for £150 and The Masterplan LP for a steep £200.
The Ritual of Inspection
Given the soaring prices of LPs, I decided to focus on the singles. Time was running out, so I asked the staff to let me inspect the discs. The wait was agonizing, but necessary. When the records arrived, my anxiety vanished.
The jacket for Whatever had some minor edge wear, but the vinyl itself was a stunning EX+ (Excellent Plus). Shakermaker was even better, with both the sleeve and disc in EX+ condition. I checked the runout grooves and confirmed the “DAMONT” pressing mark—undoubtedly originals. “I’ll get them,” I said, feeling a wave of relief wash over me.
With my main mission accomplished, I quickly scanned the rest of the shop. I grabbed two Oasis keychains and spotted a White Stripes CD single in the racks. My experience at the Music & Video Exchange (read about it here) had sharpened my eye for CD gems as well.
Unexpected Kindness
I asked about The Stone Roses, but they were out of stock. As I approached the counter, acutely aware that it was now closing time, the manager smiled. “Since you bought the records, I’ll throw in the tote bag and the CD single for free,” he said.
Despite my last-minute arrival, there was no annoyance, only the shared warmth of music lovers. This kind of hospitality is exactly why independent shops like Flashback Records are so cherished. I left the store feeling triumphant.
About Flashback Records: A London Vinyl Staple
Established in 1997, Flashback Records is a pillar of London’s vinyl community. In addition to the Crouch End location I visited, they have shops in Islington (Essex Road) and Shoreditch (Bethnal Green Road).
They are particularly known for their rock-solid selection of used vinyl, especially in the realms of Britpop, Indie, and Rock. Their grading is strict and reliable, making it a safe bet for collectors hunting for specific treasures.
London Record Shop Guide: More Spots to Dig
London is a vinyl paradise. While Flashback is a must-visit, here are other keywords and shops you should know when planning a digging trip.
Rough Records
Often associated with the legendary Rough Trade, this name represents the independent spirit of London’s music scene. Whether browsing the racks at Rough Trade East or West, you’re guaranteed to find the latest indie releases and exclusive signings.
Casbah Records
Located in Greenwich, Casbah Records is a vintage lover’s dream. With a cinematic, retro storefront, they specialize in Soul, Funk, and 60s Rock. It’s the perfect place to dig for deep cuts in a nostalgic atmosphere.
Phonica Records
Sitting in the heart of Soho, Phonica is an institution for electronic music. From Techno and House to Disco, this is where world-famous DJs come to stock up on new releases and underground tracks.
Honest Jon’s Records
A Portobello Road legend, Honest Jon’s offers a world-class selection of Jazz, Reggae, and World music. They are also a respected label, playing a significant role in disseminating diverse musical cultures from London to the world.
Crazybeat Records
Ideally situated in Upminster, this shop is a hidden gem for serious collectors of Soul, Jazz, and Funk. While a bit further out, their massive inventory makes the journey well worth it.
Atlas Records
Known for their strong online presence, Atlas Records also boasts high-quality curation. If you are looking for pristine used vinyl in Rock and Pop, their lists are essential reading.
Yoyo Records
Specializing in US imports and high-grade used vinyl, Yoyo Records is a favorite among condition-conscious collectors. Their new arrival updates are always hotly anticipated.
Flashback Records London
As mentioned, Flashback Records operates three branches across London. Whether you are in Crouch End, Islington, or Shoreditch, each store offers a slightly different flavor while maintaining high standards. If you have the time, a “Flashback crawl” across all three is a fantastic way to spend a day.
Conclusion: The Reward of Persistence
I took a classic London bus back to the hotel, saving money over an Uber. The weight of the records on my lap was a comforting reminder of a successful mission. If I had given up because of the time, I wouldn’t be holding this copy of Whatever now.
Travel is about moments. When you feel the impulse to go, you should move. Hunting for records in London isn’t just shopping; it’s a way to connect with the culture and your own passions. So, if you find yourself in London, don’t hesitate to push open the door at Flashback Records. You never know what masterpiece might be waiting for you.
