While record stores have faced challenges in the digital age, Islington’s music scene continues to thrive with the addition of One Eighty One, a new vinyl sanctuary located at 181 Holloway Road. This innovative space, conveniently positioned between Holloway Road and Highbury & Islington stations, offers more than just records, combining a vinyl shop with a café and craft beer bar. The venue marks the first permanent establishment for Rod ‘Spin Doctor’ Gilmore, a veteran London music promoter with deep roots in the local scene.
One Eighty One opens daily at 10 a.m., welcoming music enthusiasts to browse its carefully curated collection that specializes in hip-hop, house, and soul genres. The selection spans both vintage and contemporary releases, catering to collectors and casual listeners alike. As evening approaches, the space transforms into a vibrant music venue featuring DJs and live performances, creating a seamless shift from daytime shopping to nightlife entertainment.
From sunrise crate-digging to sunset beats, One Eighty One bridges vinyl shopping and nightlife in one seamless musical journey.
The establishment officially opened on December 12 with a launch party that featured several DJs and complimentary drinks for early guests. One Eighty One prides itself on its unpretentious atmosphere, offering craft beer, cocktails, wine, and quality coffee in a friendly environment designed for both serious music collectors and locals seeking a comfortable place to gather.
While newcomers like One Eighty One bring fresh energy to Islington, established businesses like Flashback Records continue to serve the area’s vinyl enthusiasts. Located at 50 Essex Road since 1997, Flashback operates on two floors, with new releases upstairs and a basement dedicated to second-hand and collectible vinyl. The manager expresses that the joy of discovery is what keeps the store vibrant after nearly 20 years in business. The store is particularly renowned for its extensive rock collection and accurate grading system that builds trust with customers. Like its sister locations in Shoreditch and Crouch End, Flashback Islington offers a treasure trove experience for music lovers seeking both new and rare vinyl finds. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Flashback has built a reputation as a “crate digger’s paradise” with fair pricing and knowledgeable staff.
Together, these businesses contribute to Islington’s thriving music retail landscape, offering diverse experiences for record collectors while fostering community through shared appreciation of vinyl culture, despite ongoing challenges in the music retail industry.
