 Ray's Jazz ShopAll that jazz!
Address: 113-119 Charing Cross Road - First Floor, Foyles Bookshop
WC2H 0EB - Soho/West End
London
Nearest Bus or Train:Tottenham Court Road
Open Hours:9:30a-9p M-Sa, noon-6p Su
Gazing in through the dusty windows dressed with old record sleeves and posters, you can really sense the history of this little London institution. Stepping inside is like stepping back in time… no hyped-up promotion, bright lights and flashing video screens here. Ray's is the definition of an independent jazz record store, with unfussy isles, wooden floors and an imposing old-style counter where you'll find friendly, unrushed service. It probably hasn't changed much since opening in 1982, except for the addition of the blues and folk basement. The sense of timelessness and tradition befitting the music sold does not however detract from the huge choice of CDs and vinyl, ranging from second-hand to the latest releases. What's more, there's always a feeling that a lost, rare recording is just waiting to be found in one of the racks. In reality though this would never happen, because Ray's staff are as knowledgeable as it gets, and a section named "Rare as hen's teeth" takes you right to these musical curios.
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