Tucked into the storybook charm of downtown Solvang, Off the Record Vinyl & Vintage is more than a record store—it’s a curated experience that bridges generations through music, design, and nostalgia. Located upstairs in Jensen’s Copenhagen Square, this family-run shop invites visitors to slow down, browse, and reconnect with the tactile joy of analog sound.
The shop was founded in May 2024 by father-and-son duo Mike and Vince Casey and was born from a pandemic-era passion project. Mike, a longtime film industry prop master, began amassing vintage audio gear during lockdown. Encouraged by his kids, who joked he had enough to open a store, he transformed a former stained-glass workshop into a retro haven. Together, Mike and Vince painted walls, built record racks, and curated a collection that now draws music lovers from across the Central Coast.
Inside, the shop is a feast for the senses. Rows of both new and used vinyl span genres from obscure jazz and classic rock to contemporary artists like Taylor Swift and Kendrick Lamar. The inventory also includes 45s, cassettes, CDs, and a range of vintage and modern audio equipment from brands like Pioneer, Marantz, and Sansui. Beyond music, shoppers can discover band tees, retro barware, and other vintage treasures.
The ambiance evokes a bygone era. Concert posters and instruments adorn the walls, while vintage chairs and lighting fixtures create a cozy, lived-in feel. A nook by the window doubles as a stage for live music performances, a nod to Mike’s days working at Tower Records on Sunset Boulevard. “I remember the in-store concerts at Tower Records, and I loved them,” he recalls. Hosting local musicians was a natural extension of that legacy.
Off the Record appeals to a diverse clientele. While seasoned collectors appreciate the meticulously curated selection, younger visitors are discovering vinyl for the first time. Watching them discover the warmth of analog sound and the ritual of a needle drop is something Mike never tires of.
Mike believes vinyl endures because it offers something digital formats can't: presence. From the album artwork to the subtle crackle between tracks, records invite listeners to engage deeply with music. In an age of streaming and instant gratification, Off the Record offers a sanctuary for intentional listening.
Whether you're a longtime audiophile or a curious newcomer, Off the Record beckons you to explore music's rich tapestry in a setting that celebrates the past while embracing the present.
Visit Off the Record Vinyl & Vintage at 446 Alisal Rd., upstairs in Jensen’s Copenhagen Square, Solvang. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Follow @offtherecordvinylvintage on Instagram for updates on new arrivals and live events.