New Vinyl Records to My Collection! Thelonious Monk, Bob James & David Sanborn, Mozart

A trip to Joo Chiat Rd under the flaming hot sun. An unexpected detour (and an escape from hot weather) turned into a treasure hunt!

Last Saturday, I went to Katong for the Peranakan event in i12 but basically ended up sightseeing on Joo Chiat Road. It has been on my wishlist for quite some time, as I only see the block from the bus window every time I pass. Mainly because I was curious about the boutiques and the cafes, though.

I was so lucky to wind up at Cherry Lane Records and find records from my favourite artists! Confession: While I do own and collect vinyl records, I was not actively looking for one that day. In fact, I ended up here because I was walking by to cross the street (I can’t jaywalk lol) and continuously seeking shade in shops while also browsing casually.

I listen to jazz and classics, albeit rather casually for the former. Old, pre-owned record shops usually have collections of old music, and I enjoy the process of discovering them from there. I remember back in Brisbane, I often went to the record store in King George Square to browse around without buying anything. I just love listening to new old music.

Now, let me share what I bought!~

Thelonious Monk’s Greatest Hits

Artist: Thelonious Monk

Although I am new to jazz, I have been casually listening to random playlists on streaming sites. But when I shuffled to Monk, it was the first time a jazz artist caught my attention. The kind store assistant, who noticed me browsing through the jazz stack, helped me search for Thelonious Monk’s album and found this! I actually was looking for Criss Cross (at that time, I did not remember the name, just telling her that “the cover is beige and red” 😂), but when they offered to play the record, I liked this just the same. Amazing, amazing album!!

Double Vision

Bob James and David Sanborn

This one is recommended by the owner who, after finding out I like jazz, shared that this one is his favourite jazz album. He said, Bob James and David Sanborn are legends on their own respective instruments, keyboard and alto saxaphone. I would say this type is a bit new to the ones I usually listen to, but pleasant and smooth. I enjoyed the backstory he shared and how enthusiastic he was with jazz, which is an additional reason I chose to bring this one home too.

W.A. Mozart Six Sonates Pour Clavecin & Flute

Artist(s): Robert Veyron-Lacroix and Jean-Pierre Rampal

This album is from French classical musicians. I used to play flute and collected Mozart records for a while too, so it was kind of an automatic decision to pick this one. Mozart’s Sonata No. 4 in F Major KV. 13 is a duet of flute and piano. I believe many music schools use this particular piece as the practice routine, which I can understand. While I won’t say it is easy, this one is a simple flute-led piece accompanied by a piano. It’s simple, sweet, and playful. I can imagine listening to this while working or chilling in the afternoon with a good cup of tea.

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I am super happy with my purchase. But my favourite part was my experience at the store with the kind shop assistant and the uncle owner, who were so kindly accommodating to my needs and questions. Also for sharing their favourites and music recommendations.

They even offered me a chair to sit while browsing records and a place to put my bag so it won’t get dirty on the floor. I deeply touched ’cause nowadays it is rather rare to find people who treat me this kindly 🥲 They also let me play records and take time to enjoy it before deciding to buy 💛

If you collect vinyl records or want to browse to find new music to listen to, I highly recommend giving Cherry Lane Records Singapore a visit. They are super helpful, communicative, and welcoming. I will leave their address down below:

Cherry Lane Records, 387 Joo Chiat Rd, Singapore 427623. Phone: 88990387