Moon Rock Records

Moon Rock Records offers a relaxed environment for customers to peruse hundreds of records in every genre imaginable. Customers will not find any CDs at this downtown music store as owner Callie Dean strives to highlight the nostalgic power of vinyl records.  

Callie Dean

This musical escape has not always been available to the Eugene community. In fact, it was about a year and a half ago that Dean realized it was time for a change. Hoping to get away from Portland’s fast-paced and crowded lifestyle, Dean began searching Craigslist for potential job opportunities. She happened to stumble upon a posting offering 50 percent ownership of a small record store in Eugene with living space available on the second floor. With past experience working in record stores and a love for all things music since she was little, the job seemed like a perfect fit.

“I was just looking to live alone but then I saw that this was a live-work space and I was like, oh maybe I can make that happen” said Dean.

Today, Moon Rock Records is a cozy, well-curated shop located in downtown Eugene. Customers are sure to find what they are looking for with a collection of music ranging from the 1920s to current artists. Genres covering everything from punk to pop fill the shelves of the shop. Dean explained that Moon Rock tries to have affordable prices so that anyone can indulge in their love for music. Customers are also able to listen to records before purchase thanks to a listening nook at the front of the store. This unique aspect allows customers to explore new genres of music and expand their knowledge.

“I like the idea of the store being a library of sorts,” said Dean. “People can come here and not know anything about Jazz and listen to the Jazz records.”

The store occasionally hosts local bands but due to the size, Dean notes that this is often difficult. She hopes that more people of all ages will come downtown to enjoy live music.

In terms of the future of Moon Rock Records, Dean is determined to continue to cultivate a relaxing environment for those from all musical backgrounds to come enjoy, chat, and broaden their music taste.

"I feel really lucky. I used to work for a few different record stores and it’s cool to finally do my own version of it,” said Dean.

Looking for a new artist to listen to? Dean recommends Lee Moses. For more information, check out Moon Rock Records on Facebook and Instagram.

Photos courtesy of Ceili Cornelius

Written for Allen Hall Public Relations