Jerk Dog Records

Jerk Dog Records is a small independent record shop in Bradenton with a strong local identity and a noticeable focus on music outside the mainstream. The store supports local bands, carries a mix of new and used vinyl, and also stocks CDs, tapes, books, zines, clothing, and art.

Interview

Jerk Dog Records is a small, focused shop with a real role in the Bradenton community. What does that community connection look like day to day?

I try to be a safe place for everyone (except bigots and homophobes, you can be those things but i won't tolerate your expression of your bigotry in my store) and i support local bands by encouraging them to put up flyers and sell their music fee free in the store.

What kinds of used records are most useful for your bins right now?

I am not particular when it comes to used records. I love getting weird stuff but the classics always sell. i've had collections that were amazing jazz or reggae or death metal or punk but mostly i get what everyone bought (beatles, stones, fleetwood mac, eagles, etc) and those things sell across generations.

When someone wants to sell a collection, what information should they send before showing up with boxes?

Calling and giving me an idea helps. If it's a bunch of lawrence welk i have to pass. i have a small space and limited storage so i turn away a lot. Even when someone brings in a collection that has things i can use there is a lot i don't want so i tell them in advance i will only pay for what i can use and the rest i can return or take to a charity thrift store.

Do you buy full collections, select individual titles, or does it depend entirely on the records?

Totally depends. most collections break down about 75% discount records and the rest $10 and up. Many people falsely assume their records have more value than they do, i blame ebay for this false assumption. if someone lets me pick what i want they can get a higher value per record but most people want to get rid of the entire collection so i am always upfront about what i am paying for. i itemize all the records so i can show them what i am paying and what i hope to get out of it. i give 50% of what i hope to sell them for.

Are there genres or local/regional records you pay special attention to?

I am always just excited to see things that aren't common. 1st pressings, rare blues or punk or metal. early blue note jazz. recently bought a collection of early pressing post punk from the late 80s and early 90s and that was super cool. helped the seller out who was going to take them to goodwill and just stopped by to see if i was interested. was able to give a couple thousand dollars that went to the record collection owner's hospice care.

What condition problems do sellers most often underestimate?

Obviously the records have to be in playable condition but people many times will have trashed or missing sleeves and think i want to buy just the records.

What's the most memorable collection that's come through your door?

Huge collection of reggae from England and Jamaica dating back to the early 60s. Lps, 7in singles, and 12" singles. Not only was it the first really valuable collection i ever bought but it was also like a history lesson in music i thought i new about.

What would you want a first-time visitor to Jerk Dog Records to know before they stop in?

One we're not a typical store. I am located in an artist community and the store is attached to my house. there isn't a typical store front there isn't typical parking situation (street parking only and if it's busy in the neighborhood you'll have to walk a bit), you have to walk up the driveway to the back of the house. the entrance is to my old porch which i've remodeled. many people are surprised that when they walk in it's not just boxes of records but a nicely displayed organized store.

FAQ

What kind of store is Jerk Dog Records?

Jerk Dog is not a typical storefront. It sits in an artist neighborhood, with street parking and an entrance around the back of the house.

What records are most useful if someone wants to sell?

Uncommon records stand out most, including rare blues, punk, metal, early Blue Note jazz, first pressings, and strong reggae collections.

What should a seller do before bringing records over?

Calling first helps because the store has limited space and may only buy part of a collection.

Do you buy whole collections or just selected titles?

It depends on the records. Jerk Dog may take a full collection or select only the records that fit the shop.

What should first-time visitors know before stopping by?

Expect a neighborhood shop with personality rather than a conventional retail setup, and plan for street parking.

Last updated: 2026-07-09