Laurie's Planet of Sound

Laurie's Planet of Sound is a long-running Lincoln Square record shop with an intentionally unpretentious feel: deep stock, used new arrivals, movies, CDs, DVDs, books, and magazines without the gatekeeping. The store buys collections across music, movies, and books, and encourages sellers to call first before bringing items in.

In this interview, Matt talks about the store's old-school feel, Chicago collections, used bins, International Anthem, and the kind of oddball finds that make Laurie's feel like Laurie's.

Interview with Laurie's Planet of Sound

Laurie's has been a Lincoln Square fixture for decades - the kind of shop people describe to out-of-towners. What keeps the personality intact after all these years?

A lot of customers mention when visiting our store that they feel like they're stepping back into the 80s or 90s when they come through our doors. We have a timeless feel that is very appealing and it makes sense because a lot of the music and movies we carry are equally timeless!

The store has always felt gleefully unsnobby - deep stock without attitude. Is that deliberate?

We are deliberately unpretentious with customers because if you're buying physical copies of something you love, you're cool in our book! No judgments whatsoever.

What do your regulars dig for - and how has the Lincoln Square crowd changed over the years?

Our regulars are always looking for great deals on used records. We make sure to undercut Discogs and our used LP new arrival bins are right at the front of the store so always be sure to check there first thing! It's always stocked with gems and they sell fast so grab it when you see it! I guarantee it won't be there next time you come back.

Chicago's music history comes at you from every direction - blues, soul, punk, house, indie. What actually shows up in the collections people bring in?

Most of the collections that show up are tried and true classics from the 70s. Someone's Dad's old records. But that's the kind of music most of our customers are looking for, so it's a great fit!

What's been quietly strong in the bins lately?

We are huge fans of the modern jazz label International Anthem. They feature a lot of Chicago artists and everything they put out is incredible! We highly recommend checking them out. Our used CDs and DVD sections are also very popular. We like to keep them affordable, and with everyone getting so fed up with streaming services, they really fly off the shelves.

When someone wants to sell records, what's the best way to start with you - and what makes a collection an easy yes?

We are always buying collections, whether it's music, movies, or books. It's very helpful when the person is familiar with the titles they have and the conditions. It's also appreciated to call us first and explain what you have. We have to review everything in person, but it's easier on the seller if we can weed out what we're not interested in.

What's a find or a customer moment that could only have happened at Laurie's?

Today we sold a 4 pack of Alf cereal box flexi discs from the 80s. I can't imagine too many other stores would have those!

First visit - besides the records, what should people take a minute to notice?

People should definitely check out our movie selection. Everyone on staff is as equally into movies as we are music and it is very well curated. We also have a great selection of old music and movie magazines. So grab some of your favorite flicks and then read about the making of them right after!

FAQ

Does Laurie's Planet of Sound buy collections?

Yes. The shop is always buying collections, including music, movies, and books.

What should sellers do first?

Call first and explain what you have. Laurie's reviews everything in person, but a phone conversation helps identify what the store is likely to be interested in.

What sells strongly at Laurie's?

Used LP new arrivals are a major draw, and the store also notes strong interest in International Anthem, used CDs, and DVDs.

What should a first-time visitor check besides records?

The movie section and old music/movie magazines are both worth a look.

Last updated: 2026-07-16