Vinyl Revival [Athens]

Vinyl Revival in Athens, Alabama, concentrates on the owner’s core strengths in 1960s and 1970s rock and pop. In this interview, Keith Montgomery talks about the records that hold value, instinctive collection buying, and the occasional exception he keeps for himself.

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Interview with Vinyl Revival [Athens]

Vinyl Revival — where does the name come from, and what's the shop about?

I "borrowed" the name from the internet.

You're in Athens, up in north Alabama near Huntsville. What role does the shop play locally, and who's coming through?

I don't know where they come from but I'm glad they do! But yes, Athens and surrounding areas.

What's the heart of the bins — what do you carry the most of?

I tend to concentrate on my small window of knowledge which is 60's/70's rock and pop.

Before you've priced anything, what tips you off that a collection's worth digging into?

I see a lot of records, so I think it's instinct that aids me.

What do sellers most often overvalue — the record they're certain is a payday that isn't?

Exactly. I think sellers (and buyers) find the price they want. If some yahoo lists a $20.00 record for $60.00, then the sellers seem to think that "that's what they are going for."

And what quietly sells for more than people expect?

Sealed albums hold value.

Do people who take store credit actually come back and spend it, or does a lot of it sit on the books?

Generally I'm cash and carry. It's yours once you leave with it. But of course there are occasional returns, which I make right by the buyer.

Alabama heat and humidity are rough on records. What condition damage do you see most?

Mold.

Has anything ever come through that you almost couldn't believe was real?

On occasion. Recently, a Nick Drake album. I rarely keep records for myself but this was an exception.

Someone's spending a day in town — what else nearby is worth their time while they're at the shop?

A couple of local eateries.

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Last updated: 2026-10-04

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