Keep up with LAist. If you’re enjoying this article, you’ll love our daily newsletter, The LA Report. Each weekday, catch up on the 5 most pressing stories to start your morning in 3 minutes or less. Sign Up Nearly a year ago, Austin Manuel opened his Pasadena record store with an ambitious goal: to close the gap between big industry and new music. The singer-songwriter grew up around his dad’s vinyl collection in Nashville, Tennessee. In 2017, he made a tour stop in L.A. and stayed. From there, he regularly booked shows at Club Tee Gee in Atwater, and became steeped in the local music scene. He felt the importance of physical spaces in bringing people together firsthand.
He started a music production company, and soon after, he started a record label. Manuel’s journey began with a deep passion for music and a desire to create a platform for artists. He saw the challenges musicians faced in the industry, particularly in securing gigs and getting their music heard. He wanted to be a part of the solution, not just a bystander.
I want to be a hub for artists, makers, and creators of all kinds. I want to offer a variety of services, including workshops, classes, and exhibitions. I want to create a space where people can learn, grow, and connect with each other. I envision a space that is both inspiring and practical, where creativity can flourish and practical skills can be honed.
Most notably, Wilco guitarist Nels Cline and noted jazz trumpeter Bobby Bradford — musicians whom Manuel has long admired. In the confines of the cozy store, the three shared ideas and celebrated Bradford’s 90th birthday. “Building a relationship with [Bradford]…having him be inspired by the space, and being like, ‘this is gonna be the place,’ to have his blessing…feels really cool. But I think what really makes me excited is when people do come in for the first time, they immediately are thinking of what they could do here.” How he designed the space Manuel was deliberate in creating a space that is intimate and inviting — a blend between someone’s living room and a sleek art salon.
**A Haven for Music Lovers: The Art of Store Layout**
**The Modern Counter:
To the record store’s left, a sleek, modern counter with a glass display case houses a curated selection of new releases. The store’s layout is designed to encourage exploration and discovery. The shelves are arranged in a way that allows customers to easily browse and find what they’re looking for.
The store is a hub for creativity and community.
* **Manuel: The Customer-Centric Venue Champion**
* **Beyond the Performance:
Manuel’s commitment to his customers is evident in his attentiveness and responsiveness, making sure every detail is taken care of. He’s not afraid to go the extra mile to ensure customer satisfaction. He’ll personally check in with customers after their show, to see how they enjoyed their experience. He’s also a passionate advocate for the venue, promoting its unique selling points and sharing its history and story.
* Through their unique blend of vinyl records and live performances, Healing Force of the Universe creates a unique tapestry of sonic experiences that resonate deeply with listeners, leading them to a deeper understanding of themselves. The text highlights the band’s eclectic mix of vinyl records and live performances as evidence of their commitment to self-discovery. This juxtaposition suggests a deliberate intention to explore diverse musical experiences and connect with listeners on multiple levels.