Vinyl Variety: Elaine Mai Fires off Three of Her Favourite Irish Record Shops

With her latest offerings, it feels like Elaine Mai has hit on a special “moment” in her career. She recently released her new single “The Moment,” featuring singer-songwriter soft centre. Originally written as a lead vocal for a different project, Mai enlivened the track with her unique songwriting abilities. Mai is a queer artist, producer, and songwriter from Dublin who has been performing as a solo acoustic act since 2011. Back then, it was just her with a guitar and loop pedal. Now, she has evolved into a powerhouse electronic artist, which has helped her demonstrate her unique talents as a producer.

Although she has been active as an artist and producer for over a decade, Mai didn’t release her debut album Home until the fall of 2021. It was well worth the wait, an arsenal of unique electronic tracks that was applauded as one of the year’s best electronic releases. The album received two RTE Choice Music Prize nominations for song and album of the year. Mai is currently finishing the highly anticipated follow-up to Home, with other projects also in the works.

Joining us today for a new edition of Vinyl Variety is Elaine Mai herself to share with us a few of her favourite record shops.

“Hey everyone, my name is Elaine Mai, I’m an artist and producer based in Ireland and I’ve put together my top three record stores in Ireland for you to check out. Each of these spots is well worth a visit, but don’t blame me if you come away a few euros lighter!”

1. Bell, Book and Candle (Google Maps)
Address: Small Crane, Galway, Ireland
Website: http://www.instagram.com/bellbookcandlegalway
Phone: +353 91 589 060

“In the heart of Galway (arguably the nicest spot in Ireland), Bell, Book and Candle is a must-visit in the city’s west end. Galway was my home for well over ten years, and I will always have a soft spot for it. The west end is brimming with culture, things to do, venues, amazing places to eat etc. and Bell, Book and Candle is the perfect place to spend a few hours. Independent record stores offer something unique, they are driven by a passion and love for the art and this place is the perfect example of that. Make it a point to visit if you ever come to Galway.”

2. Tower Records Dublin (Google Maps)
Address: 7 Dawson St, Dublin, Ireland, D02 X688
Website: http://www.towerrecords.ie
Phone: +353 1 671 3250

“Dublin’s iconic Tower Records is on the list for a reason. Their extensive collection and the amazing staff make it a very special place to visit. They do an amazing job supporting Irish acts, and you can always see what’s new and hot by looking in the window. They also do some amazing in-store performances. I had the pleasure of DJing there for the release of my album Home. Plan for a few hours if you are visiting; it’s big!”

3. Rollercoaster Records (Google Maps)
Address: St Kieran’s St, Gardens, Kilkenny, Ireland, R95 F950
Website: http://rollercoasterrecordskk.com
Phone: +353 56 776 3669

“Kilkenny (arguably the second nicest spot in Ireland) is another gorgeous place to visit. If you make it there, don’t miss Rollercoaster Records. It’s more than just a record store, it’s also a label, with some impressive artists on the roster including Arborist. Their recent pop-up at Hedge School gave me another opportunity to see what they have on offer, and this feels like another spot that’s built on passion and the love of the art. Another perfect spot to wile away the day.”

Elaine Mai “The Moment” single artwork