Why You Need To Check Out Melbourne's Wah Wah Records

Wah Wah Records opens on Smith Street next month, and prior to its launch, we caught up with owner/operator Ben Treyvaud to get an idea of what to expect.

Tell us a little bit about yourself…

Music is my life, something I used to write at the top of every CV I have ever sent in - maybe that's why I didn't get that many callbacks... I have been playing in bands and solo on and off for over 10 years, and have been a music photographer, managed a couple of bands, been a sound engineer for venues around Melbourne, and most recently worked in music publishing, whilst studying, interning at labels, drinking before 5pm and spending rent on vinyls.

When did your obsession with vinyl first begin?

Hard to say, but I do remember putting my ear to my dad's record player when I was very young, and as the speakers were broken, I just listened to the small amount of sound coming from the needle hitting the vinyl. Love at first sight, I guess.

Give us a bit of a quick Wah Wah Records history lesson…

Well, I guess it can be traced back to being exposed to my parents' record collection. I was lucky enough to be brought up on Motown's vast catalogue from mum and then Dylan and Midnight Oil from dad, whilst meeting in the middle with The Beatles. I've had a record store in my head for years and it was time to share it with more people.

What can music lovers expect when they enter Wah Wah Records?

A big selection of LPs, 45s and boxsets, as it's only vinyl, but hopefully an atmosphere where you can come in listen to some records - there are two record players people can spin on, and just hang out and chat to like-minded music lovers and get turned onto something you may not have heard. I'm looking forward to that.

What sort of music do you focus on and why?

A big focus on '60s and '70s rock'n'roll and rhythm & blues, but also really supporting Australian music, whether it's Normie Rowe, Hoodoo Gurus or Alex The Astronaut. Why? because it's important to promote and celebrate Australian music, both older and current - and it's fucking great! 

What’s your ultimate goal with Wah Wah Records?

The only goal is to turn people onto music, specifically through the medium of vinyl, for as long as I can.

What do you have planned for Record Store Day?

Vinyl, laugher, chatting, singing, dancing and vinyl.

Anything else you’d like to add?

What's in your Wah Wah?