Clarity Records

As a kid, Matt Horvath spent hours exploring the world of music with his grandparents’ record player. When he and wife Laura saw record stores declining around them, they decided to go against the odds and open one in 2010.

Clarity Records has since become an Adelaide institution, providing shelf space to independent bands with a particular focus on local music. If someone asks to be stocked, they'll give them a shot, no matter the sound or previous exposure.

After 12 years trading out of their petite Pulteney Street shop, the Horvaths expanded into the tenancy next door (previously occupied by gift shop The Tangerine Fox) and introduced an all-ages live music space for tiny-desk style concerts, plus a dedicated video channel in 2021.

Around 5,000 new and second-hand records are categorised by genres such as punk, classic rock, hardcore and metal. Popular labels include Run For Cover Records and Poison City Records. The shop also stocks band tees, zines, cassettes and badges.

Thankfully, there’s a listening station to help you navigate the possibilities. Before you listen to anything, though, it’s worth chatting to the staff. It offers the personable, expert knowledge that comes with being truly passionate about music.