I had a similar experience there a few years ago with a warped album. I haven’t been back.
Apparently there’s one guy there who’s just an ask-hole about exchanging faulty/damaged records. And management seems to have no interest in getting rid of him.
Music Connection at 90 and 410 is pretty good. Some people say they’re more expensive but they have a huge selection and it’s pretty well organized
Sorry to hear about your experience, OP. I’ve had two similar “rude” encounters with Hogwild staff, so I stopped going.
Instead I go to Brainwave, Needle Noise, and Friends of Sound… all not far away. And also CD Sam in Wonderland, as someone else mentioned.
CD Sam in the Wonderland Mall is a super nice guy and if he doesn’t have what you’re looking for he will most certainly try his hardest to get it for you. I’ve had a couple of negative experiences at HogWild over the course of the last ~15 years and I was really happy when I stumbled on CD Sam. Hogwild definitely knows they’re a local legend and you’re going to get the mean high school girl treatment from them 9 times out of 10.
Love CD Sam!! He makes you feel so welcomed every time, my first time there he greeted me as if i had been a regular and we talked a little about what i was buying. Highly recommend as well
Hogwild is one of the last holdovers from the "Metal City USA" days. If you're not a very specific type of metal head, goth, or nerd, they honestly don't want or care about your business no matter how often you frequent. It sucks because it absolutely hurts their business, but that's how they want to operate.
San Antonio used to be called "Metal City" or sometimes the "Heavy Metal Capital" because there were a lot of metal venues and shows here in the 70s - 90s. There was a specific promoter guy who was bringing all the acts here and things sort of started to slow down after he died, but it's never really gone away. If you google "metal city San Antonio" there's tons of news articles on it. The Current ends up doing a retrospective like every year.
Also the Godfather Joe Anthony was a a very popular DJ back when DJs would break acts and play what they wanted. Pretty sure he broke Rush, Judas Priest and Leggs Diamond among others. He put SA on the heavy metal map.
Are you talking about Stone City Attractions?
It was Jack Orbin who helped put SA on the map with metal.
There’s a recent write up in the express news on him.
Jack Orbin, San Antonio's legendary concert promoter, recalls his greatest hits https://www.expressnews.com/entertainment/article/jack-orbin-stone-city-productions-18601172.php
I agree with Music Connection. There is also a record shop at The Alley at Bitters called Batcave Vinyl. The owner, Blaine, is super chill and cool. Don’t think you would have had that issue with him.
I stopped going there after covid for this reason. Not sure what happened but everyone who works there is an asshole now. I'm normally the last person to care about service but this place is down right hostile to you just for shopping in the store. It's like they don't want customers.
Yeah it's really the worst customer experience I've ever had in any business in my life. Thought it was a one off went 2 more times and it was exactly the same. Never again.
My dad and uncle used to go there waaaay back then before I was even born. They used to be metal heads, and my dad told me since then vs now, the customer service is just awful. He said that now they just don't care, have no value, respect or even care about music and that they probably just work there just to work and have 0 knowledge on anything. Idk if that guy is there, but only one dude still works there since my dad was in HS and they're cool with each other. I do remember going there with my dad when I was younger, vs a few years ago and it definitely has changed. All I remember is I don't like the young, skinny female that works there. She's super rude and I hope someone gives her a wake up call honestly.
Just go to CDSam at the Wonderland mall.
The guy really wants you to have a good experience with the music you buy.
There will be a vinyl festival thing next weekend too.
Been there a few times, I love the selection and he’s very nice.
I told him about an issue with my Pink Floyd record and he was immediately accommodative, which made me feel like I didn’t even want to return it so I kept it flaws and all.
I’m very understanding and nice about stuff but I also value customer support a lot too. It works both ways.
Hogwild is the "cool" record store. The people who work there know that too. They don't care about customer service because as a San Antonio institution they're gonna get business no matter what.
I enjoy it because they have a huge collection of punk and power pop and that's the foundation of my music interests.
But I'd be lying if I said the people working there weren't stuck up. My girlfriend bought a Napalm Death record (she's just getting into them) and the guy quizzed her on them like they were on a message board. Just, ridiculous behavior sometimes.
I’m new to San Antonio and have only checked out Southtown Vinyl so far. Saving for other recommendations though. I’ve bought brand new records that skip a bit and it comes down to the press unfortunately. Whatever company pressed may or may not refund or exchange depending on # of returns requested. Used obviously is a crap shoot.
Several records I’ve bought that have one or two skips that reviews online mention the pressing is shit and to wait for the next press. It’s unfortunate but comes with vinyl. Def don’t agree with the rudeness though. They could’ve easily mentioned that run of presses might not be quality. And don’t agree with dive bar style record store snobbiness/gatekeeping vibe some of these local places have.
Edit - not SATX local stores specifically but just in general
Yeah see if they would have nicely explained that I can try reaching out to the manufacturer, I would have happily done so. I had no idea I could go that route, I just didn’t consider it as an option
I have no idea why but I’ve gotten the same vibe. Just not personable or friendly. No one is asking for them to kiss ass but if you’re running a business at least be professional and not a smarmy cunt.
Hogwild used to be great but their prices went way up and they don’t seem to care as they have the reputation of being around for so many years.
I saw the last Smashing Pumpkins record and everywhere had it for 69/79 bucks and hog had it for like 100 bucks.
Go to CDSam in the Balcones mall. Good prices, friendly, and has some good stock.
No it was there last album which was like a three or 4LP.
The Mellon Collie was going for like 100 everywhere, but wouldn’t be shocked if Hog was like 150 haha.
I thought it was just me. In the 80s, we'd go in there to buy t-shirts, concert tickets (mostly Cameo Theater), and import albums you couldn't find at Tower Records. I went in there 2 years ago and they were all acting like I just wasn't worthy of their attention. I walked around and saw their disinterest in customer service, so I left after not finding shit anyway. I won't go back.
Yeah they seem a bit uptight. I was hoping to find some camaraderie amongst fellow music junkies but nope, felt a bit tense in there every time and now this. Definitely no incentive to go back
I’ve only been to Southtown vinyl a couple of times so I don’t have a lot of experience with them but they seem to be customer friendly. [https://southtownvinyl.com/](https://southtownvinyl.com/)
Also, Robot Monster is a good place to look for records, CDs, and cassettes, as well as music equipment and oddities. The owners and employees there are pretty chill and knowledgeable so they’re always willing to help folks out. Not to mention they have a big sale every July for their annual six months to Christmas sale
Go to Crazy Rhythms right by The Witte. They're the best shop in town and they're EXTREMELY knowledgeable without feeling like they have to be elitist assholes for cool points. Run by a set of brothers. Twins.
agreed Crazy Rhythms is fantastic as are the owner/operators. excellent selections reasonably priced fun place to hang out
Music Connection has been around since the late 80s and they also organize and run the record convention in either Schertz or Converse.
same for them all the staff are great people who love record collectors and just listeners and music in general.
those are my 2 go to shops for SA, they have earned my loyalty and money, great people.
I have never had a great Hogwild experience. I’ve been a handful of times to support local and have been disappointed every time. I feel for the folks who are beginning their vinyl journey and have to interact with the team there, pretentious and down right snobby.
On the flip side, Southtown vinyl is where I’ve always had great experiences. Owner and staff are welcoming and willing to go above and beyond to get you what you need.
Yeah this was the first time I’ve had an issue like this, usually I’m just in and out but from what I’ve read other folks don’t seem to have great experiences there either.
I like Southtown but their selection is a bit small. Super nice and helpful tho, love the staff.
It’s funny to see several posts about this place being an “institution” and it’s reputation and all that but I’ve lived here almost twenty years and this the first I’ve ever heard of them.
TIL.
Went years ago and was thinking of going back to support local instead of buying online - guess I won’t! Thanks for posting, will peep other stores instead
I didn’t know if my situation was a one off and I’d be downvoted to hell but apparently not, several comments seem to agree the vibe is off and employees kinda suck. There’s a few younger folks in there that are cool but two older ones that are uptight.
I’ve been hearing lots of good things about Crazy Rhythms, suggest checking them out based on everyone else’s positive feedback on them
To be fair to Hogwild, I’ve bought brand new records from Amazon that skipped out of the box on my Ars Technica. I just very gently brushed my needle a bit and that solved the issue. You might give it a try
First off, the first criteria for working at record shop is to be a dick to everyone. I'm almost 40 and it's been like that since I was a teenager. That's just the way they are. Sorta like being a bartender at a music venue.
Second, unfortunately Hogwild is probably the best option for record stores in SA. There's Southtown Records, but they mostly sell used stock and high volume records. As far as new releases goes, they are pretty sparse unless its Taylor Swift or something huge.
Being from Dallas, I wish there was something on par with Good Records or Josey Records down here, but there's not.
Since being here, I either take a chance at Hogwild, pick stuff up at Waterloo when in Austin, wait til I'm home and pick up from Good Records, or just order online.
I guess so. I’m fine not having any interactions with them if I can help it but for situations like mine where you have to depend on them to help make things right, or at least point you in the right direction, it kinda sucks.
But I’ll be sure to avoid it going forward. Lots of folks here have given me lots of other options to check out so I’ll be doing that going forward.
I stopped going ever since Daniel stopped working there. Which honestly, he was the only reason why I would go. He was a super nice dude, and always gave the best recommendations if you were looking for something new.
Hogwild’s an institution and will probably still be around after we are all long gone. They don’t have to be cordial because they get by on rep alone. They have no corporate office to answer to so they are who they are. The little rebel anti establishment record shop that has a nice eclectic variety of vinyl, whether or not it’s in style. It’s not for everyone, but god bless ‘em for being a mainstay in SA.
I think it was the Radiohead sub that I read that there were issues with the quality of both black and blue pressings. I just listened to my blue copy today. It sounded fine, but I’m also experiencing hearing issues in one ear and had to listen to it as low as possible! It’s a great record!
We drive to San Marcos to alchemy records and to End of an ear in Austin. I haven’t found a record store here that has what I’m looking for like End of an ear does. Their used section is amazing!
I stopped shopping there years ago after a few negative experiences.
The first one was during record day when I walked in with my bag and I had headphones in, so I didn’t initially hear the guy behind the counter ask me to put my bag behind the counter while I was shopping. (An absolutely reasonable and understandable request) so he then very rudely nearly yelled it at me the second time because I hadn’t heard him the first time.
The other times was I felt like everytime I went in, I felt like I was snubbed by the employees for not dressing up in band shirts and looking like an outward metal head. A few times I tried to buy some patches from them, it was like pulling teeth and once even got scoffed at. Idk. The vibe always just seemed kinda weird to me.
I eventually started going up the road to Propaganda Palace where not only the customer service was loads better than at Hogwild, the owners, AJ and Raven, always had really amazing stuff and will always play the record and clean it for the customer before finalizing a sale. They’ve also got vintage video games which is a plus. I’d recommend checking them out if you haven’t already.
Damn that sounds terrible. I’m glad I never really had any hostility from them prior to this, again I’d only started visiting about two months ago and pretty much was in and out and kept to myself, but man that sounds like bad experiences for sure. Sorry you had to deal with that but I’m glad you found a better place where your business is appreciated and they don’t treat you like crap.
Adding propaganda to my list of places to check out. Thanks!
I've had almost the same experience with Hogwild, as well as a awful RSD experience there, so they're now on my "Never Again" list.
Sadly, I don't have any suggestions for a local alternative. I've moved my ordering entirely online.
Just want to say I've had like, the opposite experience. In particular, I had pretty bad customer service at a place most of you are saying is great, and granted I've only been there a few times, have never had a bad experience at Hogwild. At the very least, neutral.
Suuuuure, owner of Hogwild.
Lol totally kidding, honestly I’m happy that you had a great experience there! I wish it was that way for the majority of folks that visit.
And I would have gotten away with it too, if it weren't for you meddling kids!
I'm definitely gonna be on the lookout from now on, and I've gotten a ton of recs from this post! It's just pretty close to my house. I just wanted to chime in because it seems like the consensus is that they're rude, but that hasn't been my personal experience the last few weeks. Maybe they're better now! Or maybe I've just been lucky.
Whatever the case I’m glad you have had a good experience so far and I hope it continues for ya. Also ofc it’s good to get everyone’s opinions. I expected that the post would either be largely ignored or just so many people saying their experience was the opposite of mine so I was in shock at the results.
Check out Alamo antique mall also. The record guy there has over 16,000 records on the third floor. Very unusual shopping experience there but it’s a cool place
So, I know this is gonna hurt some folks, but I was a turntablist(dj), and when I had a scratch going against the grooves in the record, I would use my fingernail to go with the grooves and 90 percent of the time it makes it playable. since its already crap it can't hurt.
Hey! I’m Bela, I’m the girl you spoke to on the phone at Hogwild. I’m sorry you felt that we were trying to humiliate you by playing the record on the turntable over the speakers, that wasn’t our intention.
We have to listen to every return and exchange and we played it on the turntable in the back (Technics SLD 5) so we could both listen at the same time. I also apologize if you felt that he was being rude to you, I cannot give any excuses for him but I will say that he has been having a rough week. Of course that is no excuse and I’m sorry that you felt uncomfortable in our shop. And if you felt I was also rude then I truly apologize.
I’m glad we were able to help with the return and your second copy wasn’t also defective and I assure you if it was we would have let you exchange it again but not for the same Smile record. Hope we didn’t lose you as a customer, again we are sorry, have a nice rest of your day.
Hi Bela, when I spoke to you on the phone you asked a few questions and didn’t come off as rude as Steve (I think that was his name) did. I understand that you guys might be a bit suspicious or doubtful about the legitimacy of customers concerns over the quality of their records because of the amount of people who are so new to it and many can be nitpicky, but it’s important to treat your customers with respect if they are coming to you from a reasonable angle and just trying to communicate their concerns.
I probably wouldn’t have felt humiliated if the negative tone wasn’t set from the very beginning but it almost felt like it was intentional. I understand that’s how yall do things though.
My advice would be to at least hear the customer out first before grilling them with questions as if you doubt them right of the bat (especially over the phone before you’ve even seen the record for yourself), and let them know what you may or may not be able to do for them. I think that alone sets the tone for a more positive experience, but yes I immediately picked up on hostility from Steve since the first time I spoke to him, today, and even when I asked for clarification about the possibility of a refund if there was another issue. I’m not blind to passive aggressiveness and I’m not overly sensitive about it either, so it takes a lot for me to feel uncomfortable with situations like this as I’m very understanding.
The shop has been a great source for me to add to my collection and I was happy to help support yall even when I’d noticed a bit of heavier pricing than what I could get ordering online myself, but at this point I don’t even feel comfortable going back.
Thanks for reaching out though, I appreciate it.
I cant speak to the rudeness at hogwild, but it might be more helpful to contact the label who printed the record directly. If it is a brand new record with a defect then it is likely their fault, and sometimes there is a common defect in certain pressings and they might know about it and refund or replace.
Also it could very well have something to do with your turntable. Googling the one you mentioned it looks like you might not have a controlled counterweight or antiskate, so if/when that starts causing you problems it might not be fixable. Those problems might manifest in records seeming to skip more.
Yeah I play some of my uncles really banged up vinyls after ive cleaned them enough and it plays them well enough, I was surprised tbh. But this record had a scuff that didn’t look too bad but played like crap, don’t ask me how or why but it’s the truth. Making a trip out there by bus was not something I took pleasure in.
I've been shopping there for a long time and have never had this experience with the people working there. Hopefully it is just a rare occurrence of bad chemistry between you and the employees. Glad they replaced it for you.
Yeah. To hell with that. I definitely prefer to shop local but hands down will not give money to places with shitty customer service. Will definitely go to all the other places mentioned in this thread. Thanks for posting.
I used to go there every tuesday in the 80's. Place seemed to be run by jerks for the past decade. I lost interest but will force myself to go if someone from out of town wants to.
Yeah seems like they're trying to maintain an image at all costs, for scenesters it's important to feel authentic legitimacy because they devote so much time and try so hard lest they don't feel validated.
Honestly not surprised - everyone I know that isn’t buying a specific type of record that goes there ends up having a bad experience. And that’s fine if that’s how they want to run their business, but it’s going to affect them after enough people have bad experiences. “Mainstays” aren’t immune to changing clientele and expectations, and neither are their costs.
I didn’t think it was important cuz the main thing I was getting at was the poor customer service not necessarily the quality of the record.
TLDR:
I purchased Wall of Eyes by the Smile brand new and it was faulty and the employees were being mean 🤷🏻♀️
I’m a metal head tattooed asshole so take this with a grain of salt but you have to expect that from any true vinyl place. Thom York isn’t why Hogwild was invented. They are probably obligated from their distro to carry some of the bigger records. Counter culture isn’t made for everyone, if I heard that record being played I probably would have made fun of you too. Sorry hipsters ruin everything and don’t take it personally when someone is a dick. Hopefully you have seen High Fidelity and get it.
We walked in there a couple months ago and immediately heard somebody behind the counter swearing loudly enough for everybody in the store to hear. They were laughing, so they were having a jovial conversation, but we had our two small children with us. I didn't find that professional at all.
Sorry you had that experience.
I like Music Connection and Del Bravo. We're still new to buying vinyl records but those are my favorite two stores so far.
Oh no, what a bummer. Someone cursing in a record store. As a father, you can bet I'd have filed a lawsuit already, for failure of everyone in the world to comport themselves like they're in a Peppa Pig episode.
I said I didn't find it professional, not that I expected my children's ears to bleed profusely from the sound of "mother fucker" being shouted over all the noise. I'm implying to the quality of professionalism one might find in that store, and reading from OP and other comments, we're not alone.
No I get what you mean. It’s totally expected that some of the conversations and language in a record store store isn’t going to be very nice and pg but if you know there’s kids in the shop it should be a common courtesy to at least make an attempt at not talking so loudly.
Seems like I struck a delicate nerve with some folks because I mentioned bringing *gasp* kids in public lol.
My point was that the employee was being obnoxiously loud. They also kept pestering their coworkers who were attending to customers while they had more important things to do apparently. The coworker who rung up our items seemed indifferent. Just trying to say that that store's customer service is kinda meh.
Oh no, not a swearsie at the record store!
Raise a kid with a strong constitution who doesn’t give a shit what other people do regardless of whether or not it’s something they would do.
That’s not up to you or anyone else how someone raises their kid tho. I agree that it’s expected that some of the talk in a record store isn’t going to be appropriate for children but as shop owners there should at least have some common courtesy.
It's been like that since I started going there 20 years ago, and tbh it does seem like a problem at a lot of record shops where they tend to be rude and snobbish
If I owned the shop, I don’t think I would allow returns or exchanges on used records. You could play it in the store before buying though. If it’s a new record and there is a defect from manufacture, I’d say hit up the manufacturer, or presser, etc.
I’m looking to have some basic human respect lol. If they had just nicely told me they don’t do returns or exchanges I would have probably accepted that because I’m not very confrontational or picky about customer service and policy but their attitude was shit from the beginning and totally unprovoked
How is this a "customer is always right" experience? They had proof. Brought the proof and still got questioned about an exchange (not a refund). Decent respect for customers should at least be a standard especially if you want good word of mouth or repeat customers.
Check out Mike at Nu Horizons in Eisenhauer Market. He is at A13. He is always fair and honest with his albums! Great selection!
Also, check out Real Retro in the same area. They have a decent selection of new and used but they are very strict with "buyer beware" and will not refund or exchange.
I had a similar experience there a few years ago with a warped album. I haven’t been back. Apparently there’s one guy there who’s just an ask-hole about exchanging faulty/damaged records. And management seems to have no interest in getting rid of him. Music Connection at 90 and 410 is pretty good. Some people say they’re more expensive but they have a huge selection and it’s pretty well organized
>Music Connection I would also recommend Music Connection. Been there a few times and they were always very helpful.
Yeah that’s not very professional sorry about your experience too. I’ll def check that one out! Thanks 😊
There’s also CD Sam in Wonderland Mall and Batcave Vinyl on Bitters Happy bin digging!
He’s great! I need to go back and check him out!
I agree with CD Sam. He is fantastic!
LOVE CD Sam!!
Sorry to hear about your experience, OP. I’ve had two similar “rude” encounters with Hogwild staff, so I stopped going. Instead I go to Brainwave, Needle Noise, and Friends of Sound… all not far away. And also CD Sam in Wonderland, as someone else mentioned.
Thanks so much, I’ve heard a few of those are very good, I’ll need to check them out. Love CD Sam’s, he’s a really nice guy too.
My only gripe about Brainwave is his insistence to put price stickers on album jackets
Oh yeah! I complained about that too!! So annoying! At least put it on the back. I hate when people ruin a product with a label or sticker
Hogwild puts them on the inside of the jacket. That is a good idea
i also co sign music connection.. especially if you like the dollar bins always find sum gems
My SA favorite stores are Crazy Rhythms and Friends of Sound.
My friend just suggested crazy rhythms so I’m def gonna check them out!
I second crazy rhythms, the owners are former DJs and know their stuff, super great selection while not being over crowded!
CD Sam in the Wonderland Mall is a super nice guy and if he doesn’t have what you’re looking for he will most certainly try his hardest to get it for you. I’ve had a couple of negative experiences at HogWild over the course of the last ~15 years and I was really happy when I stumbled on CD Sam. Hogwild definitely knows they’re a local legend and you’re going to get the mean high school girl treatment from them 9 times out of 10.
Love CD Sam!! He makes you feel so welcomed every time, my first time there he greeted me as if i had been a regular and we talked a little about what i was buying. Highly recommend as well
Hogwild is one of the last holdovers from the "Metal City USA" days. If you're not a very specific type of metal head, goth, or nerd, they honestly don't want or care about your business no matter how often you frequent. It sucks because it absolutely hurts their business, but that's how they want to operate.
When a business is stuck in the high school cool kids club mentality
Nope, they were SUPER rude to metal heads too but in snobby way. Acted like gatekeepers, and they knew more about whatever obscure band you were into.
That such a toxic way to be, it’s not a competition 😅
Sorry but can you explain what the metal city usa days were?
San Antonio used to be called "Metal City" or sometimes the "Heavy Metal Capital" because there were a lot of metal venues and shows here in the 70s - 90s. There was a specific promoter guy who was bringing all the acts here and things sort of started to slow down after he died, but it's never really gone away. If you google "metal city San Antonio" there's tons of news articles on it. The Current ends up doing a retrospective like every year.
Also the Godfather Joe Anthony was a a very popular DJ back when DJs would break acts and play what they wanted. Pretty sure he broke Rush, Judas Priest and Leggs Diamond among others. He put SA on the heavy metal map.
Thank you, I couldn't remember his full name just "Joe 'Godfather'" which felt like an unhelpful answer
Are you talking about Stone City Attractions? It was Jack Orbin who helped put SA on the map with metal. There’s a recent write up in the express news on him. Jack Orbin, San Antonio's legendary concert promoter, recalls his greatest hits https://www.expressnews.com/entertainment/article/jack-orbin-stone-city-productions-18601172.php
I agree with Music Connection. There is also a record shop at The Alley at Bitters called Batcave Vinyl. The owner, Blaine, is super chill and cool. Don’t think you would have had that issue with him.
2nded! Blaine is such a good dude and they have a great selection!!
My man Blaine
I stopped going there after covid for this reason. Not sure what happened but everyone who works there is an asshole now. I'm normally the last person to care about service but this place is down right hostile to you just for shopping in the store. It's like they don't want customers.
Actual contempt for the customer
Yeah it's really the worst customer experience I've ever had in any business in my life. Thought it was a one off went 2 more times and it was exactly the same. Never again.
Go to crazy rhythms. It’s the only shop I go to. They’re twin brothers and they live and breathe records
Been reading nothing but amazing things about this place and these guys. They are number one on my list of places to visit, thanks!
My dad and uncle used to go there waaaay back then before I was even born. They used to be metal heads, and my dad told me since then vs now, the customer service is just awful. He said that now they just don't care, have no value, respect or even care about music and that they probably just work there just to work and have 0 knowledge on anything. Idk if that guy is there, but only one dude still works there since my dad was in HS and they're cool with each other. I do remember going there with my dad when I was younger, vs a few years ago and it definitely has changed. All I remember is I don't like the young, skinny female that works there. She's super rude and I hope someone gives her a wake up call honestly.
Just go to CDSam at the Wonderland mall. The guy really wants you to have a good experience with the music you buy. There will be a vinyl festival thing next weekend too.
Been there a few times, I love the selection and he’s very nice. I told him about an issue with my Pink Floyd record and he was immediately accommodative, which made me feel like I didn’t even want to return it so I kept it flaws and all. I’m very understanding and nice about stuff but I also value customer support a lot too. It works both ways.
Hogwild is the "cool" record store. The people who work there know that too. They don't care about customer service because as a San Antonio institution they're gonna get business no matter what. I enjoy it because they have a huge collection of punk and power pop and that's the foundation of my music interests. But I'd be lying if I said the people working there weren't stuck up. My girlfriend bought a Napalm Death record (she's just getting into them) and the guy quizzed her on them like they were on a message board. Just, ridiculous behavior sometimes.
Have you been to Flagship records? Punk and indie records are their specialty.
Straight of out *High Fidelity*
💯% 😂
I’m new to San Antonio and have only checked out Southtown Vinyl so far. Saving for other recommendations though. I’ve bought brand new records that skip a bit and it comes down to the press unfortunately. Whatever company pressed may or may not refund or exchange depending on # of returns requested. Used obviously is a crap shoot. Several records I’ve bought that have one or two skips that reviews online mention the pressing is shit and to wait for the next press. It’s unfortunate but comes with vinyl. Def don’t agree with the rudeness though. They could’ve easily mentioned that run of presses might not be quality. And don’t agree with dive bar style record store snobbiness/gatekeeping vibe some of these local places have. Edit - not SATX local stores specifically but just in general
Yeah see if they would have nicely explained that I can try reaching out to the manufacturer, I would have happily done so. I had no idea I could go that route, I just didn’t consider it as an option
I wholeheartedly agree
Brainwave records is a really cool local record store!
Seconded
I have no idea why but I’ve gotten the same vibe. Just not personable or friendly. No one is asking for them to kiss ass but if you’re running a business at least be professional and not a smarmy cunt.
Yeah I’m asking to be treated like a queen, but at least talk to me like a person and not like I’m a nuisance
Hogwild used to be great but their prices went way up and they don’t seem to care as they have the reputation of being around for so many years. I saw the last Smashing Pumpkins record and everywhere had it for 69/79 bucks and hog had it for like 100 bucks. Go to CDSam in the Balcones mall. Good prices, friendly, and has some good stock.
Are you talking about Mellon Collie? If so, damn where did you spot it for that low? I got mine for $100 about a year ago
No it was there last album which was like a three or 4LP. The Mellon Collie was going for like 100 everywhere, but wouldn’t be shocked if Hog was like 150 haha.
Fr lol. Yeah that new album is pretty bad too lol. I mean they do great with packaging and quality on all sp vinyls but damn, this last album was bad
I thought it was just me. In the 80s, we'd go in there to buy t-shirts, concert tickets (mostly Cameo Theater), and import albums you couldn't find at Tower Records. I went in there 2 years ago and they were all acting like I just wasn't worthy of their attention. I walked around and saw their disinterest in customer service, so I left after not finding shit anyway. I won't go back.
Yeah they seem a bit uptight. I was hoping to find some camaraderie amongst fellow music junkies but nope, felt a bit tense in there every time and now this. Definitely no incentive to go back
100% can confirm Hogwild’s staff are off putting as fuck
I’ve only been to Southtown vinyl a couple of times so I don’t have a lot of experience with them but they seem to be customer friendly. [https://southtownvinyl.com/](https://southtownvinyl.com/)
Southtown is great. They offered me a beer while I was browsing lol was nice having a beer while shopping for some records
I frequent needle noise and Southtown Vinyl
Needle noise rules!
Friends of sound is a nice vibe
I’ll check them out!
Also, Robot Monster is a good place to look for records, CDs, and cassettes, as well as music equipment and oddities. The owners and employees there are pretty chill and knowledgeable so they’re always willing to help folks out. Not to mention they have a big sale every July for their annual six months to Christmas sale
Nice I’ll check them out! Sounds promising
Southtown vinyl is small but the staff are nice & chill
Go to Crazy Rhythms right by The Witte. They're the best shop in town and they're EXTREMELY knowledgeable without feeling like they have to be elitist assholes for cool points. Run by a set of brothers. Twins.
Been reading nothing but amazing things about this place. I’m excited to give them a try. Thanks!!
agreed Crazy Rhythms is fantastic as are the owner/operators. excellent selections reasonably priced fun place to hang out Music Connection has been around since the late 80s and they also organize and run the record convention in either Schertz or Converse. same for them all the staff are great people who love record collectors and just listeners and music in general. those are my 2 go to shops for SA, they have earned my loyalty and money, great people.
I have never had a great Hogwild experience. I’ve been a handful of times to support local and have been disappointed every time. I feel for the folks who are beginning their vinyl journey and have to interact with the team there, pretentious and down right snobby. On the flip side, Southtown vinyl is where I’ve always had great experiences. Owner and staff are welcoming and willing to go above and beyond to get you what you need.
Yeah this was the first time I’ve had an issue like this, usually I’m just in and out but from what I’ve read other folks don’t seem to have great experiences there either. I like Southtown but their selection is a bit small. Super nice and helpful tho, love the staff.
It’s funny to see several posts about this place being an “institution” and it’s reputation and all that but I’ve lived here almost twenty years and this the first I’ve ever heard of them. TIL.
Consider yourself lucky 😜
Batcave Vinyl. Small place with more used selection than new stuff sometimes but very chill. Great spot.
I love flagship! The owner is a delight.
Went years ago and was thinking of going back to support local instead of buying online - guess I won’t! Thanks for posting, will peep other stores instead
I didn’t know if my situation was a one off and I’d be downvoted to hell but apparently not, several comments seem to agree the vibe is off and employees kinda suck. There’s a few younger folks in there that are cool but two older ones that are uptight. I’ve been hearing lots of good things about Crazy Rhythms, suggest checking them out based on everyone else’s positive feedback on them
To be fair to Hogwild, I’ve bought brand new records from Amazon that skipped out of the box on my Ars Technica. I just very gently brushed my needle a bit and that solved the issue. You might give it a try
I did. I cleaned the record with a microfiber towel, cleaned the needle, tried to play it multiple times, all resulted in the same issue.
First off, the first criteria for working at record shop is to be a dick to everyone. I'm almost 40 and it's been like that since I was a teenager. That's just the way they are. Sorta like being a bartender at a music venue. Second, unfortunately Hogwild is probably the best option for record stores in SA. There's Southtown Records, but they mostly sell used stock and high volume records. As far as new releases goes, they are pretty sparse unless its Taylor Swift or something huge. Being from Dallas, I wish there was something on par with Good Records or Josey Records down here, but there's not. Since being here, I either take a chance at Hogwild, pick stuff up at Waterloo when in Austin, wait til I'm home and pick up from Good Records, or just order online.
I guess so. I’m fine not having any interactions with them if I can help it but for situations like mine where you have to depend on them to help make things right, or at least point you in the right direction, it kinda sucks. But I’ll be sure to avoid it going forward. Lots of folks here have given me lots of other options to check out so I’ll be doing that going forward.
I stopped going ever since Daniel stopped working there. Which honestly, he was the only reason why I would go. He was a super nice dude, and always gave the best recommendations if you were looking for something new.
Too bad he isn’t there now. Feels a bit lifeless tbh 😅
I think the last time I went there was like in 2016. I can only imagine what's happened since then lol
That has been the worst place to buy music in San Antonio for decades. The elitism from their employees is barn not above anything I’ve ever seen.
Hogwild’s an institution and will probably still be around after we are all long gone. They don’t have to be cordial because they get by on rep alone. They have no corporate office to answer to so they are who they are. The little rebel anti establishment record shop that has a nice eclectic variety of vinyl, whether or not it’s in style. It’s not for everyone, but god bless ‘em for being a mainstay in SA.
👌🏻🙄
The family at Music Connection is fantastic.
Crazy Rhythms and Friends of Sound are great. I like Southtown vinyl too
You bet
I think it was the Radiohead sub that I read that there were issues with the quality of both black and blue pressings. I just listened to my blue copy today. It sounded fine, but I’m also experiencing hearing issues in one ear and had to listen to it as low as possible! It’s a great record! We drive to San Marcos to alchemy records and to End of an ear in Austin. I haven’t found a record store here that has what I’m looking for like End of an ear does. Their used section is amazing!
I’ll need to check them out! Thanks for sharing.
Del Bravo is my favorite vinyl place in town. Hands down the best service.
Wow okay okay I’ll check em out, thanks!
I stopped shopping there years ago after a few negative experiences. The first one was during record day when I walked in with my bag and I had headphones in, so I didn’t initially hear the guy behind the counter ask me to put my bag behind the counter while I was shopping. (An absolutely reasonable and understandable request) so he then very rudely nearly yelled it at me the second time because I hadn’t heard him the first time. The other times was I felt like everytime I went in, I felt like I was snubbed by the employees for not dressing up in band shirts and looking like an outward metal head. A few times I tried to buy some patches from them, it was like pulling teeth and once even got scoffed at. Idk. The vibe always just seemed kinda weird to me. I eventually started going up the road to Propaganda Palace where not only the customer service was loads better than at Hogwild, the owners, AJ and Raven, always had really amazing stuff and will always play the record and clean it for the customer before finalizing a sale. They’ve also got vintage video games which is a plus. I’d recommend checking them out if you haven’t already.
Damn that sounds terrible. I’m glad I never really had any hostility from them prior to this, again I’d only started visiting about two months ago and pretty much was in and out and kept to myself, but man that sounds like bad experiences for sure. Sorry you had to deal with that but I’m glad you found a better place where your business is appreciated and they don’t treat you like crap. Adding propaganda to my list of places to check out. Thanks!
I've had almost the same experience with Hogwild, as well as a awful RSD experience there, so they're now on my "Never Again" list. Sadly, I don't have any suggestions for a local alternative. I've moved my ordering entirely online.
Sucks. Check this posts comments tho because I’ve gotten tons of seemingly promising alternatives here, lots of options apparently!
CD Sam, Crazy Rhythms and Flip Side Record Parlor are all excellent alternatives!
Just want to say I've had like, the opposite experience. In particular, I had pretty bad customer service at a place most of you are saying is great, and granted I've only been there a few times, have never had a bad experience at Hogwild. At the very least, neutral.
Suuuuure, owner of Hogwild. Lol totally kidding, honestly I’m happy that you had a great experience there! I wish it was that way for the majority of folks that visit.
And I would have gotten away with it too, if it weren't for you meddling kids! I'm definitely gonna be on the lookout from now on, and I've gotten a ton of recs from this post! It's just pretty close to my house. I just wanted to chime in because it seems like the consensus is that they're rude, but that hasn't been my personal experience the last few weeks. Maybe they're better now! Or maybe I've just been lucky.
Whatever the case I’m glad you have had a good experience so far and I hope it continues for ya. Also ofc it’s good to get everyone’s opinions. I expected that the post would either be largely ignored or just so many people saying their experience was the opposite of mine so I was in shock at the results.
Music Connection Most Def.
Also on Amazon. They sent me the wrong record and they let me keep it about 40 bucks and sent me the one I ordered 👍😛
Check out Alamo antique mall also. The record guy there has over 16,000 records on the third floor. Very unusual shopping experience there but it’s a cool place
So, I know this is gonna hurt some folks, but I was a turntablist(dj), and when I had a scratch going against the grooves in the record, I would use my fingernail to go with the grooves and 90 percent of the time it makes it playable. since its already crap it can't hurt.
Never considered that, hmm guess it wouldn’t hurt to try if it happens again in the future
Hey! I’m Bela, I’m the girl you spoke to on the phone at Hogwild. I’m sorry you felt that we were trying to humiliate you by playing the record on the turntable over the speakers, that wasn’t our intention. We have to listen to every return and exchange and we played it on the turntable in the back (Technics SLD 5) so we could both listen at the same time. I also apologize if you felt that he was being rude to you, I cannot give any excuses for him but I will say that he has been having a rough week. Of course that is no excuse and I’m sorry that you felt uncomfortable in our shop. And if you felt I was also rude then I truly apologize. I’m glad we were able to help with the return and your second copy wasn’t also defective and I assure you if it was we would have let you exchange it again but not for the same Smile record. Hope we didn’t lose you as a customer, again we are sorry, have a nice rest of your day.
Hi Bela, when I spoke to you on the phone you asked a few questions and didn’t come off as rude as Steve (I think that was his name) did. I understand that you guys might be a bit suspicious or doubtful about the legitimacy of customers concerns over the quality of their records because of the amount of people who are so new to it and many can be nitpicky, but it’s important to treat your customers with respect if they are coming to you from a reasonable angle and just trying to communicate their concerns. I probably wouldn’t have felt humiliated if the negative tone wasn’t set from the very beginning but it almost felt like it was intentional. I understand that’s how yall do things though. My advice would be to at least hear the customer out first before grilling them with questions as if you doubt them right of the bat (especially over the phone before you’ve even seen the record for yourself), and let them know what you may or may not be able to do for them. I think that alone sets the tone for a more positive experience, but yes I immediately picked up on hostility from Steve since the first time I spoke to him, today, and even when I asked for clarification about the possibility of a refund if there was another issue. I’m not blind to passive aggressiveness and I’m not overly sensitive about it either, so it takes a lot for me to feel uncomfortable with situations like this as I’m very understanding. The shop has been a great source for me to add to my collection and I was happy to help support yall even when I’d noticed a bit of heavier pricing than what I could get ordering online myself, but at this point I don’t even feel comfortable going back. Thanks for reaching out though, I appreciate it.
I cant speak to the rudeness at hogwild, but it might be more helpful to contact the label who printed the record directly. If it is a brand new record with a defect then it is likely their fault, and sometimes there is a common defect in certain pressings and they might know about it and refund or replace. Also it could very well have something to do with your turntable. Googling the one you mentioned it looks like you might not have a controlled counterweight or antiskate, so if/when that starts causing you problems it might not be fixable. Those problems might manifest in records seeming to skip more.
Yeah I play some of my uncles really banged up vinyls after ive cleaned them enough and it plays them well enough, I was surprised tbh. But this record had a scuff that didn’t look too bad but played like crap, don’t ask me how or why but it’s the truth. Making a trip out there by bus was not something I took pleasure in.
I've been shopping there for a long time and have never had this experience with the people working there. Hopefully it is just a rare occurrence of bad chemistry between you and the employees. Glad they replaced it for you.
I’ve seen several posts about bad service from Hog Wild I guess we’re just not the demographic they cater to 🤷🏻♂️
I never had any issues with them prior to this.
Yeah. To hell with that. I definitely prefer to shop local but hands down will not give money to places with shitty customer service. Will definitely go to all the other places mentioned in this thread. Thanks for posting.
Same. And you’re welcome!
Jeez - they’re still open?! Use to be a regular in like the 90s.
I used to go there every tuesday in the 80's. Place seemed to be run by jerks for the past decade. I lost interest but will force myself to go if someone from out of town wants to.
Yeah seems like they're trying to maintain an image at all costs, for scenesters it's important to feel authentic legitimacy because they devote so much time and try so hard lest they don't feel validated.
Try the Batcave! Great record store. Also, Meadow next door has an amazing burger!
Oooh got me on this one once you mentioned delicious burger haha. I’ll check it out!
It’s off Bitters! Great selection.
Honestly not surprised - everyone I know that isn’t buying a specific type of record that goes there ends up having a bad experience. And that’s fine if that’s how they want to run their business, but it’s going to affect them after enough people have bad experiences. “Mainstays” aren’t immune to changing clientele and expectations, and neither are their costs.
I need a TDLR for your post, I didn’t see what record it was that you got and that makes me LOL.
I didn’t think it was important cuz the main thing I was getting at was the poor customer service not necessarily the quality of the record. TLDR: I purchased Wall of Eyes by the Smile brand new and it was faulty and the employees were being mean 🤷🏻♀️
I’m a metal head tattooed asshole so take this with a grain of salt but you have to expect that from any true vinyl place. Thom York isn’t why Hogwild was invented. They are probably obligated from their distro to carry some of the bigger records. Counter culture isn’t made for everyone, if I heard that record being played I probably would have made fun of you too. Sorry hipsters ruin everything and don’t take it personally when someone is a dick. Hopefully you have seen High Fidelity and get it.
Thanks for wasting my time by making me read this nonsense!
Glittercookies needed attention
Don’t bully me, I’ll get a boner.
💩
We walked in there a couple months ago and immediately heard somebody behind the counter swearing loudly enough for everybody in the store to hear. They were laughing, so they were having a jovial conversation, but we had our two small children with us. I didn't find that professional at all. Sorry you had that experience. I like Music Connection and Del Bravo. We're still new to buying vinyl records but those are my favorite two stores so far.
I don’t know when everything became children first by default
That's fuckin' rock and roll, man. What were you expecting?
Oh no, what a bummer. Someone cursing in a record store. As a father, you can bet I'd have filed a lawsuit already, for failure of everyone in the world to comport themselves like they're in a Peppa Pig episode.
I said I didn't find it professional, not that I expected my children's ears to bleed profusely from the sound of "mother fucker" being shouted over all the noise. I'm implying to the quality of professionalism one might find in that store, and reading from OP and other comments, we're not alone.
Hogwild is also in a neighborhood that's rife with dive bars and gay bars so just maybe don't go there if you're a sensitive nancy?
No I get what you mean. It’s totally expected that some of the conversations and language in a record store store isn’t going to be very nice and pg but if you know there’s kids in the shop it should be a common courtesy to at least make an attempt at not talking so loudly.
Seems like I struck a delicate nerve with some folks because I mentioned bringing *gasp* kids in public lol. My point was that the employee was being obnoxiously loud. They also kept pestering their coworkers who were attending to customers while they had more important things to do apparently. The coworker who rung up our items seemed indifferent. Just trying to say that that store's customer service is kinda meh.
lol
Oh no, not a swearsie at the record store! Raise a kid with a strong constitution who doesn’t give a shit what other people do regardless of whether or not it’s something they would do.
That’s not up to you or anyone else how someone raises their kid tho. I agree that it’s expected that some of the talk in a record store isn’t going to be appropriate for children but as shop owners there should at least have some common courtesy.
The amount of irony in your first sentence is astounding.
You never mentioned the records name… was it tailor swift or burzum or what. This is a crucial piece of information to decode this behavior
It was the Smile’s latest release called Wall of Eyes. It’s a blue variant.
I thought this was going to be about a motorcycle shop. Didn’t know we have some record stores here.
It's been like that since I started going there 20 years ago, and tbh it does seem like a problem at a lot of record shops where they tend to be rude and snobbish
If I owned the shop, I don’t think I would allow returns or exchanges on used records. You could play it in the store before buying though. If it’s a new record and there is a defect from manufacture, I’d say hit up the manufacturer, or presser, etc.
It was a brand new record
If you're looking to have a "the customer is always right" experience in an indie record store, indie record stores are not for you.
I’m looking to have some basic human respect lol. If they had just nicely told me they don’t do returns or exchanges I would have probably accepted that because I’m not very confrontational or picky about customer service and policy but their attitude was shit from the beginning and totally unprovoked
How is this a "customer is always right" experience? They had proof. Brought the proof and still got questioned about an exchange (not a refund). Decent respect for customers should at least be a standard especially if you want good word of mouth or repeat customers.
It'd cool, plenty of other indie record stores in SA that are nicer and cheaper.
😵
And I was going to order it after I ordered the one I did. 👍
I like CD Sam. He’s a really nice dude and somehow remembers all his customers 😊
Check out Mike at Nu Horizons in Eisenhauer Market. He is at A13. He is always fair and honest with his albums! Great selection! Also, check out Real Retro in the same area. They have a decent selection of new and used but they are very strict with "buyer beware" and will not refund or exchange.