This week we’re taking a peek at Exile On Main Street, located in the One Main building in downtown Champaign (1 Main St.), right next to Merry Anne’s Diner. It’s timely to talk about the shop this week, since it is playing host to one of the Pygmalion shows this weekend (see CU Sound Revue). While being a supplier of music in its various forms (and having a name that has origins in the music world), this place separates itself from other music slingers in the area by also catering to the video game market, and even offering a DVD/video game rental service.
Apart from a ridiculous array of used CDs (look in the back of the store for the half-off used CDs), there is a large assortment of used vinyl (everything from classic rock and soul to DJ 12” records), used DVDs (including lots of TV-on-DVD sets), and used games for almost every platform, including the Atari and Game Boy. New releases of CDs, DVDs, LPs, and video games are also stocked (sometimes even a little early if you’re nice). Prices are generally competitive with those at the chain stores, but when you consider the special ordering that can be done from Exile, the service and stock is certainly better. If you’re trying to track something down, they can probably find it. There is also a solid magazine section which also includes some local zines.
The real gem here (that seems to be the most under-utilized) might be the rental service, which offers similar rates to other rental places on DVDs and video games, with an interesting selection. The store is also one of the only spots in “downtown” downtown that sells 20 oz. sodas, along with candy, which often brings in hungry or thirsty Volition employees in need of a boost. With no real “store” or even convenience shop right downtown (some people can’t be bothered to huff it to Super Pantry), maybe owner Jeff Brandt should start stocking more snacks. Well, I take that back — there’s no room, what with all the records and video games. Stop in and see for yourself.
This weekend, during Pygmalion, the shop will run a sale on all used CDs/DVDs/LPs and video games: buy three, get the fourth for free. Take advantage of this sale through the festival’s run, including during the Saturday afternoon free in-store featuring Sangamon, the Living Blue, Snowsera, Santa, and Lucky Mulholland (starting at 2 p.m.).
Related Posts
