Record shops can have a reputation for being a little bit snooty, so if you’re looking for a more layback experience, it doesn’t get more casual than Boise’s Jam Session Records. Just a few minutes away from the Record Exchange’s gargantuan selection, Jam Session offers a far more calming experience. Pop in after lunch to look around and you’ll feel like you’re browsing records in your buddy’s garage without a care in the world.
What to Expect
This small used record store is only open four days a week, making it a true local stop. If The Record Exchange is Home Depot, then this is your friend who has a bunch of tools you can borrow. The shop, located between a car dealership and a billiards store, is a shining example of what makes middle America and its independent businesses so special.
The store’s owner is usually the sole employee and you’ll likely find him spinning records or pricing out massive bins of used records while you shop around. If you’re the extroverted type, he’s a great person to talk with about music and seek recommendations from. I am not one of these people but I saw a few talking to him and they seemed to be enjoying themselves.
Selection at Jam Session Records
There were a handful of new records here on the day I went but this is primarily a used record store. The selection here isn’t massive but it’s plenty big enough to keep occupied for an hour or two if you are digging as thoroughly as you should at a place like this. Don’t get me wrong there are plenty of Smothers Brothers and Elvis records priced in the $2-10 dollar range to make your selection look bigger on Instagram. BUT, there is plenty of solid stuff here too. I came away with a copy of Patti Smith’s Easter at a great price and a Carpenters record that felt like a collection essential. If I hadn’t spent all my money on potatoes I would have come away with quite a few more. If you are interested in the expensive side of things, the owner frequently posts his rare and unique finds on the Jam Session Instagram page linked at the bottom of this article.
Genre-wise, it’s a pretty typical split. I didn’t find a particular section that was beefier than average. Rock, jazz, and all the usual suspects are available here. But don’t expect a massive metal section or anything like that.
If you are the type of person who goes into a record store to shop for things other than records this shop has a few things for you. There’s a smattering of key chains as well as a decent selection of cassette tapes available for weirdos who collect physical copies of outdated media formats.
Pricing at Jam Session Records
This is a used record shop that falls into the low price range. Although there are a few rare records priced $100 and up, the records here tend to fall under $20 a pop. This makes it a great place to discover new music, and stock up on old favorites and classics that everyone needs in their selection. (So grandma can pick something out to play during Christmas)
My Take on Jam Session Records
Jam Session is a neighborhood shop, which have frequently been some of my favorite kinds of record stores. If I lived nearby this is the type of place I would check out once or twice a week. There is always going to be something decent that is priced low enough that you can buy it on a whim. The vibes are as relaxed as you can get, the owner’s not a creep. There is little more you can ask for in a little ol’ record store.
Records Purchased
Easter – Patti Smith
Close to You – The Carpenters
Address: 2516 W Main St, Boise, ID 83702
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