The trio turning Jozi ‘Gnarly’... one record at a time

In a world of digital playlists, Gnarly Vinyls is proving that the ceremony of the needle and the thrill of the dig are far from dead. I sat down with the Kempton Park team behind the city’s roaming record store to talk soul, hyper-pop sparks, and why the future of Jozi’s music scene is tactile.

Vinyl revival

In the heart of the local market scene, there is a specific sensory experience that Spotify can't replicate: the texture of a sleeve, the scent of history in the air, and the slight crackle as a record is eased free.

This is the world of Gnarly Vinyl Records Shop, a business that began just six months ago in October. Run by a trio with distinct personalities - a soulful curator, a detail-driven organiser, and an adventurous crate-digger, they are united by a deep passion for the vinyl revival.

The K-pop spark

You’d think the name "Gnarly Vinyls" was inspired by the surf, but it wasn’t; it was actually sparked by the infectious vibe of a track from a girl group known for their experimental, hyper-pop style. This K-pop influence reflects the team's appreciation for vibrant, unapologetically unique music.

"That shared experience perfectly sums up our ethos," explains co-founder Quintin Beling. "Embracing a wide range of sounds and injecting fresh, dynamic energy into the vinyl scene”, he continues.

The roaming revolution

While they maintain an online store, the team believes people want to feel the weight of the sleeve and chat with fellow enthusiasts rather than waiting days for a courier. A notion I can get behind, when you consider that the world is more connected and lonely than ever.

Originally "East Randers" from the Kempton Park area, the trio began their journey in Benoni, where the laid-back vibe helped them get off to a successful start. Since then, they have expanded to the whirlwind activity of Irene and have their sights set on Edenvale next.

"Each community has its own distinct feel," Quintin notes. "Benoni offers a friendly vibe, while Irene’s energy is vibrant and fast-paced".

Breaking the "Boys' Club"

Vinyl is often seen as a male-dominated hobby, but the Gnarly team, composed of two women and one man, is proving that the love of music isn't decided by gender. Their dynamic allows for a curation style that makes everyone feel welcome, regardless of background.

• Bez-Marie is the vibrant partner who draws people in with infectious enthusiasm and warmth.
• Quintin is the music aficionado with an encyclopaedic knowledge, ready to help track down elusive pressings.
• Sharon is the "quiet force" behind the scenes, ensuring the crates are always well-supplied with stock for collectors to discover.

The sound of Joburg

For those hunting through their crates, the "Holy Grail" items you should currently be hunting for include a Rolling Stones SA Press 7" (Used) and Tori Amos’s In Time Of Dragons (New). As for the album that perfectly captures Johannesburg's energy right now? The team points to Ghost's Skeleta.

The future is organic

Despite their rapid growth, don't expect a permanent Gnarly HQ just yet. The team is focused on keeping the scene accessible by being out and about, even sending customers to other brick-and-mortar shops to support the wider community.

"For now, our focus is on being present where the energy is and growing our base organically," Quintin says. From young kids discovering Taylor Swift to teenagers discovering Lana Del Rey, Gnarly Vinyls ensures the physical connection to music remains immediate and tangible for all ages.

For those looking to catch the Gnarly Vinyls team in action, they are currently popping up at markets in Benoni and Irene Village, with plans to expand to Edenvale soon. Keep an eye on their social media to find out where they will be next. 

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