Boomkat

Boomkat is a London-based independent record store chain specializing in obscure and avant-garde music. Established in the mid-1990s, Boomkat's mission has always been to provide a home for experimental musicians, obscure underground genres, and independent labels, both with their physical locations and as a record label. Over the years, Boomkat has earned a reputation for uncovering new and exciting sounds and promoting left-field acts that push the boundaries of music.

Concept and history

Boomkat was founded in the late 1990s by a group of music enthusiasts who felt that mainstream record stores and labels were not providing enough space for the world's more off-beat genres and artists. They wanted to create a space where those who delve deeper into music's exploratory realms could come together to discover new sounds and explore the fringes of musical expression. With its first store opening in London, Boomkat quickly became a haven for experimental music fans and independent artists alike.

Selection and curation

Unlike traditional record stores, Boomkat's offerings are carefully selected and curated by a team of knowledgeable music aficionados. Their collection spans a wide variety of obscure and experimental music genres from around the world, with a focus on vinyl, cassettes, digital releases, and other niche formats. By hand-picking each album and single that graces their shelves, Boomkat has built a reputation for having one of the best and most diverse collections of experimental music found anywhere.

Store locations and operations

Currently, Boomkat has three physical locations in London, each with its own unique atmosphere and aesthetic. The main store in Shoreditch is host to frequent in-store events and performances, providing an intimate setting for emerging artists and established acts alike to showcase their work. The Dalston and Peckham branches also hold a strong focus on providing a welcoming environment for music exploration.

Boomkat's team members are renowned for their extensive knowledge of music and their enthusiasm for sharing this passion with customers. New releases and in-stock records across all genres are highlighted on a weekly basis, curated by the staff. This collaborative, knowledgable approach to music retail sets Boomkat apart from many other record shops.

Record label activities

Beyond being a retailer, Boomkat also acts as a record label, releasing a wide range of records from talented independent artists. Since its inception, the label has put out hundreds of albums and singles across its various imprints. Each release on the Boomkat imprint reflects the same eclectic and adventurous spirit of the store itself.

The label prides itself on its dedication to quality and artistic freedom, giving artists the opportunity to express themselves freely without any creative limitations or genre restrictions. Boomkat's label releases are consistently met with critical acclaim and have helped launch the careers of many up-and-coming artists.

Cultural impact and legacy

Boomkat has had a significant impact on the global music scene, helping to cultivate and support a wide range of innovative, unique, and often underappreciated artists. It has become a gathering place and creative incubator for the city's experimental music and avant-garde scenes, while also attracting an international crowd of music enthusiasts.

The chain's enduring presence as a specialist music retailer has helped sustain a thriving independent music scene in London and beyond. Its focus on obscure, experimental, and left-field sounds has encouraged countless musicians to push the limits of their craft, continually challenging the conventions of the music world. As such, Boomkat remains one of the world's most important institutions for showcasing and supporting the ever-evolving world of independent and boundary-pushing music.