Built by music hounds.
Armageddon was created to be the kind of shop we’d want to spend all day in — independent, a little obsessive, and deeply involved in the local scene.
Our own touch.
Our goal is simple: be the best record shop possible within our means. Vinyl is the focus — LPs, 10”s and 7”s — with CDs, cassettes, videos, magazines, shirts and a few books alongside.
We stock as much local music as we can, consign most local releases, and sometimes buy local releases on the spot. Unlike most stores, we’re actively part of the art, music and community here in Providence — to the greatest extent our lives allow.
How we got here
Dropdead forms
Ben Barnett and friends start the Providence hardcore band; the Armageddon Label follows in 1998 to release their records.
The last shop closes
Fast Forward — where Ben worked between tours — shuts its doors. Independent record stores are closing everywhere.
The idea
In spring, Ben and Anne decide Providence needs a truly independent store for underground music, focused on vinyl.
436 Broadway
The space is leased in September. It’s cleaned, painted, and most fixtures are built by hand.
Doors open
A pre-opening party on January 12, then open to the public January 13.
Chris joins
Chris Andries becomes a partner in July. The Armageddon Shop imprint follows.
Harvard Square
After five years of scouting, a second shop opens in the old Twisted Village space at 12B Eliot St, Cambridge.
Still digging
Two shops, two labels, worldwide mail order — and the same mission: be the best record shop possible, our way.
The owners
Armageddon is owned and run by two musicians, with the occasional volunteer. (We’re not hiring at the moment.)
Ben Barnett
Co-founder. Dropdead member and founder of Armageddon Label. Started the shop after Fast Forward closed in 1998.
Chris Andries
Partner since 2005. Musician, collector and co-runner of the Armageddon Shop imprint.
Got records collecting dust?
We pay cash or store credit — same rate either way — for used vinyl in good shape in almost any style, plus CDs, tapes, tees, zines and other music stuff.