Fat Cat Records is now on Stone Way

Fat Cat Records, formerly near the corner of Meridian and 45th, has moved to a new location at 4206 Stone Way N. The store which sells new and used records, CDs and cassette tapes was opened in 2018 by Frank Laufer and his father James. Its opening in 2018 was covered by Wallywood in a blog post.

The new location has features that the old one lacked. Parking was an issue at the Meridian location and the old space was too small to fit Fat Cat’s growth plans. It did have a very visible and iconic sign, though.

The Stone Way location has parking and the space to grow. The store will be expanding into its new space over the next few months. Though a lot less visible from the road, judging by a brief visit on a Friday afternoon, their customers have found the new location. 

The family has been in the record business since the 1980’s. James worked in record stores in the 1980’s and owned a record store in the 90’s. Frank says he grew up in record stores. 

What’s Old is New

There is a thriving market for used and new LPs, 45s, CD’s and cassettes. According to Frank, one of the drivers is Gen Z. These younger customers grew up on digital music and have discovered vinyl as a cool “new” thing. CD’s and cassettes are popular because the older cars younger folks buy often have those systems installed. 

If you grew up with LPs and have kept them around, Fat Cat and other stores will gladly buy them from you. And if you have a first pressing of Nirvana’s Bleach album with the poster, that can go for up to $4,000! Original albums from artists like The Beatles go for a premium. But you can also purchase new pressings of most of your favorite LPs. 

The demand for vinyl, CDs and cassettes supports several businesses in our area. Along with Fat Cat, Wallingford also hosts Golden Oldies on 45th and there’s Jive Time and Daybreak in Fremont and Sonic Boom in Ballard. 

To learn more about getting into playing records, including buying a turntable and other gear, stop by and talk with Frank. This is a very friendly neighborhood business.