Turning Tables Q&A – Blake Budak, Landspeed Records ACT

Turning Tables
Shining a light on the tastemakers behind the desk

In the lead up to RSD 2022 we’ll be featuring some of the legends behind the scenes at participating stores in a short interview segment we’re calling Turning Tables—shining a light on the faces, names, minds and tastemakers behind the desk who greet our crate-digging friends with invaluable knowledge and an undying love for all things music.

Today we’re featuring Blake Budak from Canberra’s Landspeed Records.

What store can we find you at and how long have you been there?
Landspeed Records and I’ve been there since we opened in 1994.

How has the store and its customers changed over time?
We’re a lot bigger and have a much broader range of music then when we opened. Back then we predominantly had CDs and some vinyl and now it’s pretty much the other way around. Also the internet was very much in its infancy and things have changed in a multitude of ways since then. 

What’s your general vibe to kick off the morning music when doors open? 
We usually like to start the day with something pretty chilled. ‘Moon Safari’ by Air is a classic to start the day with.

Ever had any notable cameo walk-ins in store?
We’ve had some pretty interesting customers over the year’s but some memorable ones include Henry Rollins, J Mascis (Dinosaur Jr), Dylan Moran, Stan Grant, Murray Cook from the Wiggles, Jimmy Barnes and Tim Rogers.

Do you remember the first record that started your own collection? Was it bought, gifted or handed down?
The first record I ever had bought for me was ‘Cool For Cats’ by U.K. Squeeze.

Favourite debut record of all time? 
There are so many incredible debut albums it’s hard to narrow it down but an all time favourite of mine is The Stone Roses debut from 1989.

Favourite Australian release of all time?
There are so many it’s hard to choose but the Sunnyboys self-titled debut is an album I’ve always loved.

What’s your number one pick of the 2022 Official RSD releases?
There’s a few I’m looking forward to adding to my collection including Scott Walker’s ‘Boy Child: The Best Of 1967-1970’ and the 30th anniversary reissue of Billy Bragg’s classic debut album.

What record has been on repeat for you lately?
Black Country, New Road’s new album ‘Ants From Up Here’ has probably been the stand out for 2022 so far.

Best thing about working at a record store?
Getting exposed to so many different types of music and also getting to interact with customers and learning from them as well.

Stay up to date with Rockaway Records, and all their RSD happenings via their website, facebook and instagram.

Store Location
Landspeed Records
30 Garema Place
Canberra City ACT

Ph (02) 6248 9220

Opening Hours:
Open Mon-Thu 10-5 Fri 10-6 Sat 10-5 Sun 11-3