Turning Tables Q&A – Dave Reitman, Licorice Pie Records VIC

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 Dave Reitman from Collingwood’s Licorice Pie.

What store can we find you at and how long have you been there?
Licorice Pie Records, nearly 20 years now, 18 years in Prahran, and the past 2 years at Collingwood Yards.

How has the store and its customers changed over time?
Still have customers from the first week of opening. Some have gone by the “digital” wayside and others have shuffled off this mortal coil, but at the same time have picked up a younger crew too. A lot more female customers now, record collecting was pretty blokey 20 years ago.

What’s your general vibe to kick off the morning music when doors open?
Usually whatever was left on the turntable from the previous staff member, especially if it’s something I’m not too familiar with.

Ever had any notable cameo walk-ins in store?
Africa Bambaatta, Henry Rollins, J. Mascis, Pete Rock, Madlib, Billy Corgan, Kim Deal, Childish Gambino, Ghostface Killer, DJ Shadow, Thurston Moore…

Do you remember the first record that started your own collection? Was it bought, gifted or handed down?
AC/DC – Back in Black (a gift)

What about the first record you purchased for someone else? Where’d you buy it?
Possibly The Models: alphabrabocharliedeltaechofoxtrotgolf. Might have been from Au-Go-Go. That was a long time ago, can’t rightly remember.

Favourite debut record of all time?
Rose Tattoo – Self Titled

Tell us about the most valuable (monetary or sentimental) record in your collection. Why is it so important to you? 
How do you pick a favourite child?

Favourite Australian release of all time?
Rose Tattoo – Self Titled

What’s your number one pick of the 2022 Official RSD releases?
Lou Reed: I’m So Free, the 1971 RCA Demos looks like it would be a good listen.

What record has been on repeat for you lately?
Tom Ze: Estudando O Samba

Tell us about your favourite artist, and what record of theirs you’d recommend to introduce to someone who’s never heard of them.
Sun Ra… Lanquidity is a good place to jump into his catalogue, one of his more accessible titles and freaking amazing.

Favourite in-store performance of all time?
LOU

Best thing about working at a record store?
The constant learning and discovery… There is always something surprising around the corner. 

It’s closing time in the store, what’s spinning?
Auld Lang Syne

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

Store Location
Licorice Pie Records
35 Johnston St,
(Alternate Entry via. Perry St)
Collingwood
Postal: 3/30 Perry St,
Collingwood VIC 3066

Ph (03) 9510 4600

Opening Hours:
Wed-Fri: 11.30am-5pm
Sat: 10.30am-5pm