Rock Stop #5: Newbury Comics

A favorite amongst music enthusiasts is the record store Newbury Comics! Newbury Comics got its start as a comic book shop in Boston, right on Newbury Street. Gradually, the comics were relegated to a small area of the shop while the music section took over. Say it with me rock fans, “Whew!” The original location is still there and definitely worth a pit stop on your way through Boston. Aside from the original, there are 29 store locations, all located in New England, though most are in Massachusetts.

(Photo courtesy of celebrateboston.com)

Massachusetts also boasts the largest store in the chain on Route 1 in Norwood. This location is much more spacious and filled to the brim with, well, what seems like everything. Occasionally, bands perform acoustic sets and host meet-n-greets here (and at the Newbury Street location too). Steel Panther and Andrew W.K. are just two rock artists to have swung through!

You might be asking yourself, “What’s the big deal? A music store is a music store is a music store.” But…you’re wrong! :) Yes, Newbury Comics has a wide variety of various genres of new and used CDs like any other store but the company is big on supporting independent and local musicians, so you’re bound to find something new and intriguing! And they keep a nice supply of vinyl in for you turn-table devotees. Aside from the tunes themselves, you can score band merchandise in the form of clothing and posters and pick from the numerous music-related magazines, books, and DVDs.

Also, Newbury Comics is one-stop shopping for many quirky goods, from slogan shirts to unusual figurines to hilarious magnets, body jewelry and accessories, all kinds of books, and, yes, comics. If music isn’t your thing, then perhaps you’ll also want to peruse their large selection of movie and television show DVDs. Sports fan? They’ve got ya covered with an assortment of sports paraphernalia. There’s surely something for everyone here and, if not, at least you’ll have a laugh or two at some of the more out-there items. Hamburger phone, anyone?

(Steel Panther in-store appearance photos courtesy of our own You Ain't Blonde, via Mega Metal Photos !)

For a complete list of store locations, please visit the Newbury Comics website.

The original Newbury Comics is located at 332 Newbury Street, Boston, MA.

The largest Newbury Comics is located at 859 Boston/Providence Highway (Route 1), Norwood, MA.