Village Green Records
Hours: 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday-Friday, 1 p.m.-8 p.m. Saturday-Sunday
Address: 519 N. Martin St.
This column reflects the views of its author, and does not necessarily reflect the views of WCRD or the Daily News.
A new world opens before your eyes as you are engulfed in the surroundings. Before you have time to soak in everything, a friendly face asks if you need assistance.
Travis Harvey is the owner of Muncie’s Village Green Records, a record store located just off campus at 519 N. Martin St. In 2006, Harvey and a friend opened VGR inside their house.
“We wanted to fill that cultural hole in town,” Harvey said. “We wanted to add character to Muncie.”
Harvey’s friend left after a few years, leaving him as the sole owner. Once he gained control of VGR, he remodeled it.
After managing the business for more than eight years, Harvey has learned a great deal of different genres and artists. Some of his friends even refer to him as “a living library of music.”
Unlike the chain stores Meijer, Walmart or FYE, VGR offers a detailed and personal touch to its merchandise.
“I put CDs in the store because I believe in them,” Harvey said. “I think you can come in here blindfolded and pick up something good.”
Harvey hand picks every CD, DVD or vinyl available for sale. He said many of the artists found in VGR are bands unknown with great sound and potential.
Customer service is a big point for Harvey. He will play a few tracks of any album to help customers make a decision, and he gives tips on different artists. His true passion for music shows in the aiding of the customers that come and go throughout the day.
Once or twice a month, the store hosts free shows open to all ages to promote local artists.
“I think the record store should be the first go-to place if someone calls themselves a fan of music, especially in their community,” Harvey said.
A Ball State student himself, Harvey has a personal connection with the WCRD radio station.
“WCRD is very special because our peers run the show,” Harvey said. “VGR and WCRD are related in being the last voices of sincere and genuine personality.”
The connection between VGR and WCRD comes alive through “The Spin of the Hour.”
Instead of just playing singles on a chosen album, Harvey plays through each song to give the listener the band’s full experience. One song plays each hour so it isn’t repetitive. “The Spin of the Hour” brings the audience music they may have never heard before.
“WCRD and VGR are helping each other grow and get under the radar bands to the greater public,” Harvey said.
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