Hitting the bins with Mean Pete (Ether Coven/Remembering Never)

In October 2022 we asked Peter “Mean Pete” Kowalsky (of Ether Coven, Remembering Never, Until The End, xBishopx, and more) to go record shopping. We met up at Tiger Records in Jacksonville, FL to search through the bins.

Though it has taken some time to finally release this video, we feel that the world needs for Pete in it and we are very happy to share these 16+ minutes with the world.

We miss you Pete. 

For those interested, Pete also spent almost 2 hours chatting with us on The Vanflip Podcast, which you can watch here.

Jacksonville, Florida's Tiger Records: A Hub for Vinyl Enthusiasts

Recently, Mean Pete from Ether Coven, known for his tenure in a myriad of bands like Until the End and Remembering Never, graced Tiger Records in Jacksonville, Florida. Owned by James Sabani of Bane and Loma Prieta fame, Tiger Records stands as a mecca for vinyl enthusiasts, boasting a collection that could easily be touted as one of the best in the South.

The $40 Vinyl Challenge

The premise was simple: Lambgoat handed Mean Pete $40 to dive into the treasure trove of Tiger Records. The goal? To see what gems Pete could unearth with a modest budget, offering a glimpse into his taste and the value one can extract from a well-curated record store.

Pete's Picks and Insights

As Pete rummaged through the aisles, his choices were as eclectic as his musical background. He expressed a newfound appreciation for country music, particularly artists like Tyler Childers, indicating a shift in his tastes as he had gotten older. His selection spanned various genres, which reflected his diverse musical taste.

What Makes a Good Record Store?

According to Pete, a good record store is all about curation. It needs a mix of old and new, appealing to both the veteran collectors and newcomers to the vinyl scene. Aesthetics also play a crucial role; a well-organized, visually appealing store can enhance the digging experience.

The Evolution of Collecting

Pete reminisced about the days when Lambgoat was a "little shitty website," paralleling his journey in music with the evolution of vinyl collecting. His comments on the changing landscape of record-collecting were spot on, and will resonate with a lot of you. 

Final Thoughts: The Vinyl Experience

Pete's adventure at Tiger Records wasn't just about what he bought. It was a deep dive into the ethos of vinyl collecting: the thrill of the hunt, the joy of discovery, and the personal connection to music that transcends digital formats.