Watch Sound it Out

Sound it Out is a heartwarming documentary film that takes a close look at the last remaining independent record shop in Teesside, United Kingdom. The film provides an intimate view of the lives of a group of record shop regulars and customers, who are as loyal to the store as they are to the music they purchase. The film is set in Teesside, a post-industrial town where job opportunities have dwindled, and the local youth are struggling to find their place in society. Sound it Out, an unassuming record store situated in the heart of the town, is the only surviving vinyl store in the area, and it has become a cultural staple of the community.

The film features interviews with the shop owner, Tom, employees, including Kelly, and various customers, including some who have been visiting the record store for nearly three decades. The interviews provide unique perspectives on the significance of the record store in a world where most music consumption occurs digitally.

The documentary delves into the emotional connections that people have with music and how Sound it Out has been a vital hub for this connection within the community. The film also showcases the historical significance of the store, its contribution to the local music scene and its relationship with the wider music industry.

The sound and visual design are expertly crafted to mirror the record store's ambiance. The camera movements are intimate, providing an up-close portrayal of the day-to-day operation of the shop. The film also includes an exquisitely curated soundtrack that showcases the wide array of music genres that the store caters to, ranging from punk to soul to indie rock.

One of the main themes of the film is how the record store, and the culture of vinyl, provides a sense of belonging and identity to its customers, many of whom have been visiting the store since their teenage years. The film shows how this connection is passed down through generations, with parents introducing their children to the store, and in turn, those children becoming regular customers.

The interviews with the customers reveal that Sound it Out is more than just a record store; it's a sanctuary where people can connect with like-minded individuals and feel a sense of community. The customers are not just buying records; they are engaging in a dialogue and forming friendships.

Sound it Out also explores the tension between the nostalgia of vinyl records and the inevitability of technological advancement. The rise of digital music streaming services and the closure of music stores has made the experience of buying records and engaging with other music enthusiasts more challenging. However, the film suggests that the physical aspects of purchasing physical records, the tactile sensation of flipping through records, and the connection with the music, is a significant part of music culture that cannot be replicated online.

In conclusion, Sound it Out is a captivating and evocative film that captures the essence of a particular cultural moment. The movie provides a glimpse into an era that is now considered by many to be a bygone age. It serves as a testament to the power of community and the importance of preserving cultural institutions. The film is a must-watch for anyone interested in vinyl records, music culture, and small businesses' impact on local communities.