Relative Theory Records

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The Listening Stations at Relative Theory Records

Shoppers digging through the Relative Theory Selection

Relative Theory Records was an independent record store in Norfolk, Virginia which also functions as a coffee bar, a small concert venue, and an art gallery. It was opened in the winter of 2003-04 by co-owners, co-operators, and friends David Hausman and Joshua Wright, and was closed in June 2007. Prior to opening, Hausman and Wright had visited many other record stores in bigger cities (e.g. Other Music in New York, Plan 9 records in Richmond, VA) and decided to help build a culture in their area instead of fleeing for a ready-made one. Thus, Relative Theory Records was born. They focused on the environment of the store more than anything else, guaranteeing that even if they lacked the selection of a discount music warehouse, they could always capitalize on the coolness factor. This, plus their personable customer service and desire to spread the love of independent music helped them become quick local favorites.

Relative Theory was also a corporate sponsor of WHRO, Hampton Roads public broadcasting network [1].

1 Mission Statement
2 Press
3 Prominent Past Performers
4 Prominent Past Visual Artists with Shows at Relative Theory
5 References
6 External links

[edit] Mission Statement

The official mission statement of Relative Theory Records is as follows:

"Relative Theory Records is an independent record store / venue / art gallery / cafe located in Norfolk, VA. Our ambition is to re-create the record store so that it may persist through these perilous times as the music industry blah blah blah… The importance of touch and feel. You will see in the future how online memories translate in a near-sighted fashion to your children. We hope to provide a way for the independent record store to exist by encouraging community interaction and involvement. Whether it’s a CD or LP, musical performances or art exhibitions, cup of coffee or a bagel, we focus on providing our audience with the tools to help guide them for what it is they seek. We create better dialogue through environment. Listen and learn. We work at a record store. We like this planet. We do what we can." [2]

[edit] Press

The Virginian-Pilot, the main newspaper for Hampton Roads in Virginia published an article concerning the impending closure of Relative Theory Records on June 8, 2007 [3].

The Virginian-Pilot, the main newspaper for Hampton Roads in Virginia published an extensive article concerning the history, nature, and idiosyncracies of Relative Theory Records on December 1, 2005 [4].

Relative Theory was the subject of the weekly feature article/interview of weekly internet publication Left Off The Dial in May of 2004 [5].

[edit] Prominent Past Performers

Frequently functioning as a small concert venue (around 100 people), many notable bands and musicians in the independent music scene have performed there. Here is a list of a few: