In an era where music is often just a click away, one record store remains a portal to the past. 4000 Holes, Spokane’s longest-standing vinyl shop, is more than just a place to buy records, it’s a sanctuary for music lovers, collectors, and those who still believe in the magic of physical media.

Step through the doors of 4000 Holes, and you might think you’ve fallen into a wonderland of sound. Shelves stacked high with vinyl treasures, forgotten formats like 8-tracks and cassettes, and rare music memorabilia line the walls. Presiding over it all is Bob Gallagher, the shop’s enigmatic owner part record store sage, part Mad Hatter. His white hair and Lennon glasses complete the look; the only thing missing, ironically, is the hat.

What started as a side hustle for Gallagher quickly turned into a full-fledged business. Originally opening on West Shannon Avenue in 1989, 4000 Holes moved to Monroe Street and Maxwell Avenue before settling into its current North Monroe location in 2004. Gallagher, always keeping an ear to the groove, has remained the constant. Nineteen years and going strong, Monroe Street seems like home. For 36 years, Gallagher has been Spokane’s guide through the winding tunnels of music history. His shop, named after the Beatles’ lyric in “A Day in the Life,” has become a beacon for collectors, locals, and traveling audio junkies alike.

Despite fears that digital music would make record stores obsolete, Gallagher has witnessed the resurgence of vinyl firsthand.

“There was a 25 to 30-year blip where digital seemed like it was taking over,” said Gallagher. “But now, younger generations are discovering the joy of owning music.” “People like to own stuff, I call it ‘vinylitis.’”

That affliction has kept 4000 Holes thriving while other independent shops shuttered and the pandemic that closed a lot of businesses. But just like a perfectly tuned turntable, the cycle spun back. Vinyl made its resurgence, and Gallagher was ready.

Even though 4000 Holes has outlived most others, the number of Spokane record shops keeps growing. Gallangher welcomes the competition.

“If the other stores are hurting us financially, I’m not noticing,” Gallagher said. “We’ve been solid forever. Forever. I’m sure the other stores are doing good too, which is really good for the record community.”

John Parker, a loyal customer for over two decades, shares his appreciation for the shop. 

“4000 Holes is a Spokane staple. I’ve been going there for over twenty years and I’ve never been disappointed. Bob’s got some competition up the way, I must say, but more record stores is never a bad thing.”

Inside the store, a music lover’s dream unfolds—classic Metallica and Fleetwood Mac albums find a home alongside modern stars like Billie Eilish and Olivia Rodrigo.

           Lauren Smith, another frequent customer, echoes Parker’s sentiments about the shop’s welcoming atmosphere. “There’s something about walking in that feels different It’s not just about records; it’s about being part of something that brings people together. It’s my happy place. If I’m having a so-so day, I hit up 4000 Holes, and leave in a better mood. I don’t think anyone walks out of here without a smile.”

There was talk in 2019 of Gallagher selling the shop, but for now, Spokane’s Mad Hatter of Vinyl remains behind the counter spinning the soundtrack of the past, present, and future, waiting to send you on your next musical journey. All you have to do is decide which format to choose from.

Whether it’s records, cassettes, CDs, or digital radio, with music, the world’s a better place.”  Gallagher.

 

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