Ken H.
Yelp
The two most salient facts I need to include here about this brand-spanking-new beaut of a record store are as follows:
1. This store is owned by Hector W. This man is the resident DJ at an event called Funky Sole, which occurs regularly on Sunset Blvd.
2. DJ Dennis Owens of The Good Foot at Alex's Bar is going to work at this record store.
These two men are obviously exceptionally knowledgeable on the topics of funk music, soul music, and record sales. I am not as familiar with Hector, the owner, but I was present for the grand opening. Hector effected a calm, professional demeanor and managed to pull off a truly grand opening. The inventory of the store really soulidified my opinion of Hector. I saw countless essential and rare records from all major genres. The crate diggers came out for this one, and the inventory at Twelves had them foaming in the New Arrivals section. Credit to Hector's music taste for the event's success.
DJ Dennis Owens was, is, and will be as indispensable to Twelve's success as Hector. Dennis has extensive experience in the music industry, record sales, and vinyl collecting. I have seen him DJ a couple times now. The man is a turntable wizard. DJ Dennis knows all genres of music. His soul record sets are particularly exquisite. He did a guest DJ set at the opening, and he informed me he will be working Wednesdays at Twelves. Take it from me: take any and all pieces of advice or recommendations that DJ Dennis Owens gives. He is thoroughly involved in the world of DJ music and prides himself on remaining conversant in all things tunes. I repeat: listen to this guru.
The decor really fit the music on sale and the sensibility of anyone who loves funky soul beats. I saw a few great promo posters from old soul concerts. The records sit neatly in unpretentious bins. One distinctly pretty piece of Keith Haring's art rests against the wall just above the cash register. That Haring poster really ties the whole record store together, and I hope it stays up there for years to come.
I loved what I saw in the inventory too. Plenty of soul, funk, and disco hits. James Brown, Funkadelic, and Donna Summer were there. Ditto Brenton Wood. I ended up buying a couple 45s and one disco 12". DJ Dennis Owens nodded at one of my 45s because it was a copy of Funkadelic's "Not Just Knee Deep." Just one example of the funky goodness to be had at low cost in Twelves. I'll be back on the night train to acquire more Soul Power in the future.