Turning Tables
Shining a light on the tastemakers behind the desk
The official RSD celebrations may be over for the year, but we believe Record Store Day is everyday so we’re continuing our beloved interview segment Turning Tables—shining a light on the faces, names, minds and tastemakers behind the desk who greet our crate-digging friends with invaluable knowledge and an undying love for all things music.
Today we’re featuring Charles-Eddy Vitry aka Charly from Natural Selection in Fitzroy VIC.
Take it away, Charly!
What store can we find you at and how long have you been there?
You can find me at Natural Selection Records on Brunswick St, Fitzroy and we’ve been here for the last 3 years.
How has the store and its customers changed over time?
Well it’s hard to say as we opened a year before Covid, but the support has changed towards the website during the hard times!
What’s your general vibe to kick off the morning music when doors open?
JAZZ all the way (Nujazz, french hip hop also on rotation!!)
Ever had any notable cameo walk-ins in store?
We regularly host international DJ’s but Danny Krivit, Dj Deep and HAAI were definitely the top 3!
Do you remember the first record that started your own collection? Was it bought, gifted or handed down?
Hard to say, I grew up with records as a child. It was that and tapes, a lot of them!!! One of the first ones I remember buying though would probably be some late 90’s french house or hip hop (like Daft St germain and / or most likely Iam or Mc Solaar)!
What about the first record you purchased for someone else? Where’d you buy it?
I’ve always been generous with records, back in the days we would buy 2 copies of the hot ones then trade them with mates or just give away the doubles…
Favourite debut record of all time?
There are so many in so many genres it’s had to pick!! Especially debut album…
Actually I’ll give this one up to local legend ZFEX that came with a beautiful first LP a few years back, the perfect mix of broken beats, nu jazz and house!!!
Tell us about the most valuable (monetary or sentimental) record in your collection. Why is it so important to you?
I don’t really look back at what’s in my collection and what it is worth. If it’s good, I play it and that’s about it. The most expensive record I would have bought would be around $200 I guess!
Favourite Australian release of all time?
It is yet to be released… Claps Band, I’m waiting for you!!!
What would you like to see as an RSD exclusive release in 2023 and why?
I’d like to see more local artists being pushed at the forefront for those exclusive releases and make it more of a thing for emergent artists and record stores than seeing another 180g reissue!!!
What record has been on repeat for you lately?
Common – Like water for chocolate – i absolutely adore this album
Tell us about your favourite artist, and what record of theirs you’d recommend to introduce to someone who’s never heard of them.
I do not have a favourite artist. There are too many good things and I discover more everyday, but I’d invite anyone that wants to discover more to spend a few hours with me at the shop. I’m sure we will both discover heaps of good music!!!
Favourite in-store performance of all time?
ZFEX last show before Ziggy moved to Berlin, lots of local artists jumped and played along, Alicia Joy started singing and playing tambourine, the shop was packed and it was a huge vibe!!!!
Best thing about working at a record store?
The freedom of playing the soundtrack of my day differently, everyday!!!
It’s closing time in the store, what’s spinning?
It actually is right now and I’m playing Master’s At Work – unreleased project – Clouds
Stay up to date with Natural Selection, and get in touch via their website, facebook and instagram.
Store Location
Natural Selection
344 BRUNSWICK ST
FITZROY, VIC, 3065
Opening Hours
Open 7 DAYS // 12 – 18PM
Phone: +61 3 9417 6903