Rick Carlisle is the owner of Orpheus Records in Clarendon. After nine years at its Wilson Boulevard location, Orpheus is closing its doors. Carlisle has no plans to reopen the store, so thousands of albums, ranging from blues, jazz, rock, punk, to classical, are up for grabs before the closing date.
So when does Orpheus officially close?
We don’t know exactly. Right now, it’s April 1. It’s up to the landlord, but it was the first of April last time I checked with him. We’re hoping that we can stay open longer but that’s life. I’m crossing my fingers.
What will you miss most about the record store?
I haven’t had time to think about it. I’m trying to focus on getting these records out of here and not dwell on the sadder aspects. I’m probably going to miss most the interaction with my regular customers, the ones that have kept me in business for so long.
Name five albums that every music lover needs in their lives?
It’s a totally unfair question. If someone only likes country or blues, why should they want to hear John Coltrane or The Beatles? There are so many good albums out there.
What are your plans after Orpheus closes?
Sit down, take a deep breath and make plans.
You are somewhat known to walk around barefoot in the store? Is it a comfort issue?
It’s simple. I don’t like wearing shoes. The only time I wear shoes is when a place requires shoes but, for the most part, I’m barefoot.
Do you own a mp3 player?
No, they’re the bane of my existence (laughs). It’s not putting me out of business. I’m not going to give you some sob story about the Internet and music downloading. I want to know why you can’t have CDs, cassettes, records and an iPOD? Why does it have to be only one way to enjoy the music?
