Vinyl enthusiast Phoenix, or @vinylstrikesback as she’s known on Instagram, has one of the most eclectic collections in the community right now. Jumping from jazz to metal, to (as her username suggests) soundtracks from her favourite films, her feed is a constant source of discovery, and it’s always a pleasure to see what she’s spinning.
In our conversation, Phoenix looks back on almost a decade of collecting vinyl, and shares how documenting her records online led her to one of the most welcoming and rewarding communities on the internet.
Tell us a little bit about yourself:
My name is Phoenix and I’m a vinyl collector who shares my records and love of music on Instagram. Music and media have always been a huge part of how I understand myself and the world. My collection is honestly a little all over the place genre-wise, and I kind of love it that way. I have all my favourite albums from the 50s and up, from rock to jazz, to pop to metal, I’m also a huge movie buff, so collecting soundtracks is a big part of my shelves too. I’m also a huge geek at heart, so some of my most prized records in my collection are soundtracks to all my favourite fictional worlds!
What sparked your interest in collecting records?
I started collecting vinyl in 2016. I was wanting a record player and when my mom got me one, it bloomed into a full blown hobby i have never put down. I’ve always loved albums as complete experiences, and vinyl gave me a way to connect with music more intentionally. I prefer listening to albums, not just songs, albums playing from start to finish instead of just shuffling songs.
What is it about vinyl that you love most?
It’s the whole experience. Pulling the record out, seeing the artwork in full size, and dropping the needle makes listening feel special. Vinyl makes you slow down and really be present with the music, which is something I think we lose a little with streaming. The same goes to the way i collect VHS/DVD as well as books. Time slows down and feels intentional.
“Everyone’s collections are so different, and I’m constantly finding new artists through other collectors”
When did you start sharing your collection on Instagram, and what inspired you to put it out there?
I started sharing my collection in 2018, but took a break for about a year in 2023 after having my firstborn, before coming back in 2025! I realised how fun it was to talk about music with other collectors. At first it was just documenting my records, but it quickly became a way to connect with people who love music the same way I do. I love sharing albums that mean something to me and discovering new ones through the community.
What do you enjoy most about being part of the vinyl community?
Definitely the people and the music discovery. Everyone’s collections are so different, and I’m constantly finding new artists through other collectors. It’s a really supportive and passionate community that just loves sharing music.
Do you have a favourite spot for crate digging, or a memorable find from one of those hunts?
I love thrifting and digging through used record bins, it’s one of my favourite parts of collecting. When I lived in WA, there was a place called Adventures Underground that I loved digging at! When I was 16, I found a pressing of Dan Fogelbergs Windows and Walls, I’d never heard of him before but loved the cover. I took it home and fell in love. There’s something really special about finding an old, well-loved record that’s been waiting for someone to take it home again. At the same time, I’m also a sucker for new pressings and beautiful coloured variants, so my collection is a mix of thrifted gems and modern releases.
Finally, what’s a record you think everyone should own, or at least hear once in their life, and why?
One album I think everyone should hear at least once is Vessels 2.0 by Starset. It’s one of those records that feels incredibly cinematic from start to finish. The mix of rock, electronic elements, and orchestral sounds creates this huge atmosphere that really pulls you into the story of the album. It’s powerful, emotional, and immersive—especially on vinyl where you can really sit with the album and experience the full journey the way it was meant to be heard.
See what Phoenix is spinning over on Instagram.
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