Linear Tracking Lives!: Jigsaw's Newest Piece

Friday, May 17, 2019

Jigsaw's Newest Piece

If you're a regular in these parts, you know of my affinity for Jigsaw Records in Seattle. It feels like a record shop put on this planet just for me... a tiny hole in the wall that caters exactly to my tastes and contains no chaff. Chris, the proprietor, has a knowledge of indie music that knows no bounds, and it's always a treat to peruse the racks while talking about bands from our youth and ones about to become the next big thing. In a world where it normally takes quite an effort and a bag full of money to get the latest releases from faraway labels like Firestation, A Turntable Friend, Pretty Olivia, Elefant and Cherry Red, I can pop in and pick them up like I'm in Germany, Spain or the UK. I have discovered bands from around the world and down the street from Chris' own Jigsaw label as well. Yes, indie-pop fans here have been spoiled at our home away from home.

Chris is about to make an exciting change in his life. He's packing up the shop and relocating to Portland, some 175 miles away. Jigsaw will live on, as a shop and a label, just in a new location. Chris is too good a guy not to be happy for him. For those of us back here, like many of you already, it means road trips and mail order. For those of you who already order from Jigsaw regularly, there is a silver lining: Oregon doesn't have sales tax! Jigsaw closes its doors here in Seattle on Sunday. There will be some records on sale, but the real reason to stop by is to wish Chris well on his latest and greatest adventure. There will be three shows this weekend at the adjacent Woodland Theater to celebrate and say goodbye. With acts like Rat Fancy, Zebra Hunt and Chris' own all-star band Unlikely Friends on the bills, it should be quite a party. Check the shop's Facebook page for details.