Music Institution In Enfield To Close After Four Decades In Business

ENFIELD, CT — One of the longest-tenured small retail stores in Enfield, "a mecca for music collectors" as described by one loyal customer, will soon be shutting its doors after four decades in business.

Music Outlet, which debuted in the Enfield Outlet Mall in the early 1980s, has posted a large sign reading, "Store Closing - 20% Off Sale." Items included in the clearance include in-stock inventory such as new and used CDs, vinyl albums and supplies, posters, DVDs, guitar accessories and much more.

The sale is slated to run through Oct. 29, according to the sign.

Owner Gary Cabot, who is retiring, has long been renowned for carrying hard-to-find items, including imports and out-of-print releases. As the store slogan says, in part, "If we don't have it in stock, we can likely get it for you ... And remember, buying albums in record stores is cool."

New releases from a wide variety of artists from every musical genre has always been a drawing card for the store. Among the new stock available in the next few weeks are anniversary releases from legendary artists like Elvis Presley and David Bowie, as well as new material by groups such as Cardiomyotomy and Takalaiton.

Since the store's closing announcement was posted Sunday on social media, customers from the old mall (and its Sunday flea market) to the Stop & Shop Plaza to its current location in the Hazard Trade Mart have expressed their memories of this unique retailer.

• "Say it isn't so. You had a great run Gary. Music Outlet will surely be missed."
• "I've been buying music from Gary since 1985 and this makes me sad to read. I've left my heart in every location and know that every album I ever bought there is special for that reason."
• "Gary I still have my 80s posters from your original store!"
• "Early 90’s skateboard rides (against our parents wishes) to Music Outlet with my boys will forever be one of my favorite memories. First stop was always at the “New Releases” board. Truly a staple in Enfield history."
• "It was a blast working there, discovering so much amazing music, and getting to know all of you crazy music fans!"
• "I started buying records from Gary when he was selling them at the flea market in the old Enfield mall. What a great run! Enjoy your retirement!"
• "Gary has for sure earned his retirement. He has been there for so many of us over the years: supplying our music; keeping us stocked up in posters and other assorted things; special ordering anything we needed that he could get and lending us all a kind ear and any help that he could provide."
• "Absolute legendary store! Gary and his staff introduced me to so many new bands that I most likely would have never known of otherwise. All the special orders and rare imports that would just pop up."

Store hours are Tuesday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.