Seattle Record Stores
There are numerous CD and record stores in almost every corner of Seattle. Most are unfortunately a bit lacking in their selection of extreme metal and underground music, but there are a handful of exceptions. Here's the roundup:
This is the only record store in the area that really caters to underground metal and similar genres. It's a tiny music store in Capitol Hill that seems to specialize mainly in reggae, electronica and dub, and to a lesser extent, underground metal. Unlike many stores in the area, they have a large, well-stocked metal section containing some surprisingly obscure stuff. The prices might be a tad higher than other places, but you can't argue with a good selection of metal. They even have a few metal t-shirts. Highly recommended.
They have a website at ZionsGate.com so you can order online and search their catalog. Metal label Kreation Records is also affiliated with Zion's Gate.
Easy Street Records seems to be one of the better general record stores in the area. They have two large stores in the area, each with a separate metal section. Prices are decent, and the used CD sections are substantial. Searching for albums and artists on the Easy Street Records Website is a good way to get an idea of what they might or might not have in stock at the stores.
It's also worth noting that Easy Street sometimes has interesting in-store performances from local acts. For example, Earth and Wolves in the Throne Room have both performed there.
Located in Capitol Hill, this place also has a large store with fair prices and a decent amount of used CDs. Their extreme music selection is above-average, but you probably won't find any ultra-obscure stuff here. One great thing about the store is that it's smack in the middle of Capitol Hill and open very late.
This store in the University District isn't too shabby. Their metal selection is not mind-blowing, and they don't have too many used items, but you might get lucky and find some interesting stuff here.
Sonic Boom has several stores located around Seattle. They cater mainly to rock and indie, and not much else. Their catalog is also searchable via the Sonic Boom Records website, so you can get an idea of what they may or may not carry.
Silver Platters has several stores in the greater Seattle area. The appearance of their shelves and artist labels is really similar to what Tower Records used to look like. Their selection can be surprisingly good, depending on which store you go to. The prices are not the greatest, and you definitely shouldn't expect to find ultra-obscure stuff here. You might be surpised at what you can find at their stores though. It's definitely worth a look.