One of the unfortunate casualties of the information age is the decline of record stores. While fans have more access to music online than ever before, we have lost something truly special.

The local record store was more than just a place to discover music, it was gathering place for music lovers. And some of the best record shops were pivotal to the culture in the cities and towns where they operated.

Luckily, here in Wyoming, there's still a few old school record stores left. They are the last of a dying breed and here's hoping they will continue to survive. In no particular order, these are the five best record shops in the Cowboy State.

Ernie November in Cheyenne - Part of a chain that operates stores in Cheyenne, Billings, Montana, Rapid City, South Dakota, and Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Ernie November specializes in new releases, vinyl, clothing and music memorabilia. Their Cheyenne shop is located downtown in the one of the city's most historic row of buildings.

Sonic Rainbow CD's in Casper - Not only does this cool little shop in Casper carry the latest releases, they also help promote local bands. They stock music and merchandise from several local and regional acts, along with an impressive vinyl collection.

Mammoth Music in Riverton - More of a music supply shop than a traditional record store, but Mammoth makes the list for their selection of new releases, vinyl and their monthly open mic jams that spotlight local musicians. They also repair instruments and offer lessons.

Graffiti Records in Rock Springs - Everything a small town record store should be, they specialize in metal and punk, offering a wide variety of new releases and old records. They also carry a huge stock of clothing and accessories for rockers in western Wyoming.

Phoenix Books and Music in Cheyenne - If you're a collector, chances are you will unearth some buried treasures at this quaint little shop in downtown Cheyenne. They also host the monthly Knights of the Turntable meeting, where a gathering of music enthusiasts share their passion for vintage vinyl.

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