Step back into time and reflect on a music era long gone and reminisce about childhood when entering Topeka’s newest record store, Time Machine Records and More. It opened its doors for business September 1, and is the brainchild of Charlie Deiker and Brent Smith. Both Dieker and Smith combined their own vinyl collections and memorabilia, and are planning to add much more as business progresses.

Time Machine Records and More offers more than just music, they offer the experience to go back into time. Dieker’s specialty is memorabilia that includes ‘old new stock,’ which means ‘old merchandise that is still brand new.’ One unique item that Dieker cherishes is a Spike Jones toy drum set from the 1930s that is in mint condition. Another is an early 1940s Ferris wheel made by Chen, a popular toy maker that was well-known during that time. There is also a Cracker Jack baseball bat from the 1920s.

“It’s a fun experience that parents and grandparents had when they were young,” said Deiker.

Time Machine Records and More specialize in vinyl, for new and old collectors alike. Their collection ranges from the 1940s to the middle 1980s, but will add newer vinyl in the near future. Vinyl is definitely making a comeback, and produces a crisp, cool sound when played.

 “Vinyl has a personality. Not only the cover is sweet, but also contains the band or artist’s biography, discography, photos, books and so much more,” said Deiker. “They promote a personality that’s closer to the artist.”

 Smith has been in the record business for seven years, and does business online as well. His specialty is music from the 1950s through the early 1980s. Time Machine Records and More leans more toward a rock genre, but also carries Doo Wop and Blues as well. Deiker’s music interests range from 1950s to 1970s rock. Smith also specializes in imports, special press releases, colored vinyl and specialty labels. Time Machine’s best sellers are definitely 1960s and early 1970s rock.

Music doesn’t have to be expensive. Time Machine has an “El Cheapo” bin with vinyl ranging from $1-3, and a large 45 collection ranging from $1-5.

Time Machine Records and More carry a large Beatles vinyl collection along with their solo projects. There is also a Huge Kiss collection, along with autographed albums and books, comic books, and Kissopoly (A Kiss version of Monopoly).

One thing that Time Machine Records and More does that is unique from other record stores is provides a plastic clear jacket for each album, and puts the record separate from the inside of the cover. Included on a sticker is the year the album was released, artist, title, and the grade, whether it is mint, new, or good condition.

Time Machine Records and More carries local artist Mike Finnigan from Lawrence on vinyl. The Jerms was a group from the 1960s from Topeka which released a few 45s, and came close to recording a full-length album. Time Machine has a few autographed copies from The Jerms that are very hard to find.

Josh Torrez, a part-time employee and recent Washburn grad, feels like he’s in a time machine and enjoys learning about the earlier music that his generation isn’t really familiar with. Torrez has a degree in Criminal Justice, and is currently pursuing a second degree in Spanish.

“You feel it when you walk in the door,” said Torrez.

Time Machine Records and More is located on the corner of 21st and Washburn. Customers love the location of the business, and it is near an active campus along with great parking and lighting. They are closed on Mondays, but are open Tuesday – Friday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

“Topeka has been ready for a new record store for some time now,” said Deiker. “It will definitely be a fun experience to check out and encounter items and music that is hard to find and that you don’t hear too often enough anymore.”