All Killer, No Filler: Inside Ironhead Records in Port Jervis, New York

Explore the vibrant world of Ironhead Records and how this Port Jervis gem is fueling the metal and punk community with passion and rare vinyl treasures.

Discovering Port Jervis: A Hidden Gem with Punk Spirit

Nestled snugly between New Jersey and Pennsylvania, Port Jervis, New York, is one of those quaint small cities that’s quietly blossomed into a cultural hotspot. With its charming blend of Victorian and Gothic Revival architecture standing alongside trendy eateries and a sound-bath-offering yoga studio, this town feels like a secret waiting to be unraveled.

Just 90 minutes from Manhattan, the city draws a fascinating mix of young professionals and long-time locals. It’s this unique atmosphere—historic yet alive, authentic without pretense—that caught Jesse Traynor’s eye. Jesse, a New Jersey native with a hardcore and metal background, described Port Jervis perfectly:

“Port Jervis has this rare mix of being historic without being stuck, and being up-and-coming without being pretentious. It’s scrappy, supportive, and full of people who genuinely want the city to thrive. There’s a DIY spirit here that fits perfectly with punk, metal, and independent music culture.”

From Animal Advocacy to Extreme Metal: Jesse’s Journey

Before Ironhead Records became a reality, Jesse's life was a blend of public service and underground music. With a career focusing on animal cruelty enforcement, he simultaneously played in extreme metal and hardcore bands. He even ran a punk label called Sunshine Ward Recordings straight out of his garage. This background laid the foundation for what would become a record store with soul.

Ironhead Records: A Loud, Proud Home for the Underground

Ironhead Records opened its doors in Port Jervis with a clear mission: to cater “to fans of the loud, the heavy, and the underground.” Beyond vinyl, Jesse’s store offers CDs, cassettes, apparel, and even witchy books and trinkets—a nod to the darker aesthetics beloved by metal fans.

What drew Jesse to Port Jervis was more than just location:

“I had been coming to Port Jervis, New York for many years to get tattooed at The Shop, which is a world-class tattoo studio, so it was already on my radar. I loved the mix of old-school spirit and new creative energy around town, and all the small businesses support each other here. Port Jervis was the only place that truly felt like the right home for Ironhead Records.”

Vinyl’s Renaissance: Why Now Is the Time

Despite economic uncertainties, vinyl’s appeal remains steadfast. Jesse sums it up:

“Despite the ebb and flow of the economy, vinyl isn’t just surviving; it’s thriving. I think people have realized that they want something real and tactile. They want physical art, liner notes, and the knowledge that their purchase is forever.”

The physicality and collectability of records resonate especially well with metal and punk fans, who Jesse describes as “overwhelmingly collectors and explorers.” For them, a record store is more than a shop; it's a community hub where passion meets discovery.

A Friendly Chat with Jesse Traynor: Records, Metal, and Memories

What was the first record you ever bought and your first live concert?

At the risk of sounding a little nostalgic, Jesse’s first record was the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles soundtrack at age nine. His first heavy metal album? Guns N’ Roses’ Appetite For Destruction. His first live show was Type O Negative on the Bloody Kisses tour, opening for Queensrÿche.

Why do people need more metal in their lives?

“Because metal is honest. It doesn’t sugarcoat anything. It channels anger, grief, catharsis, power, rebellion, and joy all at once. Metal gives people a place to put the things they can’t say out loud. Plus, let’s be real; it’s fun. Loud, ridiculous, theatrical fun. Everyone could use more of that.”

What’s the best metal band of all time, and which album should everyone own?

Jesse is torn between giants like Iron Maiden and Motörhead for the title of best metal band. When it comes to a must-have album, he picks Morbid Angel’s Altars of Madness, a brutal and haunting classic that set the blueprint for modern death and black metal. Alternatively, Emperor’s In the Nightside Eclipse holds a special place with its lo-fi, atmospheric fury.

How do you find records for the store?

Ironhead specializes in newly pressed records, avoiding the typical attic or swap meet finds. Jesse spends countless hours reaching out to bands and small labels, scouring overseas distros, and sifting through demos. His motto? “All killer, no filler.”

What’s the rarest or most expensive record in your store?

Jesse treasures a near-mint 1992 Profanatica/Masacre split and a 1993 first pressing of Satyricon’s Dark Medieval Times. He also has three sealed Bethlehem Dark Metal cassette collector boxes limited to just 60 copies worldwide. Despite these gems, Jesse is committed to keeping prices accessible so younger fans can grab multiple records and keep exploring.

What’s your personal favorite album?

Helmet’s Meantime holds the crown for Jesse. Its blend of metal and hardcore is as heavy and raw as it gets—and it even inspired the name “Ironhead” through a track on the album.

Any advice for aspiring record store owners?

“Do it for the community, not the cash. Know your genres and don’t try to be everything to everybody. Price fairly. Be honest. Create a space people want to hang out in, not just shop. And most importantly, let your passion show. People can tell when a store is run by someone who genuinely loves music, and I think they’ll support you for it.”

“Ironhead Records exists because heavy and loud music deserves a home in Port Jervis. We’re here to build something lasting and real, and something for which the community can feel proud. Our tagline is ‘Uneasy Listening,’ because not everything beautiful has to be comfortable.” – Jesse Traynor

Why Ironhead Records Matters in Today’s Music World

In a time where digital streaming dominates, Ironhead Records reminds us why vinyl and physical music culture still matter. The store’s deep connection to community, passion for underground metal and punk, and dedication to rare, hard-to-find releases make it a beacon for collectors and newcomers alike.

Whether you’re digging through crates, picking up a cassette, or chatting about the nuances of death metal riffs, Ironhead is proof that vinyl isn’t just surviving—it’s thriving in the hands of the devoted.

FAQ

• What genres does Ironhead Records specialize in?
  Ironhead focuses on metal, punk, and other underground heavy music genres.
• Does Ironhead Records sell only vinyl?
  No, they also offer CDs, cassettes, apparel, and unique items like witchy books.
• How does Ironhead source its rare records?
  The owner reaches out directly to bands and small labels, explores overseas distributors, and dives into demos and message boards.
• Is Ironhead Records involved in the local community?
  Absolutely. Jesse emphasizes community-building, collaboration with local businesses, and creating a welcoming space.
• Can newcomers to metal find something at Ironhead?
  Yes! The store encourages exploration and offers a variety of records suitable for both seasoned fans and newcomers.

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