Definitive Records asks interesting Vancouverites to scour their sonic-led memories to pull out the three albums anchoring their musical tastes. Today we hear from Jeff Knowlton, co-owner of Main Street’s eclectic Dandelion Records & Emporium. We’ve done dozens of these interviews over the years but I think this is the first time we’ve ever asked a record store owner for their selections. The results, unsurprisingly, are pretty awesome. Knowlton explains his picks thusly: “Picking a top three is very difficult because it changes from day to day… but here are some that have been floating at the top for me in the past few years…”

Ethiopian Modern Instrumental Hits (1971 album by Mulatu Astatke and others) | LISTEN

“This record contains some of the very best jazz recordings from Ethiopia that I have heard. Top-notch playing with a groove driven desert scale melancholy. Just beautiful.”

Cluster – Sowiesoso | LISTEN

“Berlin school electronic ambient music from 1976. Brian Eno was highly influenced by these guys and even lived with the band and recorded material with them. They do a lot with very few moving parts. Music like this takes restraint and good instincts – both of which Cluster has in quantity.”

William Onyeabor – Who is William Onyeabor? | LISTEN

“Wild Afrobeat with amazing synth funk from the late 70s and early 80s Nigeria. This record is a party. If you’ve somehow missed it then go listen to “Good Name” or “Body and Soul” and don’t be surprised to find yourself a fan. It’s infectious.”