Photo Story: Sounds of Success

Music brought friends Monica Jackomino, Aaron Gooch, and her boyfriend Kyle Weeks, together.

Jackomino, 22, Gooch, 24, and Weeks, 20, have been involved in the local music scene for years, often organizing and scheduling events for fledging musicians hoping for exposure within the community.

But the trio of Traverse City locals felt increasingly disheartened by the lack of retailers selling and promoting independent sounds, especially musicians who seeded their careers in the Traverse City area.

The three decided to band together their shared interests in music and started a small music store called Sound It Out Records, in the upper level of the Front Street Commons in downtown Traverse City.

Their store opened its doors and turned up its speakers in May and sells about 5,000 new and used CDs and vinyl records in addition to posters, band T-shirts and an expanding inventory of merchandise.

"We're trying to fill a niche and need that really isn't around here," Gooch said. "We've ended up more well-rounded working here. We're doing what we love -- sharing and listening to great music."

Photos

Gooch hangs a poster for 'The Breakfast Club.' He recently started working full time. Record-Eagle

Weeks sorts through recently purchased used vinyl records to determine their retail value. Sound It Out Records sells a myriad of merchandise including nearly 5,000 CDs and vinyl records, clothing, posters, DVDs and more. Record-Eagle

Kyle Weeks checks the quality and retail value of an old Beatles album. Record-Eagle

From left, Monica Jackomino, Kyle Weeks and Aaron Gooch are owners of the music store Sound It Out Records located on the upper floor of the Front Street Commons in downtown Traverse City. The three 20-something entrepreneurs opened the music store-s doors in May. Record-Eagle

Gooch stocks inventory with about 25 used vinyl records recently purchased from a customer. Record-Eagle