Marc West joins the sixth birthday of Oxford's plucky little independent music shop –Truck Store

Considering this small city gave the world some of its biggest musical acts – from shoe-gazers Ride to Britpop scamps Supergrass, stadium rockers Foals to the one-and-only Radiohead – places to buy their music have been steadily falling like flies…all except one.

By always looking for new and exciting ways to engage with Cowleyfornia’s creative communities, Truck Store has survived as the only independent remaining in a city once awash with record racks. Born from a three-day pop-up produced by Truck Festival organisers Robin and Joe Bennett – in the former video rental shop, Videosyncratic – this OX4 institution has upheld the spirit with which the Steventon gathering was first founded and quickly become an old head on young shoulders.

With friendly service and unparalleled knowledge, it’s bucked the trend of one of the recording industry's most turbulent times. More than that, they’ve embraced the notion that added value and diversification in the market place is the key to keep on truckin’.

The store has long been at the forefront of the ever-expanding vinyl revival and also surfed the froth wave of caffeine culture by introducing artisan coffee to the mix, with Mostro's expert baristas running at 78rpm to provide that perfect kick while searching through the vinyls.

So, what better place to bolster your collection – before proudly carrying home and lovingly arrange, then rearrange. But, it provides much more than just hipster retail therapy. It’s an epicentre for the city's renowned music scene and a welcoming environment to meet like-minded musicians, start your first band and even dream about hitting the big time too.

The essential ingredient here is, of course, the music itself and since 2011 hundreds of local and national acts have graced the six square feet of stage. And, to celebrate six successful years some familiar faces dropped by to get the party started.

Local legends Candy Says offer up their unique “Brexit Wave” soundscapes and really roll out the barrel with a slo-mo rendition of Happy Birthday, dedicated to manager Carl Smithson who is also another year older.

The intimacy of the shop makes watching performances here really something special – despite being packed out with beer-swigging faces you could hear a pin drop for ColdRedLight's heartfelt set.

Of course, you can't have a celebration without cake – and the team baked enough Truck Monster-themed treats to satisfy the munchies of OX4's party people.

While digital platforms may provide fans with instant and unlimited access to a cosmos of music, they simply can’t match the unique experience that going to your local specialist and discovering your 'new favourite band' provides.

Located at 101 Cowley Road, this is one room I'd willingly be banished to if it meant sharing this musical journey until oblivion.

If you want to get in the groove, check out Truck Store Evenings after hours every Thursday until 8pm. This weekly gathering features guest DJs, chilled vibes and interesting beers from local breweries.

truckmusicstore.co.uk