Port Jervis: A City of Revival and Music
Situated between the borders of New Jersey and Pennsylvania, Port Jervis in Orange County, New York, is undergoing a remarkable transformation. The city blends historical Victorian and Gothic Revival architecture with modern establishments like trendy eateries and a yoga studio offering sound baths. Just a 90-minute drive from Manhattan, the area attracts young professionals while maintaining its long-standing local charm, including a deli known for Eastern European delicacies.
Jesse Traynor, a New Jersey native, shares his perspective: “Port Jervis combines history with progress without pretension. It’s a supportive community with a DIY spirit that complements punk, metal, and indie music culture. Small businesses here become integral to the community.” Jesse’s background includes public service in animal cruelty enforcement and involvement in extreme metal and hardcore bands. He also ran Sunshine Ward Recordings, a punk label, from his garage.
Recently, Jesse launched Ironhead Records, targeting fans of heavy and underground music. The store offers CDs, cassettes, apparel, and “witchy” books and items.
Jesse explains his choice of location: “I’ve been visiting Port Jervis for tattoos at The Shop, a renowned tattoo studio. The town’s mix of old and new energy appealed to me, and local businesses support each other. It was the perfect place for Ironhead Records.”
Despite economic challenges, Jesse believes in the enduring appeal of vinyl records. “Vinyl is thriving because people crave something tangible. They want physical art and liner notes. Metal and punk fans are collectors and explorers, making a record store a community hub for discovery and passion.”
Personal Insights and Music Recommendations
First Record and Concert: Jesse’s first record purchase was the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles soundtrack at age 9, and his first heavy music record was Guns N’ Roses’ Appetite For Destruction. His first concert was Type O Negative on the Bloody Kisses tour.
Why Metal Matters: “Metal is honest, channeling emotions like anger and joy. It provides an outlet for unsaid feelings and is fun, loud, and theatrical.”
Top Metal Bands: Jesse is torn between Iron Maiden and Motörhead, citing their influential material. For a single album recommendation, he suggests Morbid Angel’s Altars of Madness or Emperor’s In the Nightside Eclipse.
Store Operations and Philosophy
Ironhead Records focuses on newly pressed records, avoiding attics and swap meets. Jesse sources limited edition underground releases by connecting with bands and labels, ensuring the store offers high-quality selections.
Rarest Record: The store features rare items like a near-mint 1992 Profanatica/Masacre split and a first press of Satyricon’s Dark Medieval Times. Despite having rare items, Jesse keeps prices accessible to encourage exploration.
Personal Favorite Album: Jesse’s favorite is Helmet’s Meantime, which inspired the store’s name.
Advice for Aspiring Store Owners: “Focus on community, not profit. Know your genres, price fairly, and create a welcoming space. Let your passion shine, and people will support you.”
Ironhead Records aims to be a lasting and meaningful presence in Port Jervis, offering a home for heavy music under the tagline “Uneasy Listening.”
