Suitcase Records is a family business that presses high-quality vinyl records. Since opening in 2021, it has quickly become an exciting addition to Brisbane’s local music scene. I recently had the chance to visit Suitcase Records. The reason for making the journey was to collect new albums by local artists for my store Glitter Records. These included records by Eves Karydas, Ashgroove, and Asha Jefferies. To my surprise, just three of more than 374 albums Suitcase Records has made since opening. While I was there co-owner Kathy Wilson, who runs Suitcase Records with her partner Neil Wilson, generously showed me around and shared some fascinating insights.
Pressing Vinyl is a Science and an Art
Kathy gave me an in-depth tour of the plant and explained how the process works. Suitcase Records uses an Allegro Line II Press, a machine capable of pressing a record every 30 seconds. This bright yellow device caught my eye immediately, and Kathy explained that it is a fully modern machine, blending cutting-edge Hong Kong and Italian design.
The process starts with small vinyl cakes that are placed in a large, heated press. Inside the press, metal moulds, called stampers, hold the grooves that carry the music. When the press closes, it flattens the vinyl and imprints the grooves. Afterwards, the vinyl is cooled, packaged, and sent out as a finished record.
Kathy told me that, despite having mastered the technical side of things, it still feels a bit like magic to her. She is still awestruck that such incredible music can come out of something as simple as a vinyl record.
The Allegro Line II Vinyl Press in action!
Climate Challenges and Creative Designs
Brisbane’s tropical climate plays a significant role in vinyl production. The city’s heat and humidity can affect both the materials and the Allegro press. However, Kathy and Neil have now spent a great deal of time learning how to adapt to these challenges. Their ability to maintain a consistent standard of quality, despite Brisbane’s unique challenges, is a true testament to their skill and dedication.
In my experience, challenges often lead to creative breakthroughs and unique results. That’s certainly the case at Suitcase Records, where originality is at the heart of their work. During my visit, Kathy showed me some of their striking designs, including splatter vinyl and custom colour blends. One of their techniques, a slow drip colour splash, creates a stormy psychedelic effect. To me, this design feels distinctly Brisbane—bold, vibrant and constantly changing.
Sustainable Materials
Kathy and Neil have a strong commitment to sustainability. For example, they reuse vinyl trimmings to create new colour blends. They are also exploring eco-vinyl. An alternative material used by artists like Billie Eilish to help reduce their environmental footprint. Kathy shared that she is excited to begin using these materials. Not only are they better for the planet, she shared, but the albums Suitcase can make with them sound and look amazing.
Final Thoughts on Suitcase Records
What still surprises me most is how hands-on and fast the process is. The Allegro Line II Press at Suitcase is making a new record every 30 seconds, Kathy, Neil, and their team are involved in every step. They keep a close eye on everything—from monitoring the press to ensuring the vinyl cools properly before packaging. It’s clear that they are dedicated and work hard to ensure each record is the best it can be.
Visiting Suitcase Records was an inspiring experience. Neil and Kathy’s journey—from selling their home to finance the press to their ongoing commitment to local music —shows just how much they care about music and supporting Australian artists. As Brisbane’s music scene continues to grow, Suitcase Records is a great example of how local talent and local industry can work together. I’m excited to see where they go from here. If you’re an indie artist looking to press your music, I highly recommend visiting Suitcase Records. The quality of their work speaks for itself, and it’s amazing to see the artistry behind the record.
