Record stores–especially independently owned shops–across the country have been in peril for years, but, as usual, Houston is keeping it real. Cactus Records, one of the city’s oldest and best-known independent music stores, is re-opening its doors a year and a half after its original owners retired and closed it down. The store’s long-time manager pooled finances with a ragtag team of local businessmen to reinstate the Houston alterna-culture landmark. The store has moved over a few blocks to a new location, but according to co-owner Quinn Bishop, little else has changed: “It has the same vibe as before. We just made it funkier.” Whatever that means! [Houston Chronicle, via Coolfer]