Hellbender Vinyl - Behind the Scenes

As we wrap up another week here at Hellbender Vinyl, what stands out most is the deep sense of purpose that drives every press, every groove, and every crackle of static. We're not just manufacturing records, we're forging tangible connections between artists and their listeners. Every record that glides smoothly from our press is a story captured in plastic, an emotional imprint that exists beyond the realm of streaming numbers and fleeting digital drops.

Being Pittsburgh’s only vinyl pressing plant, we've watched local musicians - whether underground punk bands, experimental ambient artists, or driving indie acts - bring their creative visions to life in ways that only vinyl can convey. Whether it’s the satisfying thud when you place the needle on a heavyweight sleeve or the lingering resonance in a locked groove, these are sensory experiences that convey authenticity and heart. According to our owner Jeff Betten, vinyl becomes “a physical manifestation of someone’s hopes and dreams,” and that remains as true today as ever.

Our team, too, is more than just a group of operators. Many of us are musicians, designers, and audiophiles: creatives who understand that a record is more than sound. It's about sight, touch, and story. Orlando Marshall, known on stage as Buscrates, is as passionate about pressing vinyl as he is about DJ sets. He always reminds us that our quality control isn’t just a process - it’s pride in every note captured.

But it’s not just the craft that's driving us: it’s our role in revitalizing Pittsburgh’s music community and bringing eco-conscious manufacturing to the forefront. We’ve seen firsthand how people gather around record release parties, how they find community during Record Store Day, and how families reminisce around a shared album.

And all the while, we're quietly innovating and embracing sustainability in our processes and design, working to ensure that each record is not only beautiful and sonically rich but also kind on our environment.

So, to every artist who trusted us with your music, every collector who turned our plant’s efforts into a cherished piece of your collection, and every curious newcomer who picked up the needle for the first time: thank you. Each record we press is a piece of you made manifest. We’re honored to help you share it with the world.

Stay tuned - because behind every record we craft, there's a new story waiting to play!