Ask LAist: Lips, Hips and Record Store Tips

We don't pretend to know everything there is to know about Los Angeles. In fact, we'd venture to bet that there are some of you reading right now that think we don't know squat about squat. You'd claim we just got off the greyhound bus from Tupelo and should just shut up already.

First, you're so rude.

Second, don't harsh our vibe. We think we know a little bit. Or at least know where to find it.

We'd love to answer your queries about our city, in exchange for a few of our own, but until you do, we're going to crib from the LA livejournal community where tons of questions are asked and answered every week. Here are a few that we wanted to raise our hand in class to get a crack at over the past few weeks:

Q: What's the best place to sell unwanted, used CDs - Amoeba or the Wherehouse? And is there anywhere that buys VHS movies?

A: Amoeba is the place in the city to sell your old stuff, including DVDs and VHS tapes. Second Spin (particularly for those in the 818) is also a good choice. We haven't had much need to resell lately but found their buy rates pretty competitive when last we went in. They also buy DVDs and video games. With the bigger independent stores like Aron's and UponShop closing recently, these spots are your best bets.

Don't expect any money for your tapes, though. Much like the audio cassette, nobody wants them and nobody cares. They don't even have the hip retro feel of vinyl or the giant laser disc.

Our question - who wants to buy some of our old digital music files? We've got some old mp3s, AACs and wma files for sale. Barely bit-lossed. 4 for a dollar?

Q: Hey, I'm visiting LA for a week. Are any of the strip clubs really outstanding? I won't be there next weekend, only until Thursday. Is full contact allowed, or is it strictly hands-off?

A: We would answer this but we don't go to strip clubs. We go to church and when we're not at church, we're at temple. And, just for fun, we like to hang out at the mosque. So, no strippers for us.

Gridskipper knows, though, and recommends Jumbo's Clown Room amongst others.

No matter where you go, we say keep your hands to yourself. Don't be a cad.

We will take time from our morning prayers to tell you this tidbit - The last Monday of Burlesque at the Derby is this monday. Bella and her ladies are moving to Three Clubs to make room for jam bands. Jam bands instead ladies jammin' on stage in varying degrees of undress? Poor choice, Brown Derby, poor choice.