Vinyl records faced a period of uncertainty as digital music took over, but the physical format has staged a remarkable comeback. In the U.S., record sales revenue soared by double digits to $1.4 billion last year. Canada also witnessed a surge in vinyl sales, more than doubling between 2019 and 2021. While streaming platforms still dominate the music industry, the resurgence of vinyl reflects a shift in how people engage with music, leading to the emergence of “listening bars” in cities worldwide.
At The Little Jerry, a record bar in downtown Toronto, co-owner Jodie Dewald shared that they exclusively play vinyl on a custom high-fidelity sound system, offering patrons an immersive musical experience. Inspired by the concept of jazz kissa in postwar Japan, these modern vinyl cafés and listening bars in North America create a laid-back ambiance for music enthusiasts. The venues are meticulously designed for optimal sound quality, allowing for both attentive listening and casual conversations, a departure from traditional kissa’s quiet reverence for music.
These hi-fi establishments prioritize curated music selections and personal vinyl collections over algorithm-generated playlists, providing a theater-like experience for visitors. The rise of listening bars is seen as a retreat from excessive screen time, offering a physical space to appreciate music. For many, the allure of vinyl lies in its tangible nature, akin to holding a concert ticket.
Whether you’re an audiophile or simply curious about high-fidelity music experiences, Canada boasts a variety of listening bars and vinyl cafés worth exploring.
915 Dupont in Toronto features a dual setup, functioning as a daytime café with soulful jazz and blues records and transitioning to a nighttime venue with guest DJs spinning eclectic music genres. Sans Soleil Bar in Montreal offers a unique listening atmosphere with vintage sound systems and curated vinyl sets. Stillwell Brewing Co. in Halifax hosts genre-based listening events and vinyl DJ sets in a retro taproom. The Little Jerry in Toronto stands out with its cozy ambiance and diverse vinyl collection, while Café GotSoul in Montreal showcases international and Canadian vinyl DJs in an art-filled space. Doze Hifi in Vancouver offers a traveling pop-up listening experience, prioritizing sound quality and diverse music genres. Bar Le Record in Montreal exudes vintage charm with a vast vinyl collection and guest DJs playing a range of music styles.
These listening bars and vinyl cafés cater to music enthusiasts seeking a premium and communal music listening experience.
