In the past, vinyl’s future seemed uncertain as digital music took over, making players smaller and files more compressed. However, there has been a resurgence in the popularity of vinyl records.
In the U.S., record sales revenue increased significantly last year to $1.4 billion. Similarly, Canada saw a more than twofold increase in vinyl sales from 2019 to 2021. While these numbers may not match streaming giants’ earnings, they reflect a shift in how people engage with music and explain the rise of “listening bars” worldwide.
At The Little Jerry in downtown Toronto, co-owner Jodie Dewald shared that they exclusively play vinyl, offering customers a rich, textured listening experience through a custom high-fidelity sound system.
Inspired by jazz kissa in postwar Japan, these North American vinyl cafes and listening bars provide a more relaxed atmosphere for patrons. The spaces are finely tuned for optimal listening levels while still allowing for conversation, offering curated music selections and personal vinyl collections from DJs.
According to Brandon Ng, co-founder of Doze Hifi in Vancouver, the aim is to present music as originally intended, akin to a theatrical experience.
In today’s fast-paced world, these listening bars offer a break from excessive screen time, attracting visitors with a tangible connection to music. Dewald explained the enduring appeal of vinyl as its physical nature allows listeners to touch and engage with it, similar to a concert ticket.
Whether you’re an audiophile or simply curious about the quality of recorded music, here are some recommended listening bars and vinyl cafes across Canada.
At 915 Dupont in Toronto, visitors are welcomed into a tranquil space with Japanese paper lamps and soulful jazz and blues records during the day, transitioning to eclectic DJ sets at night.
Sans Soleil Bar in Montreal’s Chinatown enhances the listening experience with a vintage sound system and signature cocktails, accompanied by vinyl sets spun by DJs.
Stillwell Brewing Co. in Halifax offers a dynamic and physical hi-fi sound experience with genre-based listening events and vinyl DJ sets in a retro taproom setting.
The Little Jerry in Toronto provides a cozy hideaway for music lovers with a unique selection of vinyl and a custom sound system for a warm and rich listening experience.
In Montreal, Cafe GotSoul showcases a vast record collection in an art-filled space, hosting vinyl DJs and offering upcycled sound systems for sale.
Doze Hifi in Vancouver reimagines the listening bar concept as a traveling pop-up, prioritizing the music experience with monthly sessions featuring jazz, ambient music, and live sets from guest DJs.
Bar Le Record in Montreal’s Villeray district exudes vintage charm with a collection of over 2,500 vinyl records, inviting guests to groove to music ranging from ’60s jazz to French Touch during weekend DJ sessions.