In the past, the outlook for vinyl appeared dim as technology favored convenience over audio quality. Music devices shrank, and audio files became more compressed. However, there has been a resurgence in the popularity of physical vinyl records.
In the U.S., record sales revenue increased significantly to $1.4 billion last year. Similarly, Canada saw a more than doubling of vinyl sales between 2019 and 2021. While these figures pale in comparison to streaming giants, they reflect a shift in how people engage with music, leading to the rise of “listening bars” in cities worldwide.
At The Little Jerry in downtown Toronto, co-owner Jodie Dewald shared that they exclusively play vinyl, offering patrons a rich and textured music experience through a custom high-fidelity sound system.
Inspired by jazz kissa in postwar Japan, these modern vinyl cafés and listening bars in North America offer a laid-back atmosphere for enjoying high-quality music. Expertly tuned rooms and audio equipment create an immersive listening experience while still allowing for conversations, steering clear of algorithm-driven playlists in favor of staff-curated selections or vinyl from visiting DJs.
According to Brandon Ng, co-founder of Doze Hifi in Vancouver, experiencing music in its pure form is akin to a theatrical performance, providing a break from the digital screen-dominated world.
The allure of vinyl lies in its tangible nature, as described by Dewald, who likened it to a concert ticket that can be touched. Whether you are an audiophile or simply curious about the richness of recorded music, here are some notable listening bars and vinyl cafés to explore in Canada.
915 Dupont in Toronto offers a serene setting with daytime jazz and blues records, transitioning to eclectic DJ sets at night. Sans Soleil Bar in Montreal enhances the listening experience with a vintage sound system, while Stillwell Brewing Co. in Halifax hosts genre-based events and DJ sets in a vibrant taproom.
At The Little Jerry in Toronto, music enthusiasts can enjoy a cozy hideaway with a diverse vinyl collection and a warm, rich sound system. Café GotSoul in Montreal showcases an extensive record library and hosts vinyl DJs regularly. Doze Hifi in Vancouver reimagines the pop-up listening bar experience with monthly sessions focusing on delivering exceptional sound quality.
Lastly, Bar Le Record in Montreal boasts a vintage ambiance and an extensive vinyl collection for guests to groove to classic tunes.