Once facing uncertainty, vinyl’s future now shines bright. While digital music dominated, vinyl sales in the U.S. surged, reaching $1.4 billion last year. Canada also saw a remarkable rise in vinyl sales, more than doubling between 2019 and 2021.
The resurgence of vinyl reflects a shift in how people engage with music, leading to the rise of “listening bars” globally. These establishments, like The Little Jerry in Toronto, offer a unique experience by exclusively playing vinyl records on top-tier sound systems.
Inspired by Japan’s jazz kissa culture, these modern listening bars in North America provide a relaxed setting for music enthusiasts. The focus is on creating an immersive listening environment where curated vinyl selections and live DJ sets take center stage.
In a world filled with distractions, the allure of listening bars lies in their ability to offer a break from screen time and a return to the pure enjoyment of music. The tactile nature of vinyl adds to its appeal, creating a unique and tangible connection to the music.
For those intrigued by the idea of exploring music in a new light, here are some notable listening bars and vinyl cafés worth visiting in Canada.
915 Dupont
Behind its unassuming exterior, 915 Dupont in Toronto transforms into a serene space filled with ambient lighting and soulful tunes. By day, it functions as a cozy café, offering patrons a laid-back atmosphere to enjoy jazz and blues records.
Come nightfall, 915 Dupont evolves into a vibrant hub for eclectic music genres, courtesy of guest DJs spinning funky beats on a custom hi-fi sound system.
Sans Soleil Bar
Located beneath a Japanese restaurant in Montreal’s Chinatown, Sans Soleil Bar is dedicated to enhancing the listening experience. The intimate setting, complemented by a vintage sound system and custom speakers, invites guests to immerse themselves in vinyl sets spun by talented DJs.
With hours-long DJ sessions and a cozy ambiance, Sans Soleil Bar offers a unique escape from digital music consumption.
Stillwell Brewing Co.
In Halifax, Stillwell Brewing Co. stands out as a haven for vinyl enthusiasts. The taproom’s cutting-edge audio system delivers a dynamic sound experience, setting the stage for genre-themed listening events and live DJ sets.
This retro-inspired venue offers a blend of music and craft beer, creating a distinct atmosphere for music lovers to revel in.
The Little Jerry
Nestled in Toronto’s vibrant neighborhood, The Little Jerry is a hidden gem for music aficionados. Boasting a unique selection of vinyl records and a team of dedicated DJs, this hi-fi listening bar offers an immersive experience like no other in the city.
With its warm ambiance and carefully curated music collection, The Little Jerry invites guests to savor the nostalgic charm of vinyl records.
Café GotSoul
Situated in Montreal’s music-rich district, Café GotSoul is a haven for audiophiles. Run by music industry veterans, this art-filled café hosts vinyl DJs and offers a diverse selection of music genres, from disco to jazz, creating a vibrant space for music enthusiasts.
Guests can enjoy live DJ sets, browse vinyl collections, and immerse themselves in a unique blend of music and coffee culture.
