In what is being described as a first for Scotland, Glasgow South East Asian bar & brasserie, Mamasan, has transformed into a dedicated ‘listening bar’, with a programme of global DJs and ‘exceptional sound quality’ to appeal to audiophiles.
Following a comprehensive hi-fi overhaul and the installation of a bespoke, state-of-the-art sound system designed by sound engineers to elevate late-night cocktails and dining to ‘an unparalleled auditory experience’, the venue launched its new offer over the Easter weekend.
Originating from 1950s Japan, the listening bar concept blends intimate dining with top-grade music listening. These venues, which emerged in Tokyo’s small bars, cafes, and record stores, serve as a hub for music lovers seeking a relaxed environment to appreciate high-fidelity sound.
But despite being named as the vinyl-collecting capital of the UK, Glasgow hasn’t had an audio bar concept to call its own, until this opening.
Aiming to cater for a change in Glaswegian nightlife habits, the new Mamasan audio offer will be curated by music specialists, Open Ear, giving guests an interesting lineup of global musicians playing vinyl in the heart of Glasgow.
The venue has collaborated with leading music-tech brands including Technics, Pioneer, Master Sounds, Small Town Audio and Danley to unlock the full potential of recorded music, to elevate the guest experience for audiophiles and vinyl lovers alike.
An exciting roster of musical programming is already booked, including Chris ‘Beans’ Geddes of Belle & Sebastian, Harri from Glasgow’s iconic Sub Club, Nick Peacock from The Buff Club, and session drummer and DJ Toni McVey.
This auditory feast is complemented with a brand new cooked-over-fire casual sharing menu crafted in partnership between top Scottish chef, Finn Steel-Perkins, and Great British Menu star, Ali Borer, alongside ‘innovative’ cocktails from the bar.
Founder of Mamasan, Brad Stevens, said: “When Mamasan opened in 2020, our vision was to create a stylish dining concept that was as much about the drinks and music as the food.
“Due to the restrictions in place throughout the pandemic, we couldn’t finish the job we started. Now our new state-of-the-art sound equipment, combined with incredible Thai BBQ food and drinks, means we’ve elevated the guest experience and we can’t wait for Glasgow to join us at Scotland’s first dedicated listening bar for an outstanding line-up of music.”
Speaking about programming, Kevin McCrorie of Open Ear Music and DJ Matthew K said: “It’s a great honour to curate the lineup for Scotland’s first audiophile bar. In a world where any song is available to anyone at the click of a button, it’s important to have a place where music can be heard as it was intended.
“People will get the opportunity to hear music, with clear, pristine sound on an amazing system, yet will still be able to hold a conversation without the volume being overpowering. For a music loving city such as Glasgow, this is a much welcome addition. Look out for some special names over the next few months.”
