‘Eternyl Vinyl' sets the record straight on how to listen to music
PETALING JAYA : When was the last time you really listened to music?
Like really sitting down with intention, picking an album, pressing play, and losing yourself completely in it – noticing the melodies, the subtle pluck of each instrument, and letting the music take you to another dimension.
'To actually enjoy music in its purest form … like the closest to what artistes recorded in the studio, I believe vinyl is the way to go, and many young people are returning to this nostalgic, vintage trend,' said founder of Eternyl Vinyl Café Lau Jay Earn, 21, who prefers to be known as Jay.
His business partner Yap Ye Heng, 25, who goes by the name Bert, agreed. 'We believe that music is eternal, and the love for music is also eternal. So whether we are listening to a new or old song, I believe that every song should be appreciated, and valued, no matter which era they are from.'
There are 15 listening stations here, equipped with a turntable and noise-cancelling headphones. (Andrea Edmonds @ FMT Lifestyle)
To share that experience, Jay – who also runs two thrift stores in Subang – founded Eternyl Vinyl Café in Petaling Jaya, one of the few vinyl-listening cafés in the country.
With over 500 records, the collection spans Elvis Presley, Elton John, Taylor Swift, Norah Jones, Nat King Cole, Billy Joel, and even movie soundtracks, offering something for everyone.
'I got into the whole vinyl hobby a year ago when I was in the UK. I started collecting records after that and set up a little listening corner in my room,' Jay shared, adding that his first ever vinyl record was a Beatles collection.
'One day we were just chatting and Jay thought why not share the vinyl experience with others?
'We know more young people are returning to this way of listening but we also understand that it is an expensive hobby.
'So, Jay wanted to open a space where anyone can come in and enjoy music this way,' Bert, a marketing strategist, added.
Eternyl has over 500 vinyl records in its collection. (Andrea Edmonds @ FMT Lifestyle)
And that's exactly what Eternyl Vinyl offers. The moment you step into the café, you're transported to a different world – one that feels like it's been lifted straight from the pages of a novel.
The space is softly lit with amber lamps, dotted with potted plants in cosy corners, and furnished with low leather couches that seem to invite you to sink right in.
Every detail is intentionally designed to create an atmosphere of calm and curiosity. You can browse through the records, pick a favourite, set it on a turntable at one of 15 listening stations, slip on a pair of noise-cancelling headphones, press play – and let the soft crackle of the vinyl transport you.
Jay and his team keep it simple: for RM20, guests get 90 minutes to enjoy as many records as they like, one at a time. After getting a ticket, they can add a drink or a snack, scan a quick how-to guide, and head to a two- or four-seater table.
Many of the café's customers are from a younger demography who are returning to all things retro. (Andrea Edmonds @ FMT Lifestyle)
'Music is even better when it's shared,' said Bert. 'We set it up so you can enjoy it with someone you love … your partner, your best friend, your sibling. It's not just about being alone with the music. It's also about connecting.'
Since opening in mid-July, the café has struck a chord with music lovers – and the café is packed over the weekend. 'When someone tells us, 'This is my new favourite spot,' or, 'I could stay here all day,' it really affirms what we set out to do,' said Bert. 'We just want people to enjoy being here.'
Ultimately, for both Jay and Bert, Eternyl Vinyl Café isn't just a niche space for audiophiles – it's an invitation for everyone to rediscover the joy of listening. It reflects their belief that music is timeless and the experience of truly listening should be too.
'It's a completely different experience, not just for music lovers, but for anyone who wants to know what true music feels like,' Bert concluded.
Follow 'Eternyl Vinyl Café' on Instagram.
Eternyl Vinyl Café
7-1, Jalan 21/11B
Sea Park
46300 Petaling Jaya
Business hours: 2pm-10pm (Closed on Monday)
Contact: 03-2694 1968
For location, click here.
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