It can't be easy running a music store in an era of digital music and free downloads. They key is probably to have a shop that makes people WANT to come by, check things out, spend some time, and yes.. buy some music.

Concerto, one of Amsterdam's most beloved music shops, does just that. Situated on the Utrechtsestraat, between some of the loveliest canals, it is all to wall music for any taste.

Myself I like heading right into the world music section, to check what latest releases they have from the world of Portuguese language music. I usually grab a few, along with the usual new releases in Indyrock, and head to the listening station. Remember those things? Yes, before the era of the internets.. listening stations were the coolest, as you can stand there forever, read the lyrics, and decide to buy or not buy the cd you've been listening to. Simple old fashioned concept that still brings alot of people some joy at concerto.

It may be a dying art. I admit I don't make it there very often myself. However, if you want to experience a music store will all the eclectic tastes of a city like Amsterdam, you should stop in Concerto and try it yourself.

ps - Yes of course they have LP's!