Kozue
Kozue is a Japan-born, Vancouver-based DJ known for uplifting, genre-blending sets rooted in house, deep house, techno, disco and soulful grooves. Active in the West Coast scene through clubs, festivals and radio, she's recognised for her eclectic selections.
For her IRL guide to Vancouver, Kozue maps the spots she takes visiting DJs and music-loving friends, where to dig for records, hunt down gear, and hear a proper sound system. From a '90s crate-digging staple on West Hastings to a hi-fi wine bar where she sometimes plays herself.
Beat Street Records
Vancouver record store since the '90s. I usually check the new arrivals near the entrance, the dance section on the right, then disco, soul, and funk in the back left, and finally the 7-inch section at the very back.
Kozue
Dandelion Records
A cozy apartment-style record shop open Thursday–Sunday. They curate jazz, dub, electronic, disco, funk, soul, and more, always introducing records that somehow hit exactly the right spot.
Kozue
Nightlife Electronics
For electronic music gear, Nightlife Electronics is the spot. They carry synthesizers, drum machines, modular synthesizers, from vintage classics to new gear I've never seen before.
Kozue
Bar Gobo
A hi-fi wine bar with an incredible sound system. I sometimes play records here as well. Their Asian x French fusion dishes make it one of my favorite dinner spots.
Kozue