When you say the letters “C&D” to any member of Cincinnati’s hip, bar-going, Shake-It-haunting scene, most people will nod their heads in recognition, knowingly acknowledging the “Complete Dive” on the corner of Hanfield and Witler, a block down from Chase. Now append the words “Record Bar” at the end of “C&D” and quite a few of those nods of familiarity will turn to blank stares. —-
Yes, indeed, the C&D Record Bar. Unlike its nominal Northside counterpart, the C&D Record Bar is neither a bar nor is it even part of Cincinnati proper. It’s an old 45 shack at 908 Monmouth St. in Newport. The long standing storefront, which was named a “record bar” back in the day when a record store was called a record bar (at least in Kentucky), has been shilling little pieces of jukebox-friendly vinyl for upwards of 50 years. C&D houses tens of thousands of those hearty double-sided singles — tons of ancient top-40, Oldies, Rock and Country 45s sit among the store’s jam-packed racks — and is a virtual treasure trove for all lovers of seven-inches of all styles and eras.
I challenge any music aficionado with a turntable to visit and not find something he or she likes. The prices are reasonable. The staff and regulars are friendly. And most importantly, the selection will keep you engrossed for hours. Stop in on a hot Friday afternoon this summer, bring a beer and have a look around. (Call 859-261-1131 for more information.)
