For Sale: A Downtown Fixture

The infamous Cafe Soundz in Montclair will be closing on Labor Day 2011—unless someone steps up to buy the store.

According to a press release sent out by the establishment, "Cafe Soundz is not going out of business! After 22 years, [owner] Bobby [Lisi] is retiring and moving with his family to follow their dream of opening an artist's retreat in Costa Rica." 

Soundz, at 320 Bloomfield Avenue, has been a successful business from day one, serving a niche crowd and remaining in the black for its entire run.

"We are the only shop of our kind," Lisi said. "We're more of a subculture clothing, footwear and music shop dealing exclusively in underground clothing labels as well as underground electronic dance music of all styles."

Over the years, the store has evolved into more than just a record shop, becoming a gathering spot for music fans and neighbors.

"I love people. I love to talk," said Lisi. "People filter in and out all day, some to shop, some just to say hi. They keep me up to date on their lives."

Founded on September 4, 1989, Cafe Soundz has served two generations of customers.

"If no one buys the store I'll just blow out of all my merchandise online. I would actually make more money if I did it that way, but I feel bad for my loyal customers so I am offering to sell the business to the right person at a reduced price.," Lisi said. "Soundz is more than just a record shop and it is my hope that someone will step up to keep it going. If not it will be your loss, not mine."

The accomanying video is an interview with Lisi that will shed more light on his plight to find a buyer for the store.