PARIS, April 16 -- Not quite like a gig or going clubbing, but there's a new night out spreading in cities around the world: an evening at a "listening bar".

An increasing number of venues are adopting the concept, which originated in Japan, of installing high-end sound systems good enough to impress the most demanding audio geek.

Some offer a social experience over drinks, with the music playing in the background, while others sell admission to "active listening" sessions where the songs - and the speakers - are the focus of hushed attention.

"It really makes you listen to every word, every instrument, every note," Camille Calloch, 31, told AFP as she left a listening session dedicated to British neo-soul star Sampha at "Listener" bar...