The VideoLAN Forums

Downloaded and installed VLC2.2.1 64 bit today. It will not play .cda files.

.CDA are not files per se but some kind of "link" parameters to the data on the disc.
Use the menu Media -> Open Disc then select Audio CD and the correct drive letter, then click on the Play button and it should play your CD.

Thank you Lotesdelere. That works. Much appreciated.