SINGAPORE – Music, like art, is about expression. It’s about holding a belief so strongly that we can create something out of nothing that allows us to connect and relate to each other.
 
Cubao XSet against the backdrop of an increasingly modern commercial district, Cubao Expo may look a bit out of sorts. Its vintage mom n’ pop feel is a stark contrast to the sleek malls and condominiums rising around it. But while Cubao Expo may look like a throwback to a simpler time, the performances and shows held there are unquestionably bleeding edge.  
Anywhere in HongdaeIn Hongdae the indie scene is anywhere you want it to be. Hanging out, making music, relaxing, partying all blend into one state of creative being that is happening everywhere. From the bathroom to the rooftop; it’s not about where you are it’s about what you make it. 
Zero to Indie HeroFor Patrick Chng – the founder and frontman of The Oddfellows, a Singapore-based band widely revered as the music pioneer who revived mainstream interest in local original music in the late 80’s and inspired different waves of bands in the last 20 years; it’s about the “heart” more than the technique. |
IT CAME FROM THE ‘60SSINGAPORE – Despite the power of modern day fashion statements, there are still bands that are obsessed with the heydays of rock ‘n’ roll, the 1960s. Singapore indie bands like The Pinholes and Love Jets fashion themselves after the vintage style of the ‘60s, both in their look and their sound. Just what is it the about the ‘60s that influenced and inspired them so much? 
Don’t Underestimate The Diet PillsThere are so many images associated with Thailand and Bangkok, but most of the time the mainstream media only portrays our country from a traditional, high culture point of view. Surely, we’re proud of our heritage, but that is not all there is to our multi faceted culture. Thai indie music has survived a lot of turmoil over the past ten years but it is still kicking. New music and bands keep it alive and continue to contribute to this exciting and ever fresh part of Thai culture. 
Small Venues Rock Out Huge!“A friend once told me this: ‘The difference between a good and a lousy band is the ability to adapt to the situation and make something out of it’,” explains Gerald. In a small, confined place, there’s no “third wall” . |
RECLAIMING THE DANCEFLOORIt wasn’t until relatively recently that one could find the rather high-minded punk-bred indie rockers of Manila busting out their dance moves. 
Asia IndependentSome of Asia’s most exciting independent bands tell us about the indie scenes in the cities they call home. 
Hanging out in HongdaeWe danced, we watched, and we made art out of the mess. This is Hongdae, where the people make this scene special. |
