Michael Burton, a slam poet, and Dann Gaymer, a techno beat producer, discuss their unique music project that combines slam poetry with techno beats. They talk about their experiences as expats in China and the challenges of pursuing creative endeavors while working full-time. They also share their travels and offer advice to those considering living and working overseas. The episode explores how the choices made prior to the pandemic influenced their projects and reveals the creative work that can thrive despite global challenges.
New Age of Decay is a music project combining slam poetry and experimental rock, born out of the experiences of living in China.
Living as an expat in China while pursuing creative endeavors can be challenging yet rewarding.
The music scene in Beijing and China offers opportunities for experimentation and unique projects, despite the dominance of certain genres.
The podcast provides insights into the experiences and perspectives of foreign artists living and creating in China.
Deep dives
The Creation of New Age of Decay: A Blend of Poetry and Experimental Rock
New Age of Decay is a music project formed by Michael Burton and Dan Gamer, also known as Not Another Poet and The Slow Blade. The duo combines elements of slam poetry and experimental rock to create their unique sound. The project was born out of their experiences living in China and explores topics such as creativity, living in China, and the challenges of being a musician abroad. They released their self-titled album, which features lyrics that are thought-provoking and poetic. The music draws influences from Manchester bands and the No Beijing movement, creating a dark and introspective atmosphere. While the music and poetry stand independently, they come together in a captivating live show that is both raw and energetic.
Reflecting on Life in China and Transitioning Back to the UK
Michael, who recently left China after living there for over seven years, shares his experience of transitioning back to the UK. He talks about the adjustments he has been making and the stark contrast between the two countries. While he misses the vibrancy and the creative scene in China, he is also enjoying the quieter and more peaceful life in the UK. He reflects on the changes he has seen in China over the years and discusses the challenges of being a creative type in the country. Despite these challenges, Michael highlights the opportunities and experiences that living in China has provided, both personally and creatively.
The Music Scene in Beijing and China
The music scene in Beijing and China has evolved over the years, with different trends and influences shaping the industry. While genres like hip-hop, trap, and EDM dominate the current scene, there have been bands and musicians who have drawn inspiration from Manchester bands and the No Beijing movement. The music industry in China has grown, with more opportunities and platforms for musicians. However, commercial success often comes with the need to conform to certain standards and trends. Despite this, there is still room for experimentation and unique projects like New Age of Decay to find their own place and audience within the music scene.
The Viability of Living and Traveling as a Musician in China
Living and traveling as a musician in China can offer unique opportunities, but it also comes with its challenges. Both Dan and Michael share their perspectives on this topic. Dan, who has toured extensively in China, highlights the possibilities of traveling and playing shows in the country. He mentions the ease of networking and finding gigs, especially with the help of digital platforms like WeChat. However, Dan cautions about the uncertainty brought by the COVID-19 pandemic, making it difficult to guarantee such experiences in the current climate. Michael emphasizes the importance of regular practice and performance in honing one's craft. While the current situation may prevent certain opportunities, the value of experience and growth as a musician remains at the core of pursuing a career in music.
Inspiring Creativity and Living Abroad
The podcast episode features a conversation with Michael Burton and Dan Gamer, members of the musical duo New Age of Decay. They discuss their experiences of living and working in China as musicians and educators. The episode explores their creative process, the challenges they face as foreign artists, and the impact of moving to a different country on their artistic growth. They also touch on their album, showcasing specific songs like 'Native Speaker' and 'The Year That When It All Collapsed'. The artwork for the album was done by South Korean artist Joy Zhang. The duo also talks about their future plans, including the possibility of leaving China and pursuing further education. Overall, the podcast offers insights into the unique experiences and perspectives of foreign artists living and creating in a different culture.
The Influence of China on Creativity and Art
In this podcast episode, Michael Burton and Dan Gamer, members of the band New Age of Decay, discuss the influence of China on their creativity and artistry. They share personal anecdotes and reflections on how living and working in China has shaped their creative process. The duo explores the challenges and opportunities of being foreign artists in China, from the music scene to the visual arts. They also delve into their album and specific songs, highlighting their favorites such as 'The Year That When It All Collapsed' and 'Native Speaker'. The episode delves into the importance of collaboration and building connections in the local arts scene. Overall, the conversation provides an insightful look into the artistic journey of foreign artists in a new cultural environment.
Living and Creating in China: Journey and Insights
Join Michael Burton and Dan Gamer, members of the band New Age of Decay, in this podcast episode as they share their journey and insights on living and creating in China. The duo reflects on their experiences as musicians and educators, discussing topics such as the local music scene, the challenges of being foreign artists, and the cultural influences they have encountered. They also touch on their album, highlighting standout tracks such as 'The Year That When It All Collapsed'. The episode explores the importance of connection and creativity, offering a glimpse into the unique experiences of foreign artists in China. Stay tuned for future plans and aspirations as they contemplate potential future adventures beyond China.
Exploring Creativity and Life in China
In this podcast episode, Michael Burton and Dan Gamer, members of the band New Age of Decay, discuss their creativity and life as artists in China. They share their personal journeys and insights on how China has influenced their creative process and artistic growth. The duo touches on topics such as the local music scene, collaborating with other artists, and the challenges and joys of living abroad. They also delve into their album, highlighting key tracks like 'The Year That When It All Collapsed' and 'Native Speaker'. This episode provides a unique perspective on the impact of Chinese culture and the vibrant music scene on foreign artists, offering an engaging discussion on the intersection of life, creativity, and music in a different country.
This episode has another band joining me, The New Age of Decay. The band / project is made up of Michael Burton, aka NotAnotherPoet, and Dann Gaymer, aka The Slow Blade. They join me online as Michael has recently returned to the UK while Dann and I are still in Beijing.
The band is a collaboration between the two who met through literary circles here in Beijing. Combining the slam poetry of Michael Burton with the techno, sample-influenced beats of Dann Gaymer, the project stands as a testament to the creative work that can emerge despite a global pandemic. Whether this project remains a one off or is to be continued, either online or in person, remains to be seen.
In this episode we talk what life is like being an expat in China and what it’s like to hold down full time jobs while pursuing one’s creative endeavours. While Michael uses the pen and paper method, Dann takes to the road on an often gruelling touring schedule. In this episode you’ll also hear just how close things were to not happening as the choices that everyone made prior to the full-on pandemic influenced what they were able, and not able, to do in the last year and a half.
You’ll also hear about some of the other travels the two have done prior to landing in China, and what sort of advice they’d give to people who are thinking of living and working overseas and how having a passion project can be a good outlet, and connection, with your surroundings.
To find The New Age of Decay’s album and links to their other projects, visit https://daftpop.bandcamp.com/album/new-age-of-decay, or head over to YouTube to see their music video for their song, “Quarantine”.
