ChinaTalk
China's Best Music of 2024
Episode guests
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
- The podcast highlights the vibrant evolution of the Chinese music scene, showcasing innovative tracks that blend diverse influences and genres.
- Jake Newby's selections emphasize the significance of emerging artists and collaborations in redefining contemporary music in China.
Deep dives
Emerging Sounds from the Beijing Scene
A new four-track EP titled 'Cliche' by the Beijing-based band Sleeping Dogs marks a significant return for the group, showcasing their distinctive sound in the current Chinese music landscape. The EP celebrates the 10th anniversary of the Guru Guru Brain label, which has become known for promoting innovative music. Another noteworthy release comes from the Sepp label, which recently revived its operations to produce a beautiful ambient compilation featuring experimental tracks like 'Never Broken, Never Healed' by Sean Ga, a collaboration between Brad Seppel and Yuhain. These efforts highlight the vibrancy and creativity of contemporary Chinese music, with diverse influences reflecting a growing scene of experimental sounds.
Revived Legends and New Directions
The legendary band Cars It Cars has made a comeback with their original lineup, releasing their latest album 'Aha', which reflects on their journey and experiences over the years. The opening track, 'Farewell', offers a poignant look back, suggesting a bittersweet farewell while simultaneously re-energizing the band’s presence in the music scene. Similar sentiments are echoed in the album's livelier tracks, which meld nostalgia with an upbeat tempo, illustrating the band's evolution. The excitement surrounding their return complements the ongoing transformations within the broader Chinese indie rock landscape.
Innovative Fusion in Global Contexts
Artists like Vojian Shi and Harry Lee are pushing boundaries within the Chinese music scene by seamlessly merging genres and influences. Vojian Shi's latest album emphasizes her prowess in jazz, while incorporating elements of instrumental hip-hop, ambient music, and spoken word, showcasing her versatility as an artist. On the other hand, Harry Lee's unique project, recorded at a Tibetan monastery, combines traditional Tibetan Buddhist singing with modern rhythms and sampling techniques, creating a fresh sound. Such innovative approaches exemplify the richness and diversity of music coming out of China, inviting listeners to experience the interplay of cultural elements.
Jake Newby is the author of Concrete Avalanche, a free newsletter about music from China. You might remember Jake from the Chinese shoegaze election playlist, or from the tracklist he presented on ChinaTalk back in June. Now that the year is over, Jake is here to introduce his picks for the overall most interesting songs to come out of China in 2024.
This tracklist includes everything from Afrobeat-influenced Beijing funk endorsed by Gilles Peterson, to an electronic track crafted in a Tibetan monastery featuring Buddhist chanting. You can find links to listen to each track individually on the ChinaTalk substack. Enjoy!
1. Golden Seeds 黄金种子 by Sleeping Dogs
2. Never Broken, Never Healed by Seon Ga 信鴿
3. Aroma Compound by ayrtbh
4. Stage Riot 舞台 by Carsick Cars
5. Hereditary Nightmare 遗 传 噩 梦 by The Swan and Blossoms 天鹅与花朵
6. Kagi 鍵 by Voision Xi
7. 物件 (Object) by Mdprl & Git Bu$y Trio
8. Night Patrol by Fazi 法兹
9. Mantra Of Buddha Akshobhya 不 动 佛 心 咒 by Howie Lee
10. Ghostbomb by Ghostmass 大鬼众
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