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Band Timeline

2005

Formation of Hedgehog, Chinese Indie Rock Trio

Hedgehog was formed in 2005 by partners ZO (Zhao Zijian) and Atom (Shi Lu) in China. This indie rock trio quickly became known for their energetic live performances and catchy songwriting. Their music style was influenced by iconic bands such as The Jesus and Mary Chain, The Ramones, and Nirvana. Atom, the drummer, is notable for her small, cute appearance combined with an aggressive drumming style, drawing inspiration from Astroboy. Hedgehog's songs are sung in both Mandarin Chinese and English, primarily led by ZO with Atom occasionally taking lead vocals.
2006

Release of Debut Album 'Happy Idle Kid'

Hedgehog released their debut album 'Happy Idle Kid' in 2006, marking their official entry into the recorded music scene. The album showcased their indie rock style and began to establish their reputation across China. This release set the foundation for their growing popularity in the domestic indie scene and would be followed by continuous musical development and experimentation in their subsequent works.
2007

Follow-up Album 'Noise Hit World' Released

In 2007, Hedgehog released their second album, 'Noise Hit World.' This album continued to build their musical identity and solidify their place in the Chinese indie rock landscape. Their sound demonstrated greater confidence and experimentation, further engaging their fanbase and gaining attention from music critics and entertainment media in China.
2009

Release of 'Blue Day Dreaming' and Formation of Side Project 'B-Side Lovers'

The year 2009 was significant as Hedgehog released 'Blue Day Dreaming,' continuing to expand their discography. Additionally, ZO and Atom started a side project named B-Side Lovers, a two-piece venture focusing on a more experimental and edgy sound that emphasized songwriting and instrumental experimentation. This side project allowed the members to explore different creative avenues while maintaining activity within Hedgehog itself.
2010

Notable Performances Including CMJ Festival in New York

In October 2010, Hedgehog performed at the CMJ Festival in New York City, marking an important step in their international exposure. Participation in this well-known music festival provided the band with a platform to reach a broader audience outside of China, enhancing their reputation as a vibrant indie rock band capable of notable live performances on an international stage.
2011

US Tour with Xiu Xiu and Multiple Releases

2011 was a prolific year for Hedgehog. They toured the United States alongside the experimental band Xiu Xiu, increasing their international presence. Around this time, they recorded 'Sun Fun Gun' in New York City, produced by John Grew and Russell Simins from the Jon Spencer Blues Explosion. Hedgehog also released several albums in 2011, including 'Honeyed and Killed,' 'DEstroy meMOries,' and a bootleg album 'Still Alive.' This year marked a peak in their activity and showcased their prolific nature and willingness to experiment with different sounds and production contexts.
2012

Release of 'Sun Fun Gun', Continued Evolution in Sound

The album 'Sun Fun Gun' released in 2012 was a notable work recorded in New York City with prominent producers, illustrating the band's growth and exposure to new influences through international collaboration. This album further diversified their sound and helped cement their status not only in China but also among indie rock circles internationally, expanding their fan base.
2014

Release of 'Phantom Pop Star' Album

In 2014, Hedgehog released the album 'Phantom Pop Star,' continuing their trend of releasing creative and musically diverse works. This album further established their distinctive style characterized by energetic performances and a blend of Mandarin and English lyrics, maintaining their relevance and appeal in the evolving indie rock scene.
2015

Release of 'Neurons' Album

The release of 'Neurons' in 2015 added to Hedgehog's rich discography and displayed their continued commitment to producing quality indie rock music. Their work continued to reflect both the influences of Western rock bands and their unique perspective as Chinese musicians, solidifying their reputation across both national and international stages.
2018

Release of 'Sound of life towards' Album

By 2018, Hedgehog had firmly established themselves in the indie music scene with the release of 'Sound of life towards.' The album further reflected their evolution as artists and their willingness to experiment with sound while maintaining their core indie rock essence. Their growing musical maturity and experience were evident in this release.
2020

Release of 'A Newborn White Immortal' Album

In 2020, Hedgehog released 'A Newborn White Immortal,' continuing their prolific output and exploration of new musical territories. This period saw the band maintaining their relevance and artistic vitality despite the global challenges faced by many, including those in the music industry. Their ability to adapt and keep producing work attested to their lasting presence in indie rock.
2022

Latest Album 'Crow Valley - It's All Connected' Released

Their most recent album as of 2022, 'Crow Valley - It's All Connected,' represents the continued creative journey of Hedgehog. This release showcases the band's consistency and dedication to their craft over many years in the music scene. The album reflects their experience, varied influences, and the seamless integration of their bilingual lyric approach, carrying forward their legacy in Chinese indie rock.
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Story of Hedgehog

Hedgehog: A Sonic Spike Through China's Indie Scene

Hedgehog, the Beijing-based trio formed in 2005 by ZO (Zhao Zijian) and Atom (Shi Lu), has become a cornerstone of China's indie rock scene. Known for their infectious songwriting and electrifying live performances, they've earned a reputation as a must-see act across the country.

Their sound is a potent blend of influences, drawing from the raw energy of The Ramones, the melodic hooks of The Jesus and Mary Chain, and the grunge grit of Nirvana. This potent cocktail has landed them features in City Weekend's "The Beijing Bands You Should Already Know About" and "The Hottest Bands of 2011", solidifying their status as a major player in the Chinese music landscape.

A key element of Hedgehog's energy is Atom, whose small stature belies a ferocious drumming style. Her moniker, a nod to Astroboy, embodies her surprising power and energy. While ZO primarily handles lead vocals in both Mandarin Chinese and English, Atom also occasionally takes the mic, adding another layer of dynamism to the band's sound.

In 2011, Hedgehog took their sound stateside, embarking on a US tour alongside Xiu Xiu. This tour culminated in the recording of "[Sun Fun Gun]" in New York City, produced by Jon Spencer Blues Explosion's John Grew and Russell Simins.

Beyond their main act, ZO and Atom also have a side project, B-Side Lovers, which they formed in 2009. This two-piece venture allows them to explore a more experimental edge, focusing on raw songwriting and instrumental innovation.

Hedgehog, with its unique sound and explosive live shows, continues to push boundaries and pave the way for a vibrant indie rock movement in China. Their music, a sonic blend of influences and infectious energy, is a powerful force that transcends language barriers and captures the hearts of audiences both in China and beyond.

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