Time for Rock...
Time for Rock...
Founded in: 2012
EggPlantEgg (English: EggPlantEgg) is a Taiwanese indie rock band formed in Taipei in 2012. The band consists of vocalist and keyboardist Ah-Bin, guitarist Ah-De, and guitarist Ah-Ren. Their musical style encompasses classic rock, blues, and fusion, interwoven with street karaoke and popular music styles. In 2017, they released their first album, "Cartoon Characters". In 2018, they won the Best Hokkien Album Award and Best New Artist Award at the 29th Golden Melody Awards. In 2019, they were nominated for the Song of the Year Award at the 30th Golden Melody Awards with "Drifting". In May 2020, the music video for their single "浪子回頭" (The Prodigal Son Returns) reached 100 million views on their official YouTube channel. In December 2021, the music video for their single "Drifting" reached 100 million views on their official YouTube channel. In 2022, they won the Song of the Year Award at the 33rd Golden Melody Awards with the film theme song "Love Is Greater Than You Think". In September of the same year, they announced a hiatus due to the lead singer's vocal damage.
Like other indie bands in Taiwan that are actively expanding their musical landscape, EggPlantEgg also chose not to join a major record label and instead formed their own company, "EggPlantEgg Co., Ltd.", to handle all of the band's affairs. The company currently employs band members and a manager, and other businesses such as media relations, design, and technical engineering are handled through collaborations.
== Band Name == The band name "EggPlantEgg" comes from the fact that the band members all happen to love eggplants, and eggplants are something that people either love or hate, similar to their music which doesn't satisfy everyone. Lead vocalist Huang Qi-Bin said: "I like to eat eggplant, but you know, eggplant is something that people either love or hate, and that's the same with our music, some people like it, some people hate it, that's normal! So we chose a plant that's a little less mainstream, because eggplant is 'eggplant' in English, so I thought I'd add an 'egg' to make it 'EggPlantEgg', so it's visually symmetrical and has a distinct 'masculine symbol', representing the interesting, masculine image that EggPlantEgg gives to the audience through their music."
== Members == Formed in 2012, the original five members of EggPlantEgg were all graduates of Songshan High School. After member changes, only Huang Qi-Bin remains in the band.
Founded in: 2005
Dong Cheng Wei is a Taiwanese rock band consisting of Jie (lead vocalist), Xiu (leader and guitarist), Deng (bassist), and Ming (drummer). Under the K'o Mi Group and Warner Music, Dong Cheng Wei has released two physical albums, two revised physical albums, one physical television soundtrack, and one digital album. They have also participated in many well-known drama theme songs, theme songs, and drama soundtrack creations. In May 2014, they officially disbanded. In September 2014, guitarist Xiu and lead vocalist Jie formed a new rock band called Red Generation in the same month.
== History == Comprehensive In 1998, leader and guitarist Xiu and bassist Deng, as high school freshmen, formed the first generation of "Eclipse." In 1999, "Eclipse" performed their maiden show in front of 3000 people at the high school’s second-year anniversary celebration. In 2000, after high school classes were reassigned, Wang Dong Cheng and Xiu, Deng were in the same class. Dong also took the initiative to talk to Xiu and Deng about some band concepts. In 2006, Dong Cheng Wei's rhythm guitarist, Qiu, quit due to differences in opinions. Band leader Xiu invited his brother Jie to be the rhythm guitarist. On June 1, 2010, Dong Cheng Wei officially joined Warner Music.
Drama In late November 2005, the band assisted with a cameo role in "The Ultimate Class" and adapted the theme song. On August 8, 2007, the band performed in "The Ultimate Family."
Founded in: 2004
Cosmos People (English: Cosmos People) is a Taiwanese band consisting of three members: Xiaoyu (lead vocalist and keyboardist), A Kui (guitarist), and Fang Q (bassist). They formed in September 2004 at the Player Rehearsal Studio in ShiDa, Taipei. All members are graduates of Jian Guo High School. The following year, they participated in the Kenting Spring Scream Music Festival, which marked the beginning of their frequent performances. They are known for their unique funk dance music that creates a lively atmosphere.
== Introduction ==
=== Band Name Origin === During the summer of 2004, coinciding with the Athens Olympics, Cosmos People's lead vocalist Xiaoyu and a close friend, Li Yu Xin, who loved street dance, traveled to Japan to attend a street dance competition. On the television in their hotel room, they watched the final of the men's hurdles event at the Olympics. One athlete captivated their attention: Félix Sánchez from the Dominican Republic. Before the race, Sánchez lit up his dazzling LED bracelet and danced his self-created moves, completely immersed in his own "cosmos." He ultimately won the gold medal in the event. This awe-inspiring performance inspired a remarkable description from Xiaoyu and his friend: "This guy is so cosmic!" They then started imitating the athlete's unusual dance moves.
A few months later, Xiaoyu and his high school friend, guitarist A Kui, formed a band focused on dance music and began composing songs. They started participating in various performances. When they needed a band name to register for a performance, they said, "Let's just call ourselves Cosmos People." And so, Cosmos People was born.
== Members ==
=== Former Members === Drummer: Lee Dong You (born September 5, 1985), currently the drummer of 88 Ke Ba Le Zi (88 Guavas) Bassist: Fan Zhong Yu Bassist: Chen Wei Da (A Da) (born December 13, 1985) Drummer: Lin Yu An Drummer: Wei Hong Bo (Wei Pang) (born August 4, 1987)
== History ==
=== 2004–2009: Formation and Debut === Cosmos People was formed during the summer of 2004 by Xiaoyu, the keyboardist, and A Kui, the guitarist, both graduates of Jian Guo High School. They became acquainted in high school and shared a common passion for street dance, which sparked their interest in dance music. They started exploring black funk music. After graduating high school, they formed a band to compose music. Initially, they used Xiaoyu's beatboxing vocals and A Kui's funk guitar to create music. Later, they incorporated instruments like keyboards, drums, and bass. Their current bassist, Fang Q, is a senior from A Kui's high school popular music club.
Founded in: 2013
KST, is a Taiwanese rock band formed in 2013. The band's name is inspired by a famous quote from the Greek philosopher Heraclitus:
"Change is the only constant in life."
This philosophical concept aligns with the Buddhist notion of impermanence, reflecting the band's perspective on life and their musical journey.
KST's music is characterized by a unique fusion of several rock subgenres:
Post-rock
Emo rock
Hardcore rock
Their distinctive sound is crafted through:
1. Complex drum patterns
2. Wall of sound created by guitars and bass
3. Incorporation of synthesizers
4. Visual elements (VJ performances)
A notable feature of KST is that all band members contribute vocals, adding depth and variety to their performances.
KST's lyrics often focus on:
Portraying realistic life situations
Exploring the complexities of modern existence
Addressing societal issues
This approach has resonated strongly with their audience, leading fans to label them as one of the representative "pessimistic bands" in the Taiwanese music scene. Their ability to capture the struggles and emotions of everyday life has garnered them a dedicated following.
KST is known for their immersive live shows, which combine:
Intense musical performances
Visual projections
Interactive elements
These multi-sensory experiences have become a hallmark of their concerts, further enhancing their connection with fans.
Since their formation, KST has:
Contributed to the evolution of Taiwan's alternative rock scene
Inspired a new generation of musicians to explore unconventional sounds and themes
Gained recognition both domestically and internationally for their unique approach to rock music
Founded in: 2017
Your Woman Sleep With Others (Traditional Chinese: 老王樂隊, Lǎowáng yuèduì), also known as "Old Wang Band," is a Taiwanese folk rock band that emerged from the vibrant Taipei music scene in 2015. The five-piece lineup features Zhang Lichang (lead vocals), Tong Weishuo (guitar), Liao Jiemin (drums), Feng Huiyuan (bass), and Shao Jiaying (cello), who together weave a tapestry of raw emotion and sharp social commentary.
The band`s name, a provocative twist on the Chinese slang "Old Wang," which refers to a husband whose wife is unfaithful, perfectly encapsulates their rebellious spirit. Lead singer Zhang Lichang explains that the name embodies their cynical yet insightful critique of the Taiwanese education system and the often-uninspiring nature of the music industry.
Their 2016 debut EP, Stolen Childhood (吾十有五而志於學), became a critical and commercial success, earning them recognition for their unflinching portrayal of the flaws in the Taiwanese educational system. The album`s standout track, "Cram Schools Killed the Children," won the coveted Best Folk Single award at the Golden Indie Awards in 2018, solidifying their position as a leading voice in Taiwanese rock.
Their journey began in late 2015 when founders Zhang Lichang, Feng Huiyuan, and Tong Weishuo united to compete in a college music competition. This sparked a whirlwind of success, with the band winning first place at Tamkang University and National Chengchi University in 2016 for their anthemic track "Stable Life, Suffer Exams." This victory, aptly christened the "Double Gold Champion" (金韶金旋雙冠), propelled them into the national limelight and cemented their status as a band to watch.
Your Woman Sleep With Others are more than just a band; they are a cultural phenomenon, challenging conventions and sparking important conversations about education, societal expectations, and the power of music to ignite change.
Founded in: 2017
Accusefive (告五人; Gàowǔrén), a Taiwanese rock band, burst onto the scene in 2017 with a sound that’s both fresh and nostalgic. The band, hailing from Yilan County, is comprised of lead vocalist and guitarist Pan Yun-an, vocalist Tsai Hsin-lun (Chuan Ching), and drummer Richard Lin.
Their story is as unique as their music. Pan and Tsai, who are also a couple, met at National Yilan Senior High School and formed the band alongside Lin. Their name, "Accusefive," is a quirky twist of fate. Each member randomly selected a character from a bulletin board, resulting in the now-iconic name that has no deeper meaning.
The band’s musical journey began with the release of their debut mini-album, Son of Mist, in October 2017, which quickly garnered attention and earned them the coveted "Best New Artist" award at the 9th Golden Indie Music Awards. Their following releases, Somewhere in Time, I Love You (2019) and Easy Come, Easy Go (2020), solidified their rising star status, earning nominations for prestigious awards like the Golden Melody Awards.
In 2023, Accusefive took their talents to the national stage, joining the cast of Dragon TV’s popular singing variety show, Singing with Legends (第五季), further solidifying their position as one of Taiwan’s most exciting and promising rock bands. With their blend of captivating melodies, heartfelt lyrics, and raw talent, Accusefive is a force to be reckoned with in the world of contemporary music.
Founded in: 2012
Elephant Gym, a name that instantly conjures images of heavy riffs and intricate rhythms, is a math rock trio hailing from Kaohsiung, Taiwan. Founded in February 2012 by siblings KT (bass) and Tell (guitar) Chang, alongside drummer Chia-Chin Tu, this band isn't your average rock outfit. The name itself is a powerful statement, with "elephant" symbolizing their bass-driven, monstrous sound and "gym" referencing their agility and unpredictable rhythmic prowess.
From Classical Roots to Math Rock Masters:
Each member brings a unique background to the group. KT and Tell were classically trained by their mother, while Chia-Chin honed his skills in classical percussion. This diverse musical upbringing formed the foundation for Elephant Gym's unique sound. After meeting at a high school music club, the trio wasted no time in forging their own musical path. They self-produced a limited-edition EP and toured Taiwan on their single "Ordinary Route", which later found its place on their debut album.
Early Success and Hiatus:
In May 2013, their first official EP, "Balance", dropped, featuring the standout track "Ocean in the Night" produced alongside Hong-shen Hong, the frontman of the acclaimed indie band Touming Magazine. The band continued to gain momentum, collaborating with pop singer Yoga Lin on the song "Speaking in Tongues", performing with him in Hong Kong and at Taipei Arena. Their debut album, "Angle", followed in June 2014, showcasing their signature sound through collaborations with artists like Panai Kusui and Enno Cheng. However, in December 2014, a year-long hiatus was announced due to Taiwanese compulsory military service. Their farewell performance, "See You Then", served as a poignant send-off, accompanied by a touching short documentary of the same name.
A Return to the Stage and Beyond:
In August 2016, Elephant Gym returned with a vengeance, releasing "Angle" in Japan and being invited to perform at the prestigious Summer Sonic Festival. Their post-hiatus period marked a new era, with the band continuing to push boundaries and captivate audiences worldwide with their electrifying live performances and innovative musical explorations.
Elephant Gym's story is a testament to passion, talent, and the enduring power of music. Their commitment to their craft and their captivating live shows have cemented their status as one of the leading forces in the global math rock scene. As they continue to evolve, Elephant Gym's legacy is poised to inspire generations of musicians and fans alike.
Founded in: 2001
Sodagreen, a name synonymous with the rise of Taiwanese indie rock, emerged from the vibrant underground scene in 2001. Their lineup, a constant since 2003, has captivated audiences with a unique blend of ethereal melodies and introspective lyrics.
The band's journey began with a resounding victory at the Hohaiyan Gongliau Rock Festival in 2004, where they snagged the coveted Grand Jury Award. This recognition propelled them into the spotlight, leading to a contract with the influential label Willlin Music.
Sodagreen's impact wasn't limited to the indie scene. They broke barriers as the first independent band to perform at the prestigious Taipei Arena, showcasing their widespread appeal and undeniable talent.
Their name, a whimsical fusion of "Soda" and "Green", reflects the band's core philosophy – a refreshing take on music, tinged with the vibrant hue of creativity.
Their early success traces back to the 2001 Golden Melody Cup, where they won the Best Popularity award for their composition "Peeping." This marked the beginning of their ascent, culminating in a triumphant return to the competition in 2002, where they dominated with awards for Best Band, Best Composition, Best Lyrics, and Best Music.
While the band has since embraced a new identity as "魚丁糸" (Oaeen), their legacy as Sodagreen remains etched in the history of Taiwanese music. They are a testament to the enduring power of indie spirit, a band that redefined the landscape and paved the way for countless artists to follow in their footsteps.
Founded in: 1997
Mayday, also known as 五月天 (Wǔ Yuè Tiān) in Mandarin, is a Taiwanese rock band that has stormed the music scene since their formation in 1997. The quintet, comprised of Monster (lead guitar and leader), Ashin (vocals), Stone (rhythm guitar), Masa (bass) and Ming (drums), ignited their musical journey with their debut album in 1999.
Initially known as So Band, their name evolved in 1997, stemming from Masa's online alias. Their impact has been so profound that they've earned the moniker "the Beatles of the Chinese-speaking world." Their accomplishments are a testament to their immense talent and influence, with a multitude of awards including the prestigious Golden Melody Award for Best Band, bestowed by the Taiwanese Ministry of Culture, an impressive four times - in 2001, 2004, 2009, and 2012.
The Birth of Mayday: A Rock & Roll Journey
Mayday's roots lie in So Band, a band formed by Ashin, Monster, and their first drummer, Chien You-ta, in 1995 while attending The Affiliated Senior High School of National Taiwan Normal University. Their ranks expanded with the arrival of Masa and Stone, fellow students at the same school. Even after graduation and venturing into separate universities, their passion for music remained undiminished, leading them to perform in pubs and eateries, actively contributing to the burgeoning rock music scene in Taiwan. In 1997, they registered for the Formoz Festival under the name Mayday, marking a significant turning point in their journey.
Inspired by The Beatles, Mayday embraced the transformative power of rock music, weaving into their songs messages of love and peace, aiming to inspire change and uplift hearts across the world.
Founded in: 2012
No Party For Cao Dong (草東沒有派對), a Taiwanese indie rock band known for their raw energy and emotional depth, has emerged as a formidable force in the Asian music scene.
From Schoolyard Jams to Underground Icons:
The band's roots lie in the familiar story of friendship and shared passion. Guitarists and vocalists Wood Lin and Judy Chan, who met in high school and remained close throughout their time at Taipei National University of the Arts, were driven by a shared love for music. Their journey began in 2012 as "Party at Cao Dong Street," a name inspired by the bustling street in Taipei's Shilin District, a place where they often found themselves, whether it was Lin skateboarding or Chan running alongside him.
Their early sound, infused with the electronic rock influences of Two Door Cinema Club, resonated on campus and beyond. However, a series of lineup changes, including the departures of their original bassist and drummer, led them to rebrand as "No Party For Cao Dong" in 2014. The band found new collaborators in FUBAR frontman Sam Cheng on bass and Leo Liu on drums, injecting fresh energy into their sound.
A Year of Silence, a New Beginning:
The band’s trajectory took an unexpected turn when Cheng was called up for military service, forcing them into a year-long hiatus. This period of reflection proved crucial for No Party For Cao Dong, as they began to approach their music with a newfound seriousness. They sought to craft something more meaningful, a sound that truly reflected their evolving selves.
Upon Cheng's return, the band decided to embrace a different direction, choosing to re-establish a solid foundation. They welcomed Sam Yang, another graduate of Taipei National University of the Arts, to fill the bass position. This lineup change, combined with their renewed focus, marked a significant turning point for No Party For Cao Dong.
The Beginning of a Legacy:
Their early tracks, "Old Zhang," "Grisly Me," and "Fifty," uploaded online, showcased their raw talent and their ability to translate personal experiences into powerful musical expressions. These tracks, imbued with a gritty, emotional intensity, became a harbinger of the band's future success, solidifying their place as a vital force in the world of Taiwanese indie rock.