Magazine Category: Article

Japan’s Paramount 2025 Open Air Party is back from May 24 to 25 at the Gunma Cycle Sports Center, continuing its tradition of delivering boundary-pushing electronic music experiences in a stunning natural environment. Known for its impeccable curation, immersive design, and top-tier sound, Paramount has earned its place as one of Japan’s most respected outdoor festivals.

Since its early days, Paramount has been a beacon for underground music lovers, drawing attention for its bold lineups and unique approach to staging. Past editions have welcomed international artists alongside some of Japan’s finest local talents. A key component of Paramount’s distinct identity is its partnership with the OtOdashi SOUND SYSTEM, a custom-engineered setup revered for its deep, crystal-clear sonic output—ensuring every beat, melody, bassline, and drop resonates with the crowd.

This year’s lineup strikes a perfect balance between global innovators and homegrown heroes. International acts include Azu Tiwaline, who weaves North African rhythms into forward-thinking electronic music; Newa, a Georgian artist known for her deep and hypnotic techno flair; OK E.G., an experimental electronic duo from Australia; Priority, bringing their versatile, high-energy sound; and Temudo, a Portuguese producer praised for his minimal, kinetic style. They’ll be joined by domestic selectors Dawn Ever, NOCO, Hidai, Shuuma, Mimu, and TAAAHHH—each bringing their sonic signature and deep roots in the local scene.

Adding another layer of depth to the experience, a collective of visionary designers will transform the festival site. The space design will feature work from Bivouac, CK13, HAJIME, HEVEN HUG DESIGN, idealsolution (Leitfaden), KzO (UOU), Nekkopokko, RYOTA, Samaya Design, Sanguisorba, and wacky (COLORgung). Together, they’ll craft an atmosphere that augments the surrounding nature with splendid lighting and visual installations.

Beyond the music and visuals, Paramount 2025 will also feature a vibrant collection of food vendors and boutique shops, offering a variety of eats and artisanal goods to round out the weekend experience.

Whether you’re a dedicated dancefloor regular or new to the scene, Paramount 2025 invites you to participate in a unique celebration of music, art, and community in the heart of Gunma.

In No One Magazine’s sophomore release, Vietnam’s queer underground rises to the forefront, offering a rare and vital look at the untamed depths of this emerging scene. Rather than explain this unseen world to outsiders, the magazine speaks directly from the inside out, featuring 15 stories by more than 20 contributors who are Vietnamese, queer, or part of the diaspora. Discover unfiltered and intimate perspectives, stories, and images from the very communities celebrated in the magazine.

Launching with a bang and a ball in Ho Chi Minh City on Saturday, April 19, at Bardo Bar (Úm Ba La), the magazine collaborates with the Anime Showdown Kiki Ball hosted by Iori Pinklady Mizrahi, again demonstrating the magazine’s dedication to collaborating with and championing the people who are likewise featured in the issue.

More than just a magazine drop, the program includes an excerpt reading, drag acts, and traditional cultural dance, before formally segueing into the Anime Showdown Kiki Ball itself, where voguing goes kawaii, realness is inspired by slice-of-life manga, and fashion meets mecha for a night of pageantry, glamour, and sickening performances.

No One Magazine Issue 02 covers everything from religious psalms in Boiler Room sets, the country’s first and only sapphic-led party, techno getting cozy with homegrown “vinahouse,” the intersections of queer culture and folk spirituality, as well as drag collectives lighting up everything from city clubs to rural cave raves, encompassing the country’s historic past, its present, and how it continues to shape the future of nightlife as both refuge and revolution.

As their mantra claims,

For we are no one without each other, and none of us is like another.

Think of it as a mixtape of voices from the margins, where nightlife meets politics, where the dancefloor is both battleground and sanctuary. Instead of reducing Vietnam’s queer culture to spectacle or sob story, they give space for the community to narrate its own complexity. It doesn’t just capture the vibe—it lets you live in it for a minute.

Put together with love, tears, and glittery sweat, No One Magazine Issue 02 is an extravagant chaos. Brazen, defiant, and unrestrained, just like Vietnam’s queer underground scene itself.

Future release parties are lined up for Amsterdam (May 9) and New York (May 16). 
Follow the RSVP link to join.

Boogie nights and disco lights are staying alive as India’s beloved Dynamite Disco Club (DDC) celebrates its 8-year anniversary with a high-voltage tour across three major cities in the subcontinent: Mumbai, Bangalore, and Pune. What started in 2017 as a humble radio show on Boxout.fm by DJ and producer Stalvart John has grown into one of the region’s most influential disco and house collectives, shaping the country’s modern dance music landscape for the better part of a decade.

Dynamite Disco Club’s 8-Year Anniversary Tour kicks off in Mumbai at Khar Social on April 4, followed by a homecoming in Bangalore at The Burrow on April 12, and concludes in Pune at The High Spirits Cafe on April 27. Each stop features a handpicked lineup of DDC’s core artists and collaborators, promising deep grooves and soulful energy along the way.

Leading the charge is founder Stalvart John, whose commitment to disco, house, and community-building has made him a central figure in the resurgence of these genres in India. From performances at Magnetic Fields, Lollapalooza, and Echoes of Earth, to international releases on labels like Get Physical, Wind Horse Records, and Springbok Records, Stalvart has built DDC into more than just a party—it’s a cultural institution.

The Mumbai lineup features Disko Samosa, known for his sundrenched, groove-heavy sets that fuse funk with modern electronic texture. His eclectic style and dedication to crate-digging have earned him a strong foothold in the country’s underground scene.

Joining the tour in Bangalore is Sindhi Curry (Pramod Sippy), a torchbearer for vinyl culture in India and a co-founder of The Bombay Elektrik Project and The Hive. His sets pay homage to house, disco, soul, and techno traditions, always delivered with a flair for the unexpected. Hash, also featured in Bangalore, is celebrated for her deeply emotional house music journeys that explore shared frequencies and feelings through sound.

In Pune, the tour finale welcomes a special collaboration between Stalvart John and Arun Sivag, a Bangalore-based percussionist and social entrepreneur. Arun’s work blends South Indian folk traditions with global percussion styles, and his involvement with cultural programs for the UN and UNICEF adds an inspiring depth to his performances.

Beyond the music, Dynamite Disco Club has established a powerful legacy. With over 95 radio shows, 40+ label releases, multiple festival showcases, and a growing mentorship network, DDC transcends the nightlife scene, becoming a movement whose influence is felt across the globe. It’s a community rooted in inclusivity, culture, and dancefloor freedom—a rare combination that resonates across cities and generations.

As the collective steps into its eighth year, this tour serves as a moment of reflection and renewal. It’s a tribute to the spirit that drives DDC: the belief that music is a unifying force, and that every beat can be a step toward a more connected world.

Blast off beyond your wildest imagination at Transcendence Festival, happening from May 10 to 11, 2025 at Village HAKUSHU in Hokuto City, Yamanashi, Japan.

While Japan’s underground music scene continues to up the ante, Transcendence Festival takes it up a notch with their revolutionary approach to outdoor raving. Founded by Takumi Inamoto and DJ MARIA., this music-forward celebration is dedicated to pushing electronic sound into deeper, uncharted, and at times psychedelic territories. With its bold claim to shape the future of electronic music, Transcendence offers festival-goers a unique escape and sensory immersion into Japan’s countryside as well as its sonic subculture.

In an era where many long-standing festivals follow the same patterns, Transcendence breaks away from the norm by spotlighting rising stars and fostering an environment where fresh talent can thrive. Unlike large-scale raves that suffer from overcrowding and chaotic atmospheres, Transcendence keeps things small and intimate. Here, the focus is on pure sound quality and genuine music appreciation, creating a space where true music lovers can fully lose themselves in the experience.

The 2025 lineup is packed with artists and selectors making waves and renowned for their outstanding craft and talent. Attendees will enjoy electrifying sets by Agonis, Akie, DJ MARIA., Garçon, Konduku, Kuniyuki (Live), Occa, Spekki Webu (Live), Takumi Inamoto, Timnah, and Vlada. Each artist brings their own unique style, ensuring an all-encompassing and mesmerizing journey throughout the festival.

Held at the breathtaking Village Hakushu, Transcendence offers a picturesque experience alongside cutting-edge musical talent. Isolated in the rollicking hillside of Yamanashi Prefecture, Village Hakushu is known for its pristine natural beauty and crystal-clear lake. One can explore local hot springs, take in stunning mountain views, or visit nearby cultural sites, all secluded from the busy energy of daily urban life.

Adding to the festival’s distinction is its meticulous attention to sound and space design. The crisp, premium sound system is provided by OtOdashi, ensuring crystal-clear audio that enhances every beat, rhythm, and melody. The rich nature is augmented by the creative vision of space designers RGB, Shinovi Creation, and Yin Yang Flower, who build an otherworldly atmosphere that blends seamlessly with the natural surroundings.

If you’re ready to experience music in its purest form, then prepare to embark on a rave like no other. Tickets are limited, so secure yours soon and be part of something truly transcendent.

After nearly half a decade at its acclaimed Dang Thai Mai location, Savage Club in Hanoi announces its imminent closure due to a government-led urban development project in Quang An Peninsula, anticipated for sometime in the upcoming months.

A cornerstone of Hanoi’s nightlife and creative scene, Savage opened its doors in 2016 along Xuan Dieu, Tay Ho before eventually relocating in 2020 to its current three-story villa venue in Dang Thai Mai. The government officials have ordered for a closure in July, 2025. Although exact closure dates remain uncertain, there remains a possibility that the club’s operations could cease at any time within the coming months as the local Hanoi government prepares the surrounding area for the construction of a large-scale modern opera house and cultural park.

The nightclub’s closure comes as part of the implementation of Decision 6132, signed by Vice Chairman of the Hanoi City People’s Committee, Duong Duc Tuan. The detailed plan encompasses a 44.1-hectare area transformation of the central axis of Quang An peninsula across Quang An and Tu Lien wards in the Tay Ho District. The development includes entertainment spaces along with spiritual and artistic parks, establishing it as a modern cultural and green hub for the city. A long-rumored new Opera House theater serves as its centerpiece.

Although Savage regrets to announce the sudden closure, the club remains proud to call Tay Ho District home, having cultivated a diverse and inclusive community of music lovers, creatives, and party-goers over the past years. More than just a club, Savage has itself become a home for people to grow, express themselves, and connect with like-minded people from around the globe, especially around Asia.

Deepest gratitude goes out to the community of Savage regulars, artists, and team who have made the club their home for so many unforgettable moments. Follow Savage’s social media channels for updates on events, closure details, and plans for the future.

For well over 3000 years, China’s capital city of Beijing has thrived with relentless vitality. The history of entire civilizations courses through its tangled hutongs, life itself pulsing through ancient monuments alongside ultramodern skyscrapers in its ever-evolving cultural landscape. As the political and artistic heart of China, the city brims with intense energy, a developmental hub fusing tradition and innovation. From the breakneck pace of its streets to the underground movements redefining music and art, Beijing embodies high energy at every turn.

PILLBOX was founded and raised within this electrifying environment, born from the very spirit of Beijing while embracing a more progressive and optimistic outlook. It’s a space built for renegades, boundary-pushers, and those who seek an unfiltered experience of sound and expression.

To celebrate one year of shaping the city’s nightlife, PILLBOX welcomes and invites all to a weekend-long anniversary special happening on April 18 and 19. Committed to its ethos of championing local talent, 17 outstanding homegrown DJs will showcase their skills with exhilarating B2B sets, complemented by four headlining international acts, all of whom are guaranteed to push the limits of sonic expression and rhythm. This event isn’t just a party—it’s a testament to a year of fearless community empowerment.

See the fully stacked lineup and timetable here:

From the very beginning, PILLBOX was envisioned as more than just a club. Built upon the essence of high-energy electronic dance music, it has become a sanctuary for creativity, where artists, designers, and freethinkers alike converge. Over the past year, PILLBOX has redefined the nightlife experience, offering a space where authenticity reigns, representation matters, and self-expression knows no bounds.

In the club’s own words, their goal is to create a

“Pleasure-driven space” that cultivates inspiration and dynamic youth culture experiences. “We encourage people to embrace their desires and emotions, to express their true selves, because we believe that everyone deserves respect and acceptance. Here, societal labels and prejudices are left behind, allowing individuals to fully express themselves. No matter your sexual orientation, gender identity, or cultural background, PILLBOX welcomes you.

Take the plunge this summer as revered Japanese open-air electronic music festival Rural returns to Nowhere CAMP at Inawashiro, Fukushima for a second year, from July 18 to 21.

As always, the festival immerses attendees in Japan’s natural landscapes and various cultural traditions, bringing underground music to eclectic and remote countryside destinations that offer distinctive experiences every time. Rural has consistently reinforced itself as a must-visit event for music lovers seeking something extraordinary.

Even with their initial announcement of only nine names on the lineup (Amelia Holt, Cosmo, DJ Healthy, DJ HISUI, Konstantin, Nao, Oscar Mulero, Takaaki Itoh & DJ Yazi, and Toner)—Rural’s strong reputation speaks for itself, with three of their five ticket categories or price tiers already sold out.

Since its inception, Rural has solidified itself as a cornerstone of Japan’s electronic music scene, drawing a crowd eager to experience its well-curated atmosphere. Unlike larger commercial festivals, Rural has maintained an intimate and dedicated following, attracting a blend of local and international attendees who come not just for the music, but for the holistic experience of connection, nature, and sonic exploration. Past editions have seen remarkable turnouts while also revitalizing local ecosystems and showcasing the variety and raw beauty of Japan, from the mountainscapes of Niigata to the flowering fields of Yunomaru.

For this upcoming edition, Nowhere CAMP plays host to the festival, known for its tranquility and medicinal hot springs (onsen). The serene surroundings are an ideal backdrop for introspective sound journeys and dancefloor-driven grooves alike. Shuttle transportation to and from the festival venue offers ravers the opportunity to unwind and rejuvenate at the nearby natural hot springs and experience an integral part of Japanese culture and tradition in the process.

Rural engages crowds not just through music and sound, but in mind and body as well. The combination of progressive electronic beats, picturesque settings, and a soothing, warm bath promises a unique balance rarely found in other mainstream festivals.

Bangkok is in for a hot summer as Bar Temp. prepares to debut in Thailand’s tropical capital city this month. Now ready for its official debut, Bar Temp. hosts its Grand Opening Week from April 16 to 20, 2025, celebrating their fusion of top-tier mixology, cutting-edge music, and community-driven sensibility.

Nestled in the heart of Bangkok’s historic Old Town, the recently opened venue promises to be a vibrant cultural epicenter where music and artistry collide. Carefully curated by a founding team of nightlife veterans and seasoned bar owners—including the visionaries behind More Rice Records, Human Spectrum, and key figures from the late Never Normal Club—Bar Temp. is fueled by passion and a fierce dedication to quality.

Setting itself apart from other club venues, Bar Temp. is fully realized and designed to highlight both the DJ’s and patrons’ experience in mind. The space offers a relaxed yet electrifying atmosphere, with the full audiovisual experience taking centerstage. The Martin Audio sound system delivers every beat, rhythm, and melody with exceptional clarity and depth, making it a haven for true music lovers. Expertly crafted drinks are sure to draw in tasteful enthusiasts as well as cocktail snobs. The venue bridges the gap between an intimate after-hours bar setting and a high-caliber music venue, creating an environment for guests to truly connect with music as well as each other.

Stay tuned for a powerhouse Grand Opening Week lineup that promises to showcase the best and most forward-thinking of Bangkok’s nightlife scene while also bringing it to new heights.

As the summer season rolls in and people begin to plan for exotic adventures and must-see destinations, Mongolia’s acclaimed Playtime Festival surely deserves a spot on your list. Returning for its 24th edition on July 3 to 6, 2025, this annual celebration of music and culture will once again take place at the Playtime Field in Nalaikh, Ulaanbaatar, continuing its tradition of fostering cultural exchange through diverse musical showcase grounded in ecological consciousness.

Established in 2002, Playtime Festival has grown from a modest gathering into Mongolia’s largest and longest-running music festival. This year, the festival returns to the Playtime Field, its very own recently established outdoor festival grounds, less than two hours from Ulaanbaatar’s city center. The venue’s circular design resembles traditional Mongolian yurts and features botanical gardens, self-sustainable clean energy solutions, and eco-friendly camping sites. Initially conceived as a platform for local musicians, Playtime evolved to feature artists, performers, bands, and musical acts from across over 20 different countries, taking festival-goers on an intercontinental journey through sound.

Continuing the festival’s legacy of eclectic and inclusive programming, this year’s headliners hail from all around the world: France, Japan, Korea, India, Russia, the Netherlands, UK, USA, South America, Africa, Thailand, Philippines, and more, underscoring Playtime’s commitment to diversity and its role as a bridge between Eastern and Western musical traditions—with a rich mix of local Mongolian artists alongside international acts.

Spread across seven different thematic stages, some of the highly anticipated live bands performing include Alcest, envy, Jambinai, Balming Tiger, VVAS, Megumi Acorda, Mohanik, Batavia Collective, Drrones, and Puman. Taking the electronic stage are heavy-hitting DJs such as Aurora Halal, Ellen Allien, Klangkuenstler, Belief Defect, Albert Van Abbe, Pariah, Mama Snake, Jennifer Cardini, and many more.

Other than the music, Playtime offers a holistic cultural experience, with various booths and zones for food, entertainment, sports, shopping, and even a dedicated kids zone. The wide range of activities, art installations, workshops, and culinary delights reflect Mongolia’s colorful heritage while the mountainous surroundings immerse attendees in the region’s natural beauty.

While global festivals continuously aim to improve their environmental footprints and shift focus to more ethical practices, Playtime has consistently demonstrated and cultivated their dedication to sustainability and social responsibility for over 20 years. In alignment with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, the festival implements initiatives to effectively reduce waste from the festival, reject single-use plastic, promote reusable products, sort and recycle duplicate products, create an eco-green park by planting endangered trees in a forest reserve, as well as support the local economy by creating temporary jobs for citizens. Gender equality is notably emphasized, with women holding 70% of the festival’s managerial positions in 2023. Accessibility is also a priority, with programs translated for those with hearing difficulties.

At its core, Playtime Festival embodies the spirit of musical exploration and cultural celebration, fostering artistic expression and community engagement while caring for the natural environment. The 2025 edition promises to deliver unforgettable experiences for both longtime attendees and newcomers alike.

South Korea’s favorite electronic music festival, The Air House, returns to the scenic Nami Island in Chuncheon for three days and two nights of joyful celebration, from May 23 to May 25. For its 11th edition, festival-goers will experience the distinct integration of music, wellness, and the natural environment that The Air House is known for.

This year’s core slogan is “Feel the Air, Love This Moment,” urging us to be present and surrender to the here and now, immersing in the waves of sound and emotion. Variety is key for The Air House, with four distinct stages catering to different musical genres. Expect deep and hypnotic grooves at the Minimal & Techno stage, feel-good energy at House & Disco, soothing vibes at Ambient & Sound Healing, and a melting pot of high-caliber performances from the Live Bands stage. Whether you’re looking to dance until dawn or just soak in some blissful tunes, The Air House has got you covered.

The Phase 1 lineup boasts some serious talent with the likes of Âme DJ, Adriana Lopez, BINH, Evan Baggs, Nicolas Lutz, Sven Väth, Ouissam, Rhadoo, Traumer, Zimmer, and Wata Igarashi slated to deliver top-tier DJ sets. Local legends such as Kang San-Eh, BABO, and Sunday Lee add a distinctly Korean touch, presenting the very best of the homegrown music scene, all ensuring a dynamic mix of styles and moods throughout the weekend.

Aside from the music, The Air House prides itself in offering a holistic experience that goes beyond the dance floor. Think yoga sessions, meditation, aerobics, on-site camping, and other wellness activities designed to help you recharge between sets. With Nami Island as a backdrop, known for its natural beauty and as a popular shooting location for local TV shows and movies; it’s the perfect way to reset mind and body.

Sustainability is also a big part of the festival’s identity. This year, The Air House is doubling down on its commitment to eco-friendly practices, banning single-use plastics and ensuring only reusable products are used throughout the event. Enjoying the moment shouldn’t mean sacrificing respecting the environment.

Over the course of the weekend, the festival promises an unforgettable synergy of music, nature, and relaxation. Whether you’re a techno purist, a disco diva, a rock and roller, or just someone looking for a unique festival escape, The Air House is not to be missed.