Magazine Category: Article

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.

As springtime blossoms all around, the year’s festival cycle kicks into full gear. Setting the tone for a promising year of fresh energy is Vietnam’s most hotly anticipated Equation Festival 2025, happening from April 4 to 6.

Returning to its signature two-stage offering backdropped by the unmatched natural beauty and intimate atmosphere of Mai Châu, Equation continues to prove its mettle as one of Asia’s most unique music festivals. Amid pleasant weather and warm local hospitality, festival-goers once again have the opportunity to experience the immersive Garden Stage setup and the now infamous Cave rave, where a lineup of infectious electronic sound unravels.

Headliners include John Talabot, Peach, CEM, Jacob Meehan, and Tundji—all playing Equation for the first time. Festival regulars such as Di Linh, Zhiqi, Sisi, Manikk, Ouissam, DOTT, Elaheh, Emel Rowe, and Saint Guel bring their seasoned flavor to the stage. Expect new faces like D. Tiffany, Dignos, NaiBan, Sarayu, Shrugs, and Nomoclassiq to showcase impactful debuts as well.

A special feature of Equation is their emphasis on highlighting Asian talent. This year’s spotlight shines on a dynamic cohesion of top-notch selectors from Vietnam, Japan, Thailand, and the Philippines. Watch out for a freewheeling range of genres and styles that capture the unique sound and energy of the region. From the dreamy, ambient sounds of Nhat and Toss to the funky grooves of local DJs like Feelz, Tobes, and Zwi.

Another crowd-pleasing highlight is the yearly drag show presented by local Vietnamese collectives Genderfunk, Peach, and Snug; opening Saturday night in the cave with unapologetic camp and over-the-top energy.

As always, bringing the festival to its highest peaks, Bangkok-based Human Spectrum Collective brings in their otherworldly production, augmenting the lush vibrance of the Garden Stage and engulfing the jagged limestone formations in the Cave with hypnotic light installations, in collaboration with local design studio Culm-Innate’s organic, eco-friendly stagecraft made from bamboo and renewable materials.

Unlike larger festivals, Equation keeps its attendance capped at 999, ensuring a more personal and connected experience among attendees. It’s not just a festival, it’s a community gathering. Artists, DJs, event organizers, club owners, dancers, and music enthusiasts come together, creating a close-knit community that thrives on music and meaningful connections.

What are you waiting for? Book your tickets now and experience the alluring magic of Equation Festival 2025.

For its 12th momentous gathering, Organik Festival returns to their revered Secret Island venue on Taiwan’s North Coast Peninsula for three days of music and revelry immersed in the country’s natural grandeur along with its dependable roster of homegrown talent and worldwide guests. Happening from April 25 to 27, 2025, Organik offers a space for the convergence of underground electronic music and vibrant community spirit, presented and organized by the renowned Smoke Machine collective.

Lauded for its distinctive artistic vision, sonic escapades, and transportive aesthetics, the festival will again feature three mesmerizing stages. The Organik Stage, embraced by a vista of breathtaking mountains and sea, the enigmatic Red Pillars ruins, and the serene Golden Arc ambient greenhouse.

With its history of showcasing forward-thinking artists and global heavy-hitters alongside the region’s best selectors, this year’s lineup includes the likes of John Talabot, Eris Drew, Octo Octa, Batu, DJ Spit, Timo Lee, RHR, Verraco as well as returning favorites, local mainstays, and emerging names from around Asia such as Diskonnected, DJ MARIA., DOTT, Emel Rowe, FFAN, Hibiya Line, Jesse Chen, Miranda Ku, Ouissam, and YAMARCHY.

Beyond the musical programming, festival-goers can explore a variety of food stalls and participate in engaging workshops, ensuring a weekend filled with every kind of groove and rhythm to lock into.

There’s a reason Organik Festival is a consistent standout of the annual Asian festival circuit. For a few days, nestled into the glorious landscapes of Taiwan, an unmissable and exuberant concentration of music, joy, and energy unfolds, known only to those who experience it.

Manila-based independent label Twelve Points Records is celebrating its first anniversary with the release of a special compilation album, highlighting the diverse and ever-evolving underground music landscape of Southeast Asia. Titled Twelve Points Records Vol. 1: Pathways, the 12-track collection has just been released this February 9, solidifying the label’s role in amplifying Asian talent on the global stage.

Since its launch last year, Twelve Points Records has been on a mission to push sonic boundaries while fostering a close-knit community of artists, producers, and music enthusiasts. Pathways serves as both a milestone and a manifesto—a showcase of the region’s underground scene, featuring rising and disruptive artists who are shaping its future.

A Soundtrack of Southeast Asia’s Underground

The compilation blends a range of styles—including techno, house, ambient, breaks, and experimental dance music—capturing the dynamic and layered sounds that define contemporary club culture across the region. Pathways presents a sonic journey, reflecting the deep, cross-cultural influences of Southeast Asia’s underground music scene. 

Pathways brings together a powerhouse lineup of emerging and established names from Southeast Asia’s underground scene. It kicks off with STP’s 101010, an ambient and atmospheric track that lays the groundwork for the journey ahead. Hanoi-based producer Mishouju delivers the warped, bass-driven So What, while Manila’s own Saint Guel reinvents Kylie Minogue’s iconic track with a dreamy and uplifting rework for In Ur Eyes. DOTT, co-founder of Bangkok’s More Rice Records, infuses Love Strive with a slick blend of house and stripped-down techno, while rising talent Meek brings a moody and cinematic depth to KTWN, reimagining a Filipino disco classic.

The journey continues with Junoy Manalo channeling his NYC nightlife experiences into Gabriela (HOD Mix), a deep, pulsating groove with crisp highs and resonant lows. Bins crafts Insensate, a techy slow-burn packed with immersive textures and a punchy kick, while Ayøn unleashes Renegade, a high-energy, breakbeat-fueled rollercoaster. Constance, alongside Leon, blends earthy rhythms and deep house nuances on Bula, layering in an infectious, unexpected swing. Twelve Points Records co-founder Tomas steps in with Take That!, a punchy, high-octane dancefloor driver, while JAV/ launches listeners on a journey to the stars with Supersoniq, climaxing into a combination of bangers by Sonique and Jamelia. Wrapping up the compilation, ThirstKid delivers Cusp of Dreams, a hypnotic, slow-burning closer that leaves you yearning for more.

A Celebration of Connection and Creativity

Tomas Cabili, co-founder of Twelve Points Records, describes the compilation as a tribute to the thriving Asian Electronic Music Community:

 “This compilation is a love letter to the Asian electronic music community. We’ve always believed in the power of music to connect people, and this album is a celebration of the incredible talent and diversity we’ve discovered over the past year—and a statement of what’s to come. We’re just getting started, and this is only the beginning of what Twelve Points Records can achieve.”

To further mark this milestone, Twelve Points Records is also launching a party series featuring the compilation’s artists, bringing the music to dance floors across the region.

Listen to Pathways

The album will be available for streaming on Spotify, Apple Music, and Bandcamp, giving listeners worldwide access to this powerful collection of forward-thinking electronic music.

Tracklist

• STP – 101010
• Junoy Manalo – Gabriela (HOD Mix)
• Bins – Insensate
• Mishouju – So What
• Saint Guel – In Ur Eyes
• Meek – KTWN
• Ayøn – Renegade
• Constance – Bula (feat. Leon)
• DOTT – Love Strive
• Tomas – Take That!
• JAV/ – Supersoniq
• ThirstKid – Cusp of Dreams

For updates, event announcements, and behind-the-scenes content, follow @twelvepointsrecords on social media.

For Media Inquiries:

Tomas Cabili (Tomas)
Co-Founder, Twelve Points Records

📧 twelvepointsrecords@gmail.com
🎧 Bandcamp: twelvepointsrecords.bandcamp.com
📲 Social Media: @twelvepointsrecords

About Twelve Points Records:

Twelve Points Records is an independent electronic music label based in Manila, Philippines, dedicated to discovering, nurturing, and promoting cutting-edge talent from Asia and beyond. With a focus on innovation and community, the label has quickly become a home for forward-thinking artists and music lovers alike.

Sunda Festival returns to electrify Singapore’s buzzworthy party scene. Bringing together a significant lineup of regional heavy-hitters, their mission is to celebrate the diversity of Asia-Pacific’s creative scenes.

This April, Sunda Festival returns to electrify Singapore’s buzzworthy party scene. Bringing together a significant lineup of regional heavy-hitters, their mission is to celebrate the diversity of Asia-Pacific’s creative scenes. Co-organized by Singapore’s Ice Cream Sundays party collective and Hong Kong’s FuFu Creative, this dance music festival is sure to be a feast for the senses.

The heart of the multi-day festival lies in its exceptionally curated musical programming, featuring DJs, live electronic acts, and bands. Headliners include Japanese electronic music maestro Soichi Terada, Kaifeng DJ/producer Yu Su, Thailand mainstay Chucheewa, and Klasse Wrecks founder Mr. Ho. Joining them are Danilo Plessow (MCDE), a globally revered selector known for his groundbreaking “Raw Cuts” series and genre-defying performances, and La Mamie’s, a Parisian DJ group with long-standing ties to Asia’s music scene as the founders of Hong Kong’s Shi Fu Miz Festival.

The festivities kick off on April 17 with an urban Opening Night event at MDLR, one of Singapore’s premier nightlife venues. Headlined by Rush Hour Records co-founder Antal, this initial gathering offers a taste of what’s to come over the festival weekend.

Representing the region’s dynamic music landscape are standout acts like Mogwaa from South Korea, Philippine DJs Emel Rowe and Saint Guel, who recently closed WonderFruit Festival 2024, and BongBongQuayQuay, resident of Saigon nightlife institution The Observatory. Rounding things out are homegrown Singapore talents like Fzpz and Fauxe as well as bands like Mantravine, Sappy Chill, and Mary Sue and the Clementi Sound Appreciation Club. Expect a journey through sound, from psychedelic fusion and alternative dance music to hard-hitting techno.

From April 18-19, Sunda Festival continues at the Sarimbun Scout Camp, a serene, secluded location along Singapore’s green coastline, providing the perfect backdrop for an immersive experience. With three stages set up across the camp, festival-goers will have the chance to explore diverse genres and styles while also connecting with nature.

The festival takes its name from the Sunda Plate, a tectonic plate spanning the Southeast Asian territories, embodying the spirit of a united region. Sunda shines a spotlight on Asia-Pacific talent while fostering collaboration and community-building across nations.

Don’t miss your chance to be part of this extraordinary celebration of music, culture, and connection.