“Deep in Love, Hype in Music”: 18.18 on Destiny, Discipline, and Doing It Their Way
From metal beginnings to pop-punk resurgence, 18.18 embodies Saigon’s evolving sound — experienced musicians rediscovering youth through energy, love, and chemistry. Frontman Billy shares the band’s journey, creative process, and plans to push Vietnamese alternative music further than ever before.
happyco. — The Company of Friends and Feedback Loops
Saigon’s Happyco. turn everyday monotony into melodic chaos. Blending ‘80s hardcore grit with modern DIY spirit, they’re proof that punk isn’t dead, it’s just getting started again in Vietnam’s underground.
Artifact in Motion: From Wagga Wagga Grit to an Asian Debut and a New Era
Artifact grew from Wagga Wagga’s small-town grit into a dual-vocal force carving its place in Australia’s crowded metalcore scene. Now, with “Umbra” on the way and their first Asian tour behind them, they’re stepping into a new era.
Marching Through Sadness, Dancing Through Neon: Jaigon Orchestra’s Theatrical Ride from Ska to Saigon’s “Chinatown”
Jaigon Orchestra’s journey spans ska beginnings, a bold My Chemical Romance–inspired tribute, and the nostalgic Cantonese-flavored hit “Chinatown.” Frontman Kiet reflects on growth, theatrical sound, and community spirit, proving that experimentation, collaboration, and trusting the process define their ever-shifting identity.
From Tokyo to Saigon: Kruelty Talks Sound, Scene, and Staying True
Tokyo’s Kruelty made a powerful debut in Ho Chi Minh City, delivering a raw and focused set that showcased their signature fusion of hardcore energy and death metal weight. Known for their relentless touring and strong DIY ethic, the band opened up about their writing process, global grind, and life on the road — from home studios to U.S. recording sessions with Taylor Young. Honest, grounded, and committed to the scene, Kruelty proves heavy music is about more than sound. It’s about connection, work ethic, and never acting bigger than the crowd in front of you. Full interview now live.
String Theory and Hardcore Heart: Xmoraz’s Mission to Heal Through Metal
Taiwan’s Xmoraz fuse melodic metalcore with classical flair, but their true power lies in purpose — spreading hope through heavy music. Before tearing up Vietnam with District 105, they told us about their roots, struggles, and mission to heal, not hurt.
Empathize: Saigon’s Young Hardcore Hope Punching Through the Noise
Empathize is one of Saigon’s most promising young hardcore bands — raw, driven, and unafraid to speak their truth. Rooted in their local scene but aiming globally, they’re ready to shake things up with honesty, energy, and unfiltered passion.
Gargoyles in the Night Wasteland: Crafting Ugly Metal Bastards from Hanoi’s Shadows
Gargoyles in the Night Wasteland talk origins, Hanoi’s heavy scene, and their raw DIY debut. From countryside roots to theatrical noise, the duo embrace dissonance and community while carving a strange, heartfelt place for themselves in Vietnam’s underground.
From Hanoi to the World: GAI’s Crowdsourced Comeback and DIY Global Ascent
GAI’s crowdsourced debut marks their rebirth, blending Hanoi grit with global reach. Through remote collaboration, DIY visuals, and relentless work, they’ve built an authentic, modern brand—proving even from a small scene, you can make waves worldwide.
Code & Chords: The Inner Life of XOI
An intimate look into XOI’s world—where grief fuels creativity, code meets chords, and music becomes a mirror of identity, sacrifice, and hope. A story of resilience, self-expression, and staying true amid life’s many contradictions.