In Vietnam, there’s a tradition where parents throw a birthday party called “thôi nôi” when their child turns one, a symbolic moment marking the child’s first milestone of growth. In this case, that “child” is the No Cover show by HCMC Original, a passionate, non-profit music organizer driven purely by love for music and the underground DIY scene in Ho Chi Minh City. A night that exploded with energy, both from the lineup and the crowd, a loud yet introspective auditory feast that pulled the audience in as part of the performance itself.
The night’s lineup featured both emerging and veteran artists, each with their unique style but united by one thing: pure passion for music and a desire to build a thriving community. Some people came out of curiosity, some were regulars at the venue, and some just came for the raffle, but all were appreciated for being part of the celebration.
Opening With a New But Familiar Face
3ft Owls is a new band but a familiar presence to the No Cover crowd, known for not sticking to a fixed genre. Shoegaze, noise rock, indie rock, they traverse them all, yet fully command the space they create. They kicked off the night with a captivating, easy-to-digest but far-from-simple sound. As their fingers danced across keys and strings, the band fluidly shifted between three guitarists, each with distinct flair, genre-bending, noise-filled, and ethereal. The surprise came when Chơn grabbed the mic like an anarchic prophet, transforming an already aggressive space into something even more menacing, screamo voice echoing as he sprinted across the venue, alternating with 3ft owls’ vocalist, the crowd was no longer just watching, they were being absorbed into the noise. They set the venue ablaze, promising a night that was anything but ordinary.
DJ Preacher, Spreading His Own Message
Badhonestman returned with a new persona — a part-time preacher with a sinful past. This time, instead of the chaotic madness from previous shows, they delivered a darkly introspective and comedic performance. Dancing and swirling through microtonal guitar sounds, the stage turned into a dreamy, theatrical space — more a sermon than a show. Using a robotic voice and a black crucifix, they “judged” the crowd, inviting them to confess their sins. As the preacher’s message echoed: “Jesus died for our sins. If we don’t sin, he died for nothing.” As the crowd swayed and smirked, unsure whether to laugh, cry, or confess, Badhonestman delivered a set that blurred the line between performer and prophet.
Stomping Through The Night With Raw Energy
If the first two acts twisted the night into surreal dreamscapes, Coastal Connection brought us back to the pure, beating heart of indie rock. Known for their tight performances and serious approach to craft, they delivered a set that was both technically impressive and emotionally resonant. Their booming indie rock sound, led by technically skilled drumming, directed the emotional tone of the entire performance. Their signature: vocals that were both angelic and raw, filled with an old-school spirit. Their sound brought flashes of ‘80s glam rock riffs mixed with the reflective nature of early 2000s indie — an energy that felt nostalgic but never outdated.
The Closing Act Of A New Future
XOI wrapped up the night. A band that’s become a frequent presence at No Cover. As they stepped on stage, the crowd went wild. Much like their recent double album, their performance was a non-stop explosion, getting everyone to dance, scream, and sing along like they were part of the band. Their gritty, genre-blending screams and fast-paced improvised drumming went straight to the audience’s hearts, pulling them into an emotional roller coaster. And when the crowd demanded an encore, they delivered with a raw demo a reminder that even unfinished art, when shared with love, can hit the hardest. Like a promise that this community will continue to thrive, as long as there are people willing to commit and sacrifice for its growth.
As the night came to a close, applause filled the room, hugs were exchanged, and photos were snapped to capture the moment. The host returned for a final fun raffle — and (luckily) we won a prize — showing appreciation for everyone who made the night special. For some, this might just be another show in Ho Chi Minh City. But to this community, it was proof of growth, a testament to rising above challenges, and a dedication to a new underground wave. One year in — and it’s only just beginning. We’re so lucky to be part of this milestone.
Here’s to No Cover — may it always thrive and prosper.
