18.18 transformed a simple showcase into a sonic eruption. Giấy Gấp and Jaigon Orchestra weaving unexpected textures, and 18.18 closing out the night in thunderous style, Saigon’s independent scene rose loud, proud, and uncontainable.
Out The Run delivered another wild yet strangely orderly night in Saigon. From Grudgebound’s explosive early set to Blind Girls’ emotional crash, District 105’s EP premiere and KINH’s razor-sharp finale, the show moved with constant intensity. A loud, warm reminder of how alive the underground still is.
District 105 unleash “I Dream Of (My Own Death),” the second single from CHAPTER II: THE HATED PROTECTOR, featuring US rapper Mikey Rotten. A dark, frantic blend of metallic hardcore and hip-hop, the track arrives with a gritty Saigon-shot video and drops just ahead of their full EP release.
Saigon’s indie heartbeat erupted inside Alibi as four contrasting acts—Sugary Serial, 7/4 Surfers, Navy, and Con Cá Điện—turned a small room into a charged, shape-shifting soundscape. From dream pop warmth to chaotic electric storms, the night showed how deeply live music can transform a space.
District 105 sharpen their identity with Chapter II: THE HATED PROTECTOR, a three track release that fuses cultural roots, emotional weight and a newfound sonic confidence. Heavy, experimental and cohesive, the EP confirms the band’s evolution into a globally ready force in modern metallic hardcore.
Saigon’s punk-pop act 18.18 return with a vibrant new video for “KẾT GIỚI,” directed by A Dính and shot at Nông Trại Khoai. The track expands their signature playful chaos, following the EP we recently reviewed and our interview with frontman Billy.
District 105 return with “Bad Dog,” a fierce continuation of their earlier EP and a prelude to Chapter II: THE HATED PROTECTOR, out November 21st. The track, mixed by longtime collaborator Sava Tomic and paired with a visualizer by Seventy Heptagons, pushes the band toward darker, heavier screamo territory.
“Haretic Madness Revue” unfolded as a full‑day ritual of chaos and release — from meditative art installations to the cathartic explosion of live music by Sinister, Anesthetic Youth, Thỏ Trauma, Black Industry, and CHƠN. A visceral journey of sound, emotion, and self‑liberation through pure, unfiltered art.
From math-rock precision to post-hardcore chaos and Indonesian shoegaze serenity, Ngẩng Đầu Nhìn Trăng Sáng, Cúi Đầu Thấy Pề Đan gathered five acts under one moonlit roof. A night that showcased how far Vietnam’s underground has grown, and how alive it remains.
Saigon’s Halloween show flipped expectations with a lineup that balanced heartfelt moments and explosive energy. From 18:18’s emotional set to Defying Decay’s chaos and I See Stars’ flawless delivery, the night proved that great production and passion can go hand in hand. A fresh spark for the local scene.
