Singapore’s Tariot returned to Saigon alongside Under Pressure, Empathize, Hypertension, and Diarsia for Hiệp Sĩ Mèo Đắm Đuối Nhìn Nhạc Co!. A night of growth, grit, and reflection—showing how far the scene has come, and what it still needs to learn.
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.
All Mixed Up Vol.7 brought Brit-pop, post-rock, punk, and post-metal together on one stage. Despite a mid-show injury that paused the night, the series proved its value—equal space for different sounds, and a reminder that community care keeps shows alive.
Hanoi’s Blood Serpent and Osaka’s Iron Bludgeon unite in Baptized in Iron and Blood, a six-track split of black/death and war-metal fury. Released via House of Ygra, the EP delivers raw aggression, ritualistic atmosphere, and uncompromising underground intensity.
Saigon’s Empathize represent Vietnam on Beyond the Wire, a Southeast Asian hardcore split via Stick Tight Records. Featuring one fresh track each from Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines, the release unites four cultures under a single, powerful hardcore banner.
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.
Summer Madness in Nha Trang was bold, chaotic, and unforgettable. From genre-spanning performances and surprise rainstorms to an abrupt, tense ending, the night showed both the promise and growing pains of a young scene daring to dream bigger. Lessons await.
A blackout couldn’t stop Saigon’s heavy scene from delivering a night of chaos, craft, and lessons in going bigger. From Kruelty’s world-class precision to local bands’ raw energy, it was proof the scene grows through shared stages and higher standards.
District 105’s homecoming show at Um Ba La brought together six acts, a sold-out crowd, and a surge of energy that marked a high point in Saigon’s heavy music scene — a night of connection, movement, and earned momentum.
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.
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