Meet Thetans, Hanoi’s genre-warping punk quartet made up of longtime expats with roots in Tay Traus, Zerf, and Pariah Carey. They call their sound “proto-punk,” but don’t expect strict definitions. Their newly released EP “Worldwide Vibes” leans into synth-laced darkwave and post-punk moods while staying firmly grounded in punk’s raw spirit. We recently reviewed this bold, experimental follow-up to their debut “Highly-enriched Vibes”, and caught up with the band for a candid talk about scene dynamics, cultural identity, and why cheap beer is both a blessing and a curse.
Ethos:
Let’s start from the beginning—how did you all meet and what led to the formation of Thetans?
Thetans:
Bob and Mike were in between bands and got hooked up by a mate… We went to jam together but the studio was busy so we had a beer instead! Then things really got rolling when Alex and Nat joined. We knew them from previous bands (Tay Traus, Zerf, Pariah Carey) and it just clicked.
E:
Being an all-expat band in Vietnam, do you find it more difficult to navigate the local scene compared to if you were back home?
T:
It’s way easier! People are extremely supportive and receptive to new sounds and ideas.
E:
Do you see yourselves as part of the Vietnamese music scene, or more like outsiders contributing to it?
T:
A bit of both – there are separate scenes for locals and foreigners, but they cross over all the time. It’s normal to see metalheads, punks, indie fans and B-boys (and b-girls) all at the same show rocking out together and having a rad time.
E:
Many of your lyrics and themes are tied directly to Vietnamese culture and life—how did that become such a strong part of your artistic identity?
T:
We’ve all lived here for many years and Vietnam is truly our home. We love Vietnam and that comes through in the music and vibes we emit.
E:
How do local audiences usually react when they realize how much of your music is rooted in their everyday experience?
T:
We haven’t been booed off stage yet! Jokes aside, even when playing to a mainly Vietnamese audience, people will hang around to chat to us about the music and we love that!
E:
What would you say to other foreign bands considering playing in Vietnam? Why should they do it?
T:
It’s awesome! Cool bands, cool venues, cool crowds. The only negative is that the beer is really cheap. Possibly too cheap sometimes.
E:
Your sound blends punk, post-punk, and darkwave—what artists or personal experiences have shaped that mix?
T:
We all contribute different songs, lyrics and ideas to the band. We’re all into different music and we’re very open-minded – nothing is off the table.
E:
Do you think every culture puts its own spin on what punk is? How would you describe the “Vietnamese version” if there is one?
T:
The Vietnamese approach to punk is very DIY and super supportive. All the weirdos help each other, which is the true punk ethos. REC, Hub, Noise Hanoi and lots of venues and behind-the-scenes legends are keeping the thriving scene going and it’s only getting stronger.
E:
If you had to sum up Thetans in just one word, what would it be—and why?
T:
Vibes, because we have them.
E:
What’s next for Thetans? Any new videos, collaborations, or shows we should keep an eye out for?
T:
We’ve just released our 2nd EP (“Worldwide Vibes” – available on all prestige streaming platforms and the crap ones too). We are about to drop a blockbuster video for our song “Neverland Forever”… the next big show is at HUB on thứ 6, ngày 6 tháng 6… we have some insane, ball-tearing shows in the pipeline – watch this space!
E:
Finally, what advice or message would you give to young bands, both here in Vietnam and around the world?
T:
Do it! Music is a great way to express your unique take on the world and Vietnam is one of the best places in the world to do it. If you have something interesting to say or do, there is nothing stopping you. If anyone gives you shit – Thetans have got your back! PEACE!
Thetans are living the Vietnamese scene to the fullest. Their philosophy is rooted in community, openness, and pure DIY grit. Whether it’s the eclectic mix of sounds, the homegrown references in their lyrics, or the unfiltered live shows, they prove that punk isn’t about where you’re from; it’s about what you bring. Keep an eye on their upcoming shows and video drops, because it’s not just a vibe, it’s a movement.
