Tag: Edm

Kygo Is Coming Back To Singapore With A Concert This November

For those of you who love your EDM, we’ve got good news for you.

That’s right, Kygo has announced that he will be performing at the Singapore Indoor Stadium this coming November for ONE NIGHT ONLY!

He will be making a stop in Singapore in the Asian leg of the Kids in Love Tour, with other stops in Bangkok, Manila, Tokyo, Seoul, and Jakarta.

Kygo, who first shot to fame with his remix of Ed Sheeran’s “I See Fire” and his single “Firestone”, recently released his latest album, Kids in Love, late 2017.

Ticket prices go from $98 to $348, excluding booking fee.

General ticket sales will go live on Sportshub ticketing channels on 23 July 2018.

In the meantime, here’re some music videos from the Kids in Love album so you don’t go crazy from the wait.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mv4MRmwXJMM

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3ChgRbqGi-E

Are you ready for Kygo?

Kygo ‘Kids in Love’ Tour Live In Singapore
Venue: Singapore Indoor Stadium
Date: 5 Nov 2018
Price: $98 – $348
Website

Also read The ‘Geek In The Pink’ Returns – Jason Mraz Set To Perform In S’pore This October

(Header Image Source: Kygo)

Ultra SG 2017 Was Lit – Offstage, We Got Up Close And Personal With Myrne, Rave Republic, And Sam Rui

For the party people, last weekend was THE long-awaited Ultra Music Festival Singapore 2017. Like last year, the 2-day electronic dance music festival in Singapore was ultra wet, ultra muddy, and ultra amazing!

EDM heavyweights Hardwell and Tiesto drew the largest crowd at the Main stage on Saturday, 10^th June. And while the drizzle that started off in the evening turned into a heavy downpour, it didn’t stop us from partying hard with Dash Berlin. It was a fantastic experience and a god-sent respite from the scorching heat.

At the Live stage, we caught Indonesian rapper Rich Chigga, and fellow home-grown talents DJ-producer Myrne, and singer-songwriter Sam Rui. Sitting between the two stages is the Resistance stage, which featured iconic UK duo Sasha & John Digweed and American house DJ-producer Jonny Vicious.

We had a serious dilemma on Day 2, because the line-ups were crazy – in a good way. From Nicky Romero, Steve Aoki, and Steve Angello headlining the Main stage, to Pendulum and KSHMR on Live stage at the other end, it’s hard to go for one set and not have #FOMO from passing up on the other big names.

Not forgetting local acts on the Live stage: home-boy ShiGGa Shay, DJ Duo Rave Republic, and singer-songwriter Jasmine Sokko.

While it didn’t rain on day 2, it was perfect weather for the party. Knife Party made a special appearance too – a big treat to the fans!

Of course there’s cake. #ultrasingapore #steveaoki #cakeme #umf #singapore #ultra

A post shared by • Sház♞샤즈니 • (@shazbyshaz) on Jun 11, 2017 at 6:37am PDT

Also, we finally got to witness Aoki’s famous cake-throwing ability.

Credit: Shazni

The lights and visuals were stunning. So were the sound and special effects. The free stuff like neon face and body paint, foil tattoos, photo print-outs, and goodie bags from several sponsor booths around the festival grounds added to the fun too (because we love free stuff).

As for food, drinks, and merchandise, payments had to be made via the RFID (radio frequency identification) tags on our wrist-tags. We had to top up our wrist tags via cash or credit card before buying anything – an upgrade from last year and it definitely made the ordering and collection process much easier and faster.

Another thing they ramped up this year was security. In wake of the rising terrorist-related attacks at major concerts and festivals, entrance bag checks were extremely thorough and we even got pat-downs. Kudos to the organisers and security for ensuring our safety!

We sent our DiscoverSG ambassadors down too, and this video wraps up the amazing time we had there.

We also scored the chance to chat with three home-grown artistes, Myrne, Rave Republic, and Sam Rui to get to know them a little better!

Myrne

Why “Myrne”?

Avicii was taken. I tried a few other names like Tiesto and Hardwell, but it didn’t really work out.

I was a big fan of Talking Heads. The front man David Byrne wrote a book “How Music Works”, and it was a very influential book. It really affected how I saw the music industry and my career. So I ‘stole’ his name and put in the ‘M’ from my name. It was Byrne, now it’s Myrne.

If you were not producing music, what would you be doing now?

I love writing and journalism reporting, and I wanted to be a war journalist. Then I realised the high-risk environments they work in, so I decided I’d do something a bit more stable.

But otherwise, if I wasn’t into music, I’d probably do something total opposite. Probably a professor at a school, or just surround myself with learning and writing opportunities.

If you could pick out just one track of yours that represents who you are as a DJ-Producer, what would it be?

It’ll be Tiger Blood. It really represents what I am interested in when making music – collaboration. I did the track with my friend Graves, who is based in Hawaii.

The elements in the track are very symbolic of how I approach music. It’s a bit more melodic, very high energy, and a lot of old school chords and influences from R&B and old hip hop. I think that’s the best interpretation of my kind of music.

What about now? Who are some of your favourite artistes?

I’m really inspired by everything local. By people who grew up the same way I did, under the same circumstances, and yet they’ve gone on to do really interesting things.

Local artistes like Jasmine Sokko, who’s a good friend of mine and came from the same JC as me. She’s been doing electronic music and from Singapore as well so it’s really inspiring.

Sam Rui – her voice is really great. Also, Gentle Bones.

Any tips for aspiring DJs?

Don’t drop out of school.

To get good at anything, you have to spend a lot of time on it. If you’re going to be out at a cybercafé or a club all night, you’re not going to get good at DJing or producing music. You have to make some very significant lifestyle changes to improve your craft.

Rave Republic

Credit: Rave Republic’s Facebook

How different is it to DJ together compared to doing it solo?

It’s completely different. We’re more reserved alone and we don’t go on the mic as much. We also have our own tracks, so we surprise each other quite a lot with tracks that we drop. Through that, we build up each other up. Whereas when we play alone, we tend to just play what we’re used to.

We complement each other and together, we have so much energy.

Working together, were there disagreements that both of you had to work out?

Surprisingly, we’ve never had an argument for the 3 years we’ve been working together. We usually see eye to eye and never really had big differences. We’re both really chill too, so we’re good.

Why “Rave Republic”?

We wanted to create a community. Like a republic, or nation kind of thing. And Rave Republic just came to us.

We asked a few people and we had a few names like Rave-olution and Rave Nation, but Rave Republic just stuck.

Any crazy fan girl stories?

A girl broke into our house once and played our PlayStation. It was very strange.

The girl walked into our Swedish house-mate’s room where he was sleeping with his girlfriend, and that girl just went: “Shhh, shhh, I’m gonna use your bathroom. Shhhh.”She was really drunk, and so was our house-mate. So the next morning, he was like: did I imagine all that?

Apparently she had broken in to use our bathroom, played our PlayStation, and left. It was very confusing and weird for all of us.

What are your future plans for Rave Republic?

We’ve only been playing in Asia this past 2 or 3 years. The next will definitely be global expansion. It is one of our biggest goals to put Asia in the global map.

If you think about Asia-based artistes, there’s pretty much no one who’s hit it big overseas. And I know we’re ang moh, but we’re proud to call ourselves Singaporeans. We’ve lived here for 7 and 9 years. We grew our act here and it is our home. We really want to take the sound and our inspiration that comes from living in Singapore and Asia, and export it world-wide. Hopefully, Rave Republic can be that act!

We’ve going to announce some big news that will help with our goal of global expansion soon!

Sam Rui

Credit: Sam Rui

Why “Sam Rui”?

My stage name kind of happened by accident.

When I was creating my Youtube channel back then, I typed my first name (Samantha) into the name box, and “Wong Sze Rui” into the surname box like an idiot. Youtube took the “Rui” as my last name, so “Samantha Rui” showed up. I liked the sound of it, and it wasn’t so far off from my actual name, so it just stuck. I cut it to Sam since everyone calls me Sam anyway.

If you were not producing music, what would you be doing now?

I don’t actually produce, I think there’s this common misconception that I produce my music since it’s electronic, but my producer is GROSSE. I write the music and lyrics, he does the actual production. I feel the need to clarify that because I’ve been asked this a couple times and I can’t take credit for something I didn’t do.

If I weren’t making or writing music, I’d be in university studying psychology. Before music, I really wanted to pursue clinical psychology and eventually take over my mom’s private practice – she’s a counsellour and linguistic therapist. I was straddling school and music but felt like I was doing both at a 50% capacity, so I decided to focus on music at this point. However, I still plan to finish my degree and pursue that.

How would you describe your music style? What would be the one track of yours that really represents who you are?

My sound changes between songs on the album, so I’d loosely say my music is alternative-electronic R&B. The one thing that ties the whole album together is what I like to think as “soul”. Again I say this loosely. I don’t mean “soul” as in a powerhouse vocal, or any sort of jazz influence.

It’s the honesty I put into my music – the way I write, the way I sing and even the way we craft the tone of the beat and lay down the vocal. For example in my album, the aim was to capture whatever I was feeling at the time – heartbreak, sadness, loneliness, clarity – and fit them into songs, like time capsules.

The one track I feel captures this best is the outro of the album – 20,000. It means a lot to me because I wrote this as sort of a summary, a letter to myself.

Outside of Ultra, where else can we catch you perform?

I’ve got a couple shows coming up later this year.

I also live stream on Instagram every once in a while, where I basically see how many songs I can play to the 1 jazz chord progression I know. If you request a song in the chat there that I know, I’ll probably sing it. Like a fun DIY acoustic show.

What are your future plans for Sam Rui?

For now it’s just putting this album out and seeing my baby finally come to life. I’ve been sitting on it so long and it’s my first big project. After it’s out I hope to do some local and regional shows.

I’d want to get back to writing and I really want to collaborate with other local and regional artists. Performing is one thing but creating the music is a whole other ball game and I haven’t done that in a while, so hopefully I get the chance to again in the tail end of this year.

We thank Myrne, Rave Republic, and Sam Rui for their time!

Also, read This Trippy Mirror Maze Will Have You Losing Yourself In Infinite Reflections And Endless Hallways.

(Header Image Source: Ultra Singapore)

10 Shiok Experiences And Eats To Turn Things Up A Notch The Second Half Of May [15-31 May]

The year seems to be flying by so quickly. In the blink of an eye, we’re already at the end of May!

Who says we have to wait till the June holidays to have fun? There are tons of things to do and new chow places to try out right now!

Think themed parties of all sorts, international artists on our shores, and healthy desserts! Whether you’re a party animal, fitness junkie or music guru, we’ve got your weekend plans sorted.

Here are 10 a-may-zing (get it?) activities you need to head down to ASAP!

Play & Discover

1. Urban Ventures Vol. 6

It’s no secret that eating is our national pastime–and we’re proud of it.

That’s why Urban Ventures has its latest edition centred around social dining experiences!

LOBELAB will be creating a social haven in Duxton Plain Park for 3 days this May.

It features live music, interactive artworks, an artisan’s market and a dance party. There are also interactive workshops, urban furniture and mouthwatering grub.

What we’re most excited for though, is the Pop-Up Library, Yin Yang Yoga Session and Upcycling Your T-Shirt Workshop!

It’s surely a journey into the more human, playful and friendly side of public spaces in Singapore.

Urban Ventures
Where: Duxton Plain Park, 1 Keong Saik Rd, Singapore 089140
When: 19 – 21 May, 4pm till late
Admission: Free
Website

2. Zouk 26th Anniversary

Zouk is turning 26!

To celebrate, they’re throwing a big birthday bash, and everyone’s invited.

Many new clubs have sprouted up recently, but good ol’ Zouk will always be a familiar spot for our best nights out.

Did you know Zouk is ranked no. 4 in the DJ Mag’s Top 100 Clubs in the World in 2017? The club has also attracted tons of internationally acclaimed DJs like Hardwell, Tiesto and Disclosure.

With complimentary entry for all, this is the party to let your hair down and go into celebration mode!

Zouk 26th Anniversary
Where: 3C River Valley Road, The Cannery, Singapore 179022
When: 18 May, 9pm – 2am
Contact no.: 6738 2988
Admission: Invite Only: 9pm; Open To Public: 11pm Onward; Free Entry For All (Non-Member)
Website

3. Fitness Fest

Fitness junkies, listen up!

Come together with other fitness and health lovers at this ultimate fitness festival.

4. Lily Singh – How To Be A Bawse

What up everyone, it’s your girl Superwoman!

If this rings a bell, you’ll be delighted to know that Lilly Singh is coming to Singapore!

[caption id="attachment_26171" align="aligncenter" width="946"] Image Credit: Kallang Theatre, 1 Stadium Walk, Singapore 397688
When: 24 May, 8pm
Contact no.: 6324 0764
Admission: $93 – $244
Website

5. Party Like Gatsby

Turn the nostalgia of the golden 20s into reality at this glamorous event.

Party Like Gatsby transports you into the famous novel ‘The Great Gatsby’.

‘The Great Gatsby’ centres on a young millionaire, Jay Gatsby. Jay is famous in his city for his mesmerising parties, hosted every weekend at his glamorous residence.

At Party Like Gatsby, spend an evening with him at a fantastic venue with stunning decorations. World-class entertainment includes burlesque, live music, as well as fire and aerial shows.

To date, over 40 cities in more than 10 countries have experienced its wild parties and intense shows. Finally, the party has reached the Pearl of the East–Singapore.

Be sure to come dressed elegantly, and get lost in the magic of the roaring twenties.

Party Like Gatsby
Where: Tanjong Beach Club, 120 Tanjong Beach Walk, Sentosa, Singapore 098942
When: May 26, 7pm – 2am
Website

6. Island Escape

This really is a month for parties, isn’t it?

There’s even this one off our shores, at St John’s Island!

Island Escape Ticket Office, 31 Marina Coastal Drive, Singapore 018988
When: 27 & 28 May, 12pm (Sat) – Sunset (Sun)
Admission: $55

Shop

7. Multiply. A Majestic Playground

Designers, makers and art lovers unite!

For 2 days only, Keepers and Straits Clan will provide the perfect platform for you to eat, drink, shop, and play.

[caption id="attachment_26163" align="aligncenter" width="2048"] Image Credit: Matter[/caption]

This is a one-time-only takeover of the historic and iconic New Majestic Hotel building.

Expect a pop-up of unique experiences through 30 rooms. Discover over 50 Singapore designers, artists, craftsmen, tattoo artists, chefs and mixologists.

This event is a tribute to the diverse inspirations that drive our community of artists, designers and makers that make up the creative soul of Singapore.

Remember to bring cash as many designers will be launching special edition capsules!

Drop by and experience something new, game-changing, and yet so close to home.

Multiply. A Majestic Playground
Where: New Majestic Hotel, 31-37 Bukit Pasoh Road, Singapore 089845
When: 27 & 28 May, 11am – 10pm

Music

8. Crystal Castles

Fusing low-res electronic noise and pop hooks, Crystal Castles finally brings its music to our shores.

The duo is best known for their energetic live shows and moody home-made productions.

[caption id="attachment_26170" align="aligncenter" width="1830"] Image Credit:

Crystal Castles
Where: ​*SCAPE The Ground Theatre, 2 Orchard Link, Singapore 237978
When: Tuesday 23 May 2017
Admission: Limited Early Bird – $70; Standard – $80; Doors – $90
We know all too well that 1 meal is sometimes not enough.

That’s why we were overjoyed when Dookki, which means 2 meals in Korean, opened its doors in Singapore!

[caption id="attachment_26166" align="aligncenter" width="1080"] Image Credit: Pholar[/caption]

This fun and “Full-filling” dining concept has steadily gained popularity within and out of Korea.

The first meal begins with the much loved, signature Tteokbokki dish. Choose from 8 types of air-flown Tteokbokki, and your preferred level of spiciness from 7 types of sauces.

The second meal adds rice, kimchi, sweet corn and other ingredients to create the all time favourite Kimchi fried rice–and all for $18.80.

We know where we’ll be stuffing our faces this weekend.

Dookki Singapore
Where: Suntec City, 3 Temasek Boulevard, #B1-107 (East Wing), Singapore 038984
Opening Hours: Mon-Sun: 11am – 10pm
Contact no.: 6266 2425
Website

10. Bojio Cafe

We didn’t expect to find this gem in the heart of Tampines.

The quirkily named cafe allows families and friends to jio (invite) each other for a healthy desserts!

[caption id="attachment_26165" align="aligncenter" width="900"] Image Credit: Kopitiam Bot[/caption]

Their homemade ice-creams, waffles and toasts are friendly to the very young, very old, as well as health-conscious friends.

The story behind its founding is all too relatable. Mr Chan, the star chef, and Mrs Chan’s picky family members love hunting for dessert spots all over Singapore.

Inspired to open a shop of their own, they created a DIY ice cream recipe, purchased the machinery and ingredients required, and never looked back.

All their hand-made ice-cream contains reduced sugar, children friendly milk/cream, no preservatives or colouring and only fresh fruits.

Don’t say bojio, and drop by for something sweet!

Bojio Cafe
Where: Westgate 3 Gateway Dr #02-28 Singapore 608532
Opening Hours: Sun – Thurs: 11.30am – 9.30pm; Fri – Sat: 11.30am – 10pm
Facebook

There’s so much to do this month that we can hardly catch our breath!

But we’re going to try to head to all these events anyway, and make our last bit of May as fun as possible. And we think you should too!

Also, read This Digital Playground Has No Slides Or Swings, But 5 Virtual Worlds To Lose Yourself In