Ballads of East and West

Andy Best, co-author of the prominent music blog Kungfuology, thought that the current lack of communication between the scenes was not just about the method of promotion, but the style of shows as well.

“Bigger Chinese bands will play a show with one guest who plays music in a similar style. Audiences come because they are fans of that band, not necessarily for a party,” he says. “Foreigners in Shanghai tend to like the party atmosphere with many different types of bands and DJs playing all night long.”

Wei agrees, saying, “Foreign audiences tend to have wider tastes. Chinese audiences want to see a band that they have an emotional connection with,” before going on to cite economics’ important role in determining tastes and shaping the way that shows are promoted, saying foreigners were less price conscious.

Dostav Dixit, a former booking and promotions manager for a live house in Wuhan says, “Local kids will always go to selective shows if it is a big name, but I don't think a normal Chinese college kid can afford to spend RMB 300-400 on shows every month.”

The reason for the current division of Shanghai’s music communities proves to be a complex one and concerning their show, both Offenther and Wei have modest expectations. “I’ll be happy if we get three new Chinese fans of some of these local foreign bands,” Offenther says. Wei had similar sentiments, saying, “I hope that this can be a good start to further collaborations.”

9.30pm. 7 January. +1 RMB. Yuyintang. 851 Kaixuan Lu, near Yan’an Lu. Tel: 5237 8662. Web: www.yuyintang.org