Band Bio: Public Kingdom for Teens (PK-14)

This being the first (hopefully many more comin') quickie band profiles, Shanghaiist chose one of the bands we respect the most. A band with name steeped in adolescences nostalgia, with music that has some of the most mature lyrics you will hear in China (and OMG, they, like totally sing in Chinese). Public Kingdom for Teens, aka PK-14, is a band that has been labeled everything from punk to progressive rock, but we prefer to categorize them under the broad banner of alternative rock.

Formed in 1997, singer/song writer Yang Haisong is the only original member left, their current lineup that includes Xu Bo, Shi Xudong and Swede' Jonathan Leijonhufvud.

Early in 2007 the band took a 5 month hiatus to work on personal projects, getting back together just before the Midi festival this year. Since then they have been playing every chance they get with shows in Wuhan, Nanjing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Hong Kong and Beijing. Currently they are also working on material for their 4th LP (their 3rd album really kicks ass!!) due out early next year. For those foolish enough not to have caught their two shows in Shanghai, look for them in Beijing where they play regular gigs at venues across town.

Upcoming shows
Sept 5 and 8, 8pm at the Beijing D22 Club
Check out video of past action at D22 below!

For more information (you know you want it...bad!) check out PK-14 at these webpages -
www.myspace.com/pk14
www.pk14.com

Photo of PK-14 at the ENO shop on Changle Lu