Ugh. Summertime in Shanghai and livin' ain't all that easy. It's too darn hot one minute, sun showers the next. Luckily, Yuyintang have just installed a new air-con unit in the main room making it just that little bit less hot 'n' sticky. Live Bar? Well, they've got dirt cheap beers. And Soma Live? They seem to have melted away altogether for now. So here's where to get sweaty this weekend: more ›

This weekend is all about hero worship. Miserable Faith are the kind of metal band that causes diehard fans to get their name and logo tatooed across their bodies; Joyside's Bian Yuan sexy swagger is enough to make you weak at the knees; while Shanghai's own folk heroes Dan Shapiro of The Rogue Transmission and Pu Pu of The Mushrooms will also be in action building their own cult followings. Last weekend may have been a quiet one, but the next few days are anything but. more ›

There's not exactly tumbleweed blowing through Shanghai's live music venues this weekend, but it's fair to say that compared to the steady steam of bands we've had in recent months, this weekend seems a quiet one. Of course, Torturing Nurse's NOIShanghai show will ensure it is anything but, while SOMA are bringing together some of the city's brightest young bands tonight. more ›

The last few weeks have seen a steady stream of great gigs on the Shanghai live scene, something that is set to continue this weekend. Does this mean that the city needs more gig venues? We're not so sure, but there are a few signs of some more live options coming our way. First, a certain underground rehearsal studio has started putting on the occasional show and will host Torturing Nurse's 5 year anniversary in a few weeks. Second, Soma - the people behind the Indie Top label, which hosts bands such as Momo and The Mushrooms - are reported to be looking at opening a live venue as well. Of course, this is a sign of the increase in recent months in the number of talented local bands capable of putting on a great live show, but we'll wait to see whether such expansion is sustainable. more ›

It was only a matter of time. Yes, the traditional Midi Shanghai is on, off, on again, moved, all nonsense, season has started in earnest. Not only that, but it seems to be enjoying something of a vintage year. If all the claims and counter-claims are getting on your nerves, then we suggest you hit some of these shows this weekend and get Fucked Up*. We promise these shows aren't rumours. Honest. more ›

Things are showing no sign of slowing down live music-wise at the moment. The next few weeks are going to see the long awaited Hard Queen EP release party, Battles with PK14 and their new proteges and a welcome return for Re-TROS. Then there's the 5th anniversary of Shanghai's premier noise outfit Torturing Nurse to look forward to, which is bound to be crazy. Meanwhile a new album will see the always brilliant Hedgehog heading to Shanghai on April 11th. Not only that, next weekend will see Fucked Up in town. They're out in Nanjing this weekend at the Castle Bar if you fancy hopping on the high speed train to go see them but if you decide to wait until they hit Shanghai, there's plenty to keep you occupied here while you wait. more ›