Category: City Stories
-
Creating Joy Through Jazz: Getting to Know Cozy Jazz Office
Jazz has always been a genre built on creativity, spontaneity, and connection. For South Korean jazz trio Cozy Jazz Office, those qualities come to life by transforming familiar melodies into vibrant, energetic performances that feel both refreshing and inviting. Whether it’s a beloved movie soundtrack, an anime theme, a children’s…
-
Raw, Real, and Resonant: The Stories Behind Charleen Ong’s Songs
Music has a unique way of telling stories that words alone often cannot. For Filipino singer-songwriter Charleen Ong, every song is a reflection of genuine emotions, personal experiences, and the moments that shape who we are. With a sound that blends indie, folk, and OPM influences, she has built a…
-
Finding Their Sound: Hey Jace PH on Music, Storytelling, and the Journey Ahead
Some artists create songs to entertain, while others use music to tell stories that resonate long after the final note. Hey Jace PH has continued to build a place in the local independent music scene through heartfelt songwriting, memorable melodies, and a sound that blends pop and rock with genuine…
-
Creating Without Compromise: Nibi’s Independent Journey
From quiet introspection to expansive cinematic soundscapes, Nibi has carved out a distinctive place in Japan’s independent music scene. Formed in Tokyo in 2020 by vocalist Norie Takahashi and composer/producer Tomoya Omura, the electronic duo seamlessly blends ambient textures, alternative pop, and experimental electronic music into deeply emotional works that…
-
Creating with Authenticity: Kinessa’s Journey as an Independent Artist
Every artist has a story to tell, and for Kinessa, music has become the language through which she shares her emotions, experiences, and personal growth. With a passion for honest songwriting and heartfelt performances, she continues to carve out her own space in the independent music scene while connecting with…
-
From Beatmaker to Artist: MADELN’s Musical Journey
Thailand’s independent music scene continues to produce exciting and versatile artists, and MADELN is one of them. A talented singer-songwriter, producer, and beatmaker, MADELN creates music almost entirely on her own—from producing beats and writing lyrics to recording vocals, mixing,even mastering tracks from her bedroom. After years of producing music…
-
feat. A: Redefining Instrumental Music One Performance at a Time
From breathtaking anime and pop music arrangements to captivating performances that have reached audiences beyond Japan, feat. A is redefining what a classical instrumental trio can be. Consisting of pianist Hibiki (Bicky) Hoshino, violinist Eiki Okuda, and cellist Kentaro Yamamoto, the trio blends the elegance of classical instruments with the…
-
Creating Music with Purpose: YouKey’s Story
From Osaka, Japan, independent solo vocalist YouKey continues to win over listeners with his heartfelt music and genuine artistry. In this exclusive City Stories interview, he shares his musical journey, creative inspirations, memorable live performances, and his hopes for the future.Join us as we get to know the artist behind…
-
Behind the Darkness with Kokeshi!
Photo Credits: forzadelpassato Some bands don’t simply create music—they build an atmosphere that lingers long after the final note. Hailing from Japan, Kokeshi has carved out a distinctive place in the metal scene by fusing the intensity of blackgaze with haunting horror-inspired aesthetics and deeply emotional storytelling. With powerful performances…
-
Creating Music That Connects: Pet School’s Story
With a sound that blends heartfelt emotion, nostalgic melodies, and the spirit of the Filipino indie scene, Pet School has been steadily carving out its own identity through honest songwriting and memorable releases. Their music captures moments of vulnerability, youth, and self-discovery—resonating with listeners who find comfort in authenticity. In…
