Category: IndieBand
-
Hijack Hayley: The Story Behind the Name, Music & Journey
Hailing from Singapore, Hijack Hayley has built a reputation for their energetic live performances and powerful indie-rock sound. From winning the IGNITE! Band Auditions to performing at Baybeats and the Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix, the band has continued to make its mark on Singapore’s vibrant independent music scene. Now,…
-
SCYLLA (ID) — Finding Their Sound Through Modern Alternative Rock
SCYLLA is an Indonesian modern alternative-rock act, SCYLLA has continued developing its identity through recent releases including “Narcissistic,” “D.E.R.N.,” “Anxiety,” and their latest single “Reverti,” released in July 2026. For this edition of City Stories, we sit down with SCYLLA to talk about their musical journey, the evolution of their…
-
Girls Like Mystery: Songs, Stories, and Starting Again
Starting as a teacher band in Shanghai in 2010, Girls Like Mystery built a name for themselves in the local indie scene, playing 35 shows across China before disbanding in 2018. Years later, Kevin Wright returned to songwriting during COVID, reigniting Girls Like Mystery and opening a new chapter for…
-
Re:O: Where Japanese Roots Meet a New Alternative Sound
Photo Credit: Agnieszka RzeŚniowiecka (agaphoto_london) What began as a solo project in Japan has grown into a dynamic Japanese/British band creating a distinctive blend of alternative rock, dark pop, metal, and electronic influences. Re:O brings together Japanese-born vocalist and producer Rio with James on bass and lyrics, Jay on drums, and…
-
Half-Hour: Songs, Stories & Memories
Photo Credits: Fatti For the second and final week of the City Stories: Bands Edition finale, we sit down with the band for a candid conversation about their music, influences, songwriting, and journey. They share the real-life experiences behind their songs, including “Bumper Cars,” a track that became a meaningful…
-
No Way but Up: NRTHBND on Their Music, Brotherhood, and Dreams of Touring the World
Born and raised in Penang, Malaysia, NRTHBND is a pop punk band built on energy, honesty, friendship, and a genuine love for music. The four-piece consists of Paan on vocals and rhythm guitar, Ilms on lead guitar, Jaz on bass, and Jakey on drums. Formed in 2023 as a side…
-
Riffs, Passion, and Purpose: Meet Saint/Sinner
Heavy music, powerful riffs, and an unwavering passion for rock—that’s what defines Singapore-based heavy metal band Saint/Sinner. Since forming in 2023, the band has evolved from its classic hard rock roots into a groove-driven heavy metal act while staying true to the timeless influences that shaped their sound. In this…
-
Building Their Own Sound: Diskusi on Music, Inspiration, and What’s Next
Malaysia’s independent music scene continues to flourish with artists who aren’t afraid to tell honest stories through their music, and Diskusi is one of the bands helping shape that growing landscape. With a passion for creating meaningful songs and connecting with listeners through authentic expression, the band has been steadily…
-
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…
-
Behind the Music: Violets and Daffodils
Every artist has a story waiting to be told, and for this edition of City Stories, we sit down with one of the rising names in the local alternative music scene—Violets and Daffodils. Known for their heartfelt songwriting, energetic performances, and tracks such as Palayain, Cindy, and The Invite, the…
Welcome to City Writer 