2024 in the bag: an A-Z by Mixmag Asia

As the year draws to a close, the Mixmag Asia team reflects on the standout moments that defined Asia’s scene in 2024. This year saw the rise of new trends, movements, and creative forces that touched everything from music and fashion to wellness and technology.

Whether it was Cambodia’s first-ever community radio station amplifying local voices, a certain genre that ramped up from Filipino internet cafes to global TikTok stardom or new vinyl-digging escapades in New Delhi, Asia’s pulse has never felt stronger.

Add to that DJ Harvey’s newest nightclub, Erykah Badu’s soul-soothing session in Bali and Larry Heard’s South Korean debut—it’s safe to say this was a year of milestones that underline the region’s growing influence on the global stage.

Here’s the thing, though: 2024 wasn’t just about the big names and iconic moments. It was about the heart and hustle behind it all. With collectives celebrating milestone anniversaries, amazing renditions of classic cuts and venues setting new standards for immersive experiences, the entire year was a mosaic of movements that transformed the way we think about the underground culture in Asia.

Even the (literally) small but significant—like a special Mixmag Asia collab drop that pushed for ear-health awareness among ravers—demonstrated how the scene is redefining the way we interact with self-care.

Ready to relive the moments that defined the year? Dive into our list of standout stories, handpicked by the Mixmag Asia team.

Yes, you read that right. Atsuo the Pineapple Donkey—a quirky name bringing synth-laden beats and punk energy to electronic music. With a can of baked beans on stage and a no-rules style, he’s winning over fans worldwide, from Europe’s festivals to Japan’s ACiD OPEN AIR. Unfiltered, unexpected, and unforgettable.

Read the full article here.

Budots is pure Filipino energy: wild, quirky, and unstoppable. Born in Davao’s gritty internet cafes, it's a DIY blend of 140 BPM beats, jeepney horns, animal sounds, and raw humour. DJ Love, the genre’s fearless leader, has taken Budots from street parties to TikTok stardom. Especially this past year, this high-octane, offbeat genre is pushing boundaries with bomb-tek’s harder beats, capturing hearts worldwide with its mischievous spirit and infectious rhythm.

Read the full article here.

Cambodia’s music scene hit new heights this August with the launch of its own grassroots community radio, founded by Myro Bytz and Rowan Steele. The debut broadcast, set on a rooftop overlooking the Mekong, featured homegrown talent Kaza, plus Steele and Mongolian guest Biliguudei. Open to public sessions at Chew & Bash, this scenic radio project promises to spotlight Cambodia’s unique sounds and elevate its local artists onto the global stage.

Read the full article here.

In a 2024 highlight for Asia’s vinyl scene, Digging In India - Vinyl Records & Collectibles opened its doors in New Delhi, serving up an unmissable trove of records spanning everything from Desi disco to Japanese city pop. With rare finds, nostalgia-packed decor, and even a designer cake studio next door, it’s the ultimate cultural dig spot.

Read the full article here.

For the first time in Bangkok and returning to Hong Kong since 2016, London-based DJ and producer Elijah invited local artists to reimagine creativity in the digital age. In addition to his eye-opening talks, both sessions were also filled with engaging questions where attendees also contributed their own Yellow Squares to the discussion.

Read the full article here.

Celebrating 15 years of bass-fueled brilliance, Krunk took Asia’s underground by storm with a four-city India tour in May. Led by Sohail Arora, this Mumbai-born powerhouse has evolved from basement beats to a full-blown movement, staying true to art over trends. With a fierce roster and a mission to boost Asian talent, Krunk’s story is definitely one for the books in 2024.

Read the full article here.

In a game-changing move for Asia's techno scene, Shaun Moses became the first Indian artist to sign with Secret Cinema’s Gem Agency, joining heavyweights like Enrico Sangiuliano and Bart Skils. “It feels surreal… to see this dream finally see the light of day,” the Goa native told us. This isn’t just a win for him, individually; it's a bold step toward more diverse voices in the global electronic music game.

Read the full article here.

This year, Mixmag Asia teamed up with Hears to drop a game-changing accessory for music lovers—exclusive, limited-edition earplugs that protect your hearing without compromising on sound. With only 100 pairs available globally, these sleek, jet-black earplugs combine cutting-edge noise reduction, comfort, and style. The ultimate clubbing and festival essential, whoever the headliner.

Read the full article here.

It’s been a mix of innovation and introspection for the industry’s movers and shakers. TikTok expanded its #ElectronicMusic hub globally, giving electronic artists, DJs, and producers a bigger stage to shine. Meanwhile, DJ and mentor Rummy Sharma’s The Bootcamp Goa lit up Berlin's Rave The Planet, bringing Indian talent to the forefront at a 380,000-strong event celebrating Berlin Techno's UNESCO status. And while TikTok added South Korea’s Melon to its music discovery arsenal, it said goodbye to its standalone music service. On a more sobering note, DJ revenue-sharing tool Aslice shut down due to financial strain and lack of support from big-name DJs. On the brighter side, Outdustry’s big buyout by Virgin Music Group signals a new era, empowering Asian artists with a global push. And to cap it all, Family of East launched a database dedicated to Asian DJs, producers, and artists, reshaping representation in the music industry—because the future of music needs more than just a cameo from a big name.

Kuala Lumpur-based crew Jambu Jambu Asia hit a major milestone in September, throwing down a packed anniversary bash with their tenth edition of The Landing. The unconventional helipad venue, once underutilised, has been transformed into one of the city's most electrifying party spots, thanks to Jambu’s signature events. Founder Mister Rodrigo (Tristan Smeeton) shared with us: “We're definitely looking at taking Jambu Internationally as one of our main focuses.”

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DJ Harvey’s month-long residency at Bali's new hotspot, Klymax, set the dance floor ablaze, showcasing a venue crafted with elite precision. Co-designed by Harvey himself alongside Potato Head, Klymax features a JBL sound system so crisp it pulls you into every beat without overpowering – a signature Harvey touch. His hand in creating this sonic playground ensures music, style, and storytelling flow effortlessly, making Klymax a must-visit for those who haven’t. (PS: There’s still time to plan your NYE festivities!).

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In a landmark night for Hongdae’s vibrant music scene, Larry Heard aka Mr. Fingers made his highly anticipated Korean debut at Modeci. His marathon set, blending soulful house with mesmerising frequencies, captivated the crowd until dawn. Earlier, in an exclusive chat, the house music pioneer shared his thoughts on the evolving landscape of music, the challenges of standing out in today’s digital age, and his journey as a producer who defines what "deep house" truly means. His advice to producers? "Learn something about music. Don’t just show up with a vivid imagination."

Read the full article here.

Asia definitely got a fresh dose of merch drops this year. Indonesia’s Ardhira Putra brought his VAKANSI series to Singapore, packing 80s-inspired beach nostalgia into vibrant designs, while Bali’s Desa Potato Head unveiled eco-friendly, music-infused wearables that champion sustainability, with Lisa Yamai’s touch, blending "Good Times, Do Good" in every stitch. Meanwhile, Mumbai’s Milkman collective dropped a fierce SS24 football-inspired capsule, riding a global streetwear wave. Let’s not forget THÜR’s edgy, graffiti-branded eyewear that debuted at ComplexCon, and Kijima Takayuki’s tribute to Ryuichi Sakamoto with an elegantly wrinkled work cap.

And, of course, who could forget the US$3,000 festival wristband…

An experience as grounding as it was uplifting. Erykah Badu brought her soulful magic to Bali in 2024, co-curating Merasa at Potato Head Bali for a week-long wellness experience. Kicking off the event with a live performance, the neo-soul legend guided attendees through a transformative journey of self-discovery, blending music, mindfulness, and cultural wisdom. "Through music, we become bonded with one another," she shared, underscoring her vision of unity and connection. Badu’s influence, alongside indigenous practitioners, made Merasa a standout moment in the region’s music and wellness scene.

Read the full article here.

The Japanese city of Osaka was definitely churning out its fair share of stories this year. From the pro-Palestine solidarity parties driven by Kansai Youth Movement for Change (KYMC) to the inclusive vibes of AMAPINIGHT which sprung out of Osaka, spreading amapiano fever and breaking barriers for gender, race, and sexuality on the dancefloor, these events reshaped the country’s nightlife with purpose. And let’s not forget FULLHOUSE—the city’s rising club collective who celebrated five years with international nods and an unforgettable anniversary line-up.

Turning its industrial bones into a multi-sensory music paradise, Singapore’s iconic Pasir Panjang Power Station set a fierce new standard for events in 2024 thanks to sessions. With Kiasmos lighting up the main stage and every corner offering something unexpected—from tarot readings to gourmet burgers—it was a night where industrial charm met cutting-edge sound.

See images from the event here.

From experimental Indonesian punk-electronica to Vietnam's infectious budots, Southeast Asia is unapologetically shaping its own queer rave identity, pushing back against Western dominance with vibrant, inclusive beats. By blending local rhythms with high-energy genres, these underground movements are crafting spaces for self-expression amidst legal challenges and societal resistance. Our Singapore-based friends, Bussy Temple, take the lead on this piece, highlighting how Southeast Asia’s queer rave scenes have taken a bold step forward and are redefining the region's electronic soundscape.

Read the full article here.

Jakarta collective Radio Rumah Oma (RRO) and audio mastermind Iwan Arjanto dropped their limited-edition speakers in February, redefining how we experience music in 2024. These beauties blend audio excellence and sleek design, featuring customisable engravings and two stunning colour options. Sound’s never looked so good—affordable, functional, and built to turn heads.

Read the full article here.

Taiwan's newest mix series, SUNSET CHASER, debuted in October, featuring DJs dropping tunes in truly offbeat local settings. Helmed by Scott Noise and 4000, the first season served up pure, unfiltered vibes. Picture this: high-energy DJ sets in shrimp fishing ponds, comic book shops, BB gun stores, and even massage parlours. Stay tuned for season 2!

Read the full article here.

In March, British producer Kuljit Bhamra MBE dropped the world's first electronic tabla, Tabla Touch, revolutionising Indian drumming like never before. With instant tuning and a built-in orchestra of sounds, it’s a game-changer for musicians tired of lugging 38kgs of traditional gear. Unveiled in Mumbai, this techy tabla makes mastering ancient rhythms a whole lot easier—without sacrificing authenticity.

Read the full article here.

It may not be news straight out of Asia, but who are we to deny this year’s “Brat summer”? From video set prop to global impact, the two turned their Guess video’s avalanche of 10,000 pieces of unused underwear into a massive donation for charity. Instead of letting the bras and underwear pile up as just set decor, they sent them to I Support The Girls, a nonprofit providing essential items to people experiencing homelessness worldwide.

Read the full article here.

Set in Hanoi’s former Angolan embassy, Savage offers a raw, multi-floor experience: the techno-focused Red Cube, the homey Anteroom, and a rooftop for sunrise sessions. The venue’s anniversary weekend in Hanoi was a high-voltage tribute to community and collaboration, packed with top-notch regional talent and an excited crowd, including our own Henry Cooper, who spoke with Ouissam about Savage’s journey from an expat-centric space to a diverse, local-driven powerhouse.

Read the full article here.

Thailand's cannabis policy saw a whirlwind of shifts as the new government cracked down on recreational use. Early on, health officials pushed for stricter regulations, citing health costs and youth addiction concerns, and Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin moved to reclassify cannabis as a narcotic. But, amid mounting pressure from the cannabis industry and stakeholders, he then backtracked on the outright ban, instead instructing a draft bill focused on regulated medical use. This back-and-forth left the industry—and its investors—wondering if Thailand’s cannabis boom will soar or be snuffed out in legislative limbo…

This year Xiaolin reminded us just how groovy ‘80s Cantonese classics can be as she breathed fresh life into beloved anthems while honouring their original charm. First was the vinyl debut with a refined take on Anita Mui’s rendition of ‘Plastic Love’ that came out in May. Then in September, the follow-up was a dreamy reinterpretation of Prudence Liew’s ‘Afterwards’. Xiaolin’s ‘canto series’ bridges nostalgia and innovation with analogue warmth and raw production; nott only captivating our ears but also introducing Hong Kong’s cultural gems to new audiences.

Known primarily for its classical Javanese arts and spiritual heritage, Yogyakarta is now Indonesia’s unlikely epicenter of experimental noise music, as Omni’s Adam Wright explains. The city’s scene was highlighted in the documentary Noise is Serious Shit! capturing its DIY spirit and punk roots. As part of its Asia and Europe tour, the film screened at Hong Kong’s Bound Kowloon in March, complete with live performances by standout noise artists Indra Menus, Detroak, and Black Neutron.

Read the full article here.

Here they are; sleep hacks for night owls. In a world where late nights are the norm, it’s no wonder most of us are now being urged to catch some much-needed Zs. From designing sleep rituals to decoding dreams, this guide from Livy Von Goh is all about harnessing rest for creative fuel. Whether it’s playlists for pre-snooze vibes or resetting rhythms, now’s the perfect time to get acquainted with ways to wind down.

Read the full article here.


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