Artists exciting us in 2024 / May

As we've proudly mentioned before, the Asian scene is thriving. Among the plethora of talent spread across the region and diaspora, we keep on excitedly unearthing more and more names that may not be too familiar to some but are definitely worth your attention.

In the spirit of sharing, Mixmag Asia will be featuring a number of arguably under-the-radar artists who are currently making exciting noise in — and freshly out of — their respective scenes.

Prepare to expand your playlists.

Based in Tokyo, YANNY brings a distinct musical style and vibrant energy to his various roles, including organising the grassroots underground event series KILLIAN. With a mission to connect different artists in his city, he’s invited names such as QUELZA, Philippa Pacho of positivesource, Blue Hour, ¥Ø

When we discovered Hizuo’s music in 2022, the first thought that came to mind was “prodigy”. After all, the producer was just eighteen years old that year. In the short time that has passed since, the Japanese artist has released a slew of imaginative, exciting, and brilliantly produced tracks across tech house, electro, jungle, and more. Highlights include his ‘Funk Universe’ EP on Stones Taro’s NC4K label and a sensational breaks-into-jungle remix of ‘Informal Sense & Momentum’ by NirBorna via TREKKIE TRAX. All this while managing his own imprint SELVA SOUNDS, making tunes with collaborator DubGuy as Uh-U!, and dropping a steady stream of quality self-releases via Bandcamp. Mark our words, Hizuo is going places.

Howie Lee represents the cutting-edge of China’s underground scene and has been doing so since 2010. His signature sound is a mind-blowing fusion of the ancient and the futuristic, merging folk traditions with experimental soundscapes and the global language of trap, bass, and techno. As the co-founder of Do Hits, a Beijing-based club night and record label, Lee has significantly shaped the Chinese electronic music landscape with innovative releases that spotlight experimental and boundary-pushing artists. His exciting live performances and innovative sound have garnered international attention — including one Snoop Lion.

Emanating a humble personality and soul-driven music at any given time, Pam Anantr is a fresh ounce of sonic gold amongst the rapidly changing and diverse landscape of Thailand club and music scene. House and disco stalwarts, Transport, recently signed her on as a resident for their popular, groove-heavy parties. She's also just become a resident at Bangkok's Beamcube. With Europe and Asia tour plans in the pipeline, we expect to hear more from this unwavering talent who exudes old soul sensibilities through delectable taste, and a penchant for keeping things steady. An inside scoop tells us she'll be opening a listening bar concept in the heart of Bangkok very soon. Keep your eyes and ears ripe for Pam Anantr.

Fresh from her extensive Asia tour spanning several months, we were lucky enough to see Hainafromchina in Taipei and her energy is nothing short of electric. Initially captivated by trance, donk, and happy hardcore, she has since absorbed a diverse array of influences from her time in Asia, including manyao, budots, Thai beats, and funkot. On top of this, she spearheads Normie Corporation, championing QTBIPOC performers and eagerly gearing up for their highly anticipated pride festival later this year, alongside an exciting collaboration with Eastern Margins on the horizon. As she prepares to head off on tours across Europe and the US, she consistently shows why she’s worthy of the weird and wonderful buzz she’s making across the globe.

Discover more about artists from Asia and the Asian diaspora on our Instagram and by subscribing to our Newsletter!