Alright, people: time to break out the festival gear and get ready for another amazing summer of music. Strawberry Music Festival has just announced the dates for Beijing (May 1- May 3). As usual, you can expect the cream of the local crop along with a few international heavy hitters bringing the noise for three straight days. We’re still waiting for confirmation on the specific line-up, but at least you can mark it on your calendar and make plans to attend this epic musical event.

JUE Festival is still going strong this weekend, with power pop legend Paul Collins slaying the crowd at Yugong Yishan this Saturday, and a special Douban Showcase at XP featuring some of Beijing’s hottest rising stars.   

Last night if you were in the know, you would have gone to Dada to catch the riveting performance by Shanghai’s AM-444. I couldn’t recommend this band enough. Total Sade vibes here, that are extremely sultry and smooth and perfect for deep bedroom listening, if you catch my drift. Check out their new music video, so you can discover the talent of this remarkable duo.

Finally, local space wavers Alpine Decline are embarking on an epic month long tour of China, beginning on Friday. With the new album Go Big Shadow City in hand, don’t hesitate to check them out. Truly one of the best acts operating in the capital. They will be returning to Beijing on April 19 for their album release party with AV Okubo. I had the pleasure of interviewing this dynamic duo this week and I am really excited about sharing it with you in the April issue of the Beijinger. There, they will speak about their new album and the joys and pitfalls of touring with child.

More music events worth your time and money:

 

Photo: Modern Sky