Music: Khana Bierbood – Strangers from the far east​

It has been a day of fascinating discovery today. Amsterdam-based label Guruguru Brain focus on underground music in Asia. Having released Kikagaku Moyo’s critically acclaimed 2018 album Masana Temples, the label is back with a new release from a Thai quintet named Khana Bierbood. Strangers from the far east is their excellent debut album, a true marriage between east and west in terms of sound and influence.

The record has dense psychedelic rhythms that jump out with infectious energy, with a dynamism and eclecticism that make it a truly exceptional body of work. The sweet guitar riffs on “Bangsaen Lady” and “Jeanmaryn” are complemented by heavy basslines that provide an instantaneous grooves that make you want to get up and dance. I can imagine the energy this band emits when performing live. The heavier tracks like “Rustic Song” and “Bad Trip” let out a punk-heavy vibe with the manic energy and electrifying vocal performances from the lead singer. The record is produced by Go Kurosawa from Kikagaku Moyo, which makes sense considering the energetic performances from each member pouring their heart and soul out on record. You can really hear it. They have been together since 2012 after all, but for all of their efforts and chemistry to materialise so effortlessly on record is something to be commended. The record musically varies between traditional Thai music, seventies surfer rock and psychedelic soul. And if that sounds intriguing to you, you’re in for a treat!

Listen to Khana Bierbood’s debut album Strangers from the far east below via Bandcamp, and don’t forget to support! Released via Guruguru Brain.