Local rockers are flocking to the mainland to gain a footing in a much larger market.
Following in the footsteps of former Beyond guitarist Paul Wong Kwun-chung and drummer Yip Sai-wing, bassist Steve Wong Ka-keung has released his third solo album, Tata.
His first Mandarin release, this is a rich collection of rock and pop tunes. The album is a return to form after his hugely disappointing solo debut Be Right Back in 2002 and the slightly better Picasso Horses three years ago.
Dream, Red Chamber boasts meaningful and imagery-rich lyrics by Vincent Fang. The song combines rock with Chinese music and an impressive guitar solo. Other highlights include Where Will I Find Myself Tonight, a jazzy ballad, and Tears from a Faraway Place, a powerful statement about the plight of orphans in developing countries.
The album includes four Cantonese numbers for Canto-pop fans. The Perfect Match portrays Wong's lifelong love affair with rock 'n' roll, while Nezha Returns Home reflects Wong's feelings as a first-time father.
Wong has created a new music style that conforms to mainstream aesthetics. Tata is his best solo effort to date.