Back by popular demand
Taiwan's Mayday are calling in on Hong Kong, writes Doretta Lau
Fans of Taiwanese rock band Mayday who missed their sell-out concerts in Hong Kong last year will have another chance to secure a seat when their Now-Here 2013 World Tour stops in the city for eight shows at the Coliseum, starting on May 4.
And although they're not short of good looks or catchy tunes, Mayday believe these aren't the most important elements of the experience. "The main attraction of our concerts is not the five of us, but the people who come to watch," said lead singer Ashin in an interview with Malaysian newspaper . "Without their participation, our concerts wouldn't be as amazing."
The band's current line-up is Ashin, Monster (guitar), Stone (guitar), Masa (bass), and Guan You on drums. Since signing with Rock Records in 1998, they have released eight studio albums and toured extensively.
Their most recent LP, (2011), was a critical success. The band won six honours at Taiwan's 2012 Golden Melody Awards: best song, best album, best band, best composer, best producer and best music arranger.
During the Golden Melody Awards ceremony, Ashin announced during the acceptance speech that the band planned to retire after releasing a 10th album.
"The Beatles released 10 albums over their career, so that thought has gradually grown in our hearts," he later told seemingly unaware that the Fab Four actually released 13 studio albums
In 2012, Mayday sold out two shows at the 80,000-seat Beijing National Stadium - also known as the Bird's Nest - in less than a day. Those who were unable to get tickets had to watch the concert streamed live on YouTube, where it can still be viewed.
During the Beijing shows, Mayday gave an electrifying hour-long performance, showcasing their mastery of the power ballad and their ability to connect with a live audience.
Still, fans may have a little longer to catch the band. Monster, seems to have had a change of heart about retirement. "If we are 60 and still playing together as a band, that will be the day we smile and tell ourselves we have made it," he said to .
Ashin acknowledges the importance of fan and industry support for their success. "We are so fortunate because many things have happened that were beyond our imagination. We thank everyone for giving us this chance."
Mayday, May 4-14, 8.15pm, Hong Kong Coliseum, 9 Cheong Wan Road, Hung Hom, HK$280-HK$980, Urbtix. Inquiries: 2734 9009
