Fresh from appearances at both local and overseas festivals, hotly tipped newcomers Nothing None are forging their own nu-metal path while seeking greater support for themselves and the scene in general. Vocalist Lewis Cheung Chi-ho (aka Ho Chai), bassist Pong Chu Ming-pong, drummer Xavier Poon Kwok-fai and guitarists Lovin Lo Ho-bung and Dave Lee Wai have been together for about 15 months. Originally named One Night, the band also enjoyed a stint backing pop starlet Yennis Cheung before breaking out on their own. 'We got the name Nothing None simply by reusing the letters from One Night so as to separate us from our previous period and make a new start as a nu-metal band,' frontman Ho Chai says. 'Our sound basically follows the concept of nu-metal, although it also incorporates the feeling of melodic metal and some pop-rock elements. It is a rhythm-based music pattern - we sing, roar and rap with less emphasis on guitar solos.' Their impressive three-track demo EP was completed this month. 'It will be included on an upcoming compilation CD also featuring invited bands from the US, Malaysia, Japan and China,' he says. Nothing None use music as a release from what they see is wrong with the world, Ho Chai says. 'Our lyrics mainly focus on negative aspects of our lives, such as the lies and betrayals we have experienced.' But they try and take that negativity to create something positive, he says. The band - who were local finalists in the World Battle of the Bands contest and opened the recent Rockit Festival in Victoria Park - have found their subject matter has struck a chord with hardcore fans. A relatively new outfit, Nothing None have already been creating waves beyond the shores of Hong Kong. Selected to play this summer's Formoz Festival in Taipei, as well as making appearances on the mainland, the group has found overseas markets more accessible and supportive of start-up acts. 'Independent labels here don't have much support from the government. There's fewer allowances and grants for renting venues and organising shows,' Ho Chai says. 'The general public's music sense is cultivated by the recommendations of the media. Few people like to search for new music through other channels by themselves. 'Nu-metal bands have been in Hong Kong for years, although the sound hasn't really registered as the main labels won't support it, due to the low income return. You have to go to indie shows if you want to find it.' But this could change with a little creativity, Ho Chai says. 'The media should do more to offer open space for listeners to absorb new music and cultivate an interest in different music. People should generally enhance their ability to accept new music.' In the meantime, Nothing None are focusing on their own goals. 'We plan to write and accumulate more original music and record an album in Taiwan next year. Beyond that, we just want to play music everywhere - at festivals in different countries. Of course, we hope we'll be financially supported by our records one day.' Nothing None, tomorrow, 7pm, Warehouse, 116 Aberdeen Main Rd, Aberdeen, $40 (members), $50 (others). Inquiries: 9013 0470 or www.nothingnone.com
