FAZI 法兹乐队 is Post-punk band from Xi’An who blends Eastern influences from their Chinese heritage with genres that grew naturally from their diverse musical inspirations. Their music has evolved over the years, from raw and gritty to more delicate yet powerful approach that explores deep themes such as birth, life, and death especially in their recent work Folding Story. the album not only reflects their personal growth but also significant life changes.
Before seeing the live performances that will surprises everyone at Maho Rasop Festival 2024. We invited them to talk about the beginnings of ‘The Fuzz’ to FAZI 法兹乐队 for how they has grown their terms of sound, musical style, even a personal life-milestone. As well as their perspective on the live house scene in China, Also the artists they’ve admired for years.
You started out as ‘The Fuzz’ in 2010. Can you share how the transition to FAZI 法兹乐队 came about?
We named ‘The Fuzz’ because it carries a sense of impact and a rough sound, which reflected the state of our music at that time. a U.S band called FUZZ (Ty Segall), so with overseas expansion in mind, we changed our name to a similar-sounding Chinese pinyin for our 2017 European tour. It’s pronounced ‘Fǎzī’.
How do you approach the blending of Traditional Chinese motifs with Post-Punk and Krautrock influences in your music? or what are you listening to at that time?
Growing up in China, we naturally carry an Eastern quality within us. Combined with the long-lasting influence of genres like Krautrock, Post-Punk, and Psychedelic music, this created the sound of FAZI 法兹乐队. We didn’t intentionally design anything specific; it all came together organically.
The bands we loved at that time (and we still love them) are CAN, Neu!, Beak>, Rovo, Radiohead, Swans, FUGAZI, black midi, Dawn of Midi, Tortoise, Nik Bärtsch’s Mobile, Follakzoid, Minami Deutsch, Controlled Bleeding and etc.
The albums that we just recently listening are “NO TITLE AS OF 13 FEBRUARY 2024 28,340 DEAD” by Godspeed You! Black Emperor, ‘The New Sound’ by Geordie Greep, ‘The Collective’ by Kim Gordon and ‘Forgiveness Is Yours’ by The Fat White Family.
Your sound has evolved significantly since your debut album ‘Running Horse’ to ‘Folding Story’ that often explores heavy themes such as “Birth, Life, and Death”. How would you describe the journey of your musical style and lyrics over the years?
I would described as raw and gritty, intense and angry at our early days, But for now, We’re trying to find a balance of delicacy and strength, focused on conveying the song’s inner emotions and creating a sense of imagery. Changes in our surroundings and the birth of our child have also been reasons for this transformation.
Because it resonates with many fans on a personal level, like you’ve described them with “There is anger, pain, sadness, and conflict. I let go of that past of myself, but I won’t forget” Then, What things in life that you appreciate the most? For being an artist and sharing it emotionally with many fans.
The existence of music. Because Music doesn’t just accompany, it also creates power to our true life reflections , love, and hope.
Have you ever seen 惘聞 Wang Wen and Jambinai [a Korean post-rock band] performed together? Because We saw them a few months ago and it’s kinda interesting how they use the traditional instruments like you use “Xiao flute” which turns out amazing! So I just want to know Which Chinese instruments that you would like to play on the show or appear on the next album in the near future?
We often watch Wang Wen’s performance.We haven’t seen Jambinai yet, but we’ve known them for a long time. We are open to using Chinese instruments, but only when it’s appropriate. ‘Xiao flute’ and ‘Suona’ are both instruments we like, and we hope to be inspired by them in our new songs.
Let’s talk about the Chinese rock music and Livehouse scene in your hometown China. After 14 years of making music and performing, What the difference that you’ve seen during the past to the current year? Or What are the good things about it – as a Chinese band that deserves more recognition from International audiences?
More and more excellent bands with different styles are emerging in China. They know what’s happening in the world and are trying to be a part of it. The sound equipment at China’s music festivals and live houses is absolutely top-notch, Many young people are starting to pay attention to indie music. They are just as passionate at live shows. Although it’s difficult, we’ve been striving to expand overseas, perform on bigger
What does it mean for FAZI 法兹乐队 to perform at the Maho Rasop Festival? Or Do you have any pre-show rituals that help you prepare for a performance?
Through overseas releases and tours, we have gradually gained international attention. From last year’s Ears up 、Busan Rock and Baybeats to this year’s participation in SXSW, Spring Wave, Clockenflap. Maho Rasop Festival even gave us a great performance slot, which is an honor. Before the show, we wear matching outfits, warm up individually, and also have a glass of whiskey (playful laugh)
Looking ahead, Are there any specific moments that you expect from the audiences? Especially during the performance at Maho Rasop Festival. And please leave a message for a fan that is excited to see you!
We’ve prepared a special set and visuals. So please come check out our performance! We’re ready, and you’ll be in for a surprise!
In case you missed:
White Lies Joins the Maho Rasop 2024 Final Lineup, Ready to Light Up the Entire Weekend with an Unforgettable Performance!
Afternoon Session with Jin-SALAD and Geordie Greep on his projection of The New Sound Album
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