BPM Ecstasy, Arte’s series on Chinese and Taiwanese techno culture
- 29/12/2023
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Techno music transcends borders, weaving a vibrant web that connects diverse cultures across the globe. In this symphony, although the Asian music scene is often overlooked, China and Taiwan are emerging as major players on the techno scene, bringing a unique and captivating energy. The documentary series “BPM Ecstasy“produced by Arte, goes behind the scenes of this musical revolution, exploring the techno wave sweeping across these dynamic territories. In this article, we invite you to discover what this series has in store for you.
BPM ecstasy the techno wave between Beijing and Taipei
BPM Ecstasy is a documentary series broadcast on Arte since November 14, 2023. This series of four episodes, each lasting around twenty minutes, is directed by journalist Olivier Richard. The series revolves around the Chinese and Taiwanese capitals of Beijing and Taipei respectively. In the aftermath of the pandemic that shook the world, the series introduces Chinese-born DJ and producer Sunk, who wants to give her first concert. However, she faces a real challenge due to the lack of crowds. She is joined by musician tamiX. On the other hand, in the Taiwanese capital, Taiwanese-born Elvis T., a pillar of techno in Beijing, sets out to discover the techno scene, which seems to be finding its feet again in Taipei, thanks to Sonia Calico.
BPM Ecstasy explores the electronic scenes of Beijing and Taipei, revealing a hitherto little-known aspect, with a thriving alternative culture, albeit one facing increasing restrictions. Taiwanese musicians, traditionally open to the outside world, are always drawn to the effervescence of the Chinese capital, fostering exchanges between the two cities. However, icy relations between the two states, aggravated by the Covid-19 pandemic (since 2020), hamper artistic practice. While Taiwanese artists suffer, their Beijing counterparts have no choice but to cope with their government’s increasingly restrictive policies. This documentary series offers an insight into a little-known alternative culture that truly deserves to be discovered.
The captivating faces and actors of BPM Ecstasy
At the heart of the “BPM Ecstasy” series, three singular artists emerge as charismatic figures who embody the vitality and diversity of the techno scene in China and Taiwan.
The interviews in the series offer a deep dive into the lives of these players.
These artists, SUNK, tamiX and Elvis T., are as concerned with their future as they are with the obstacles of the nightlife world and the evolution of the techno scene.
SUNK, of Chinese origin, is both DJ and producer.
By day, she works in digital marketing and music by night.
SUNK’s live DJ performance is contagious and always receives the multi-style concept.
She prefers melodic music and emotional connection, incorporating progressive, break and techno elements, and is equally adept at controlling the dance floor in house style.
She’s an artist whose music is steeped in ancient and mysterious Eastern culture，and she can always deftly integrate elements of Chinese legend with electroacoustic music.
In the series, she prepares to stage her first concert despite the challenge of a lackluster audience.
This is where tamiX comes in.
tamiX is one of Beijing’s most avant-garde musicians.
She provides SUNK with information on Beijing’s clubs.
Originally from Taipei, Elvis T. began his DJ career in 1998.
Since 2001, he has been producing electronic music and is recognized as a pioneer of electronic music production in China.
His techno/minimal tracks reflect his exquisite style.
BPM Ecstasy introduces this artist who, after several years, returns to his native Taipei to relaunch his career.
He realizes that, despite all the challenges, the techno scene is enjoying a renaissance.
The series also introduces Sonia Calico, DJ/Producer and pillar of Taipei’s techno scene.
The daily lives of these techno players, the series goes beyond a simple music documentary. It offers a human experience, connecting audiences with the aspirations, struggles and triumphs of these artists.
Episode-by-episode preview of “BPM Ecstasy
Episode 1
The first episode is in part an introduction to the documentary series.
It introduces Elvis T. who, after twelve years in Beijing, where he played a central role in the techno scene alongside “godfather” Weng Weng, returns to his native Taipei with the intention of relaunching his DJ career.
Artists SUNK and tamiX are also featured in this 19 min. episode.
Episode 2
In this second 20-minute episode, SUNK is hosted by Youdai, the legendary DJ who introduced generations of young Chinese to rock, techno and raves.
Together with Weng Weng, a major figure on the scene, they trace the challenges facing techno in Beijing.
Back in Taipei, Elvis T. visits Lujiachi, a musician renowned for his integrity, and also meets Tzusing, an artist whose performances are remarkable.
Episode 3
In Taipei, Elvis T. embarks on a journey in search of his origins in the company of pioneer Lim Giong, favorite composer of filmmaker Hou Hsiao-hsien.
He then discovers an unexpected aspect of Taiwanese identity with the aboriginal techno of Dungi Sapor.
In Beijing, SUNK explores Dada Bar and Aurora, two clubs that symbolize the resilience of the scene, while tamiX dives into the comics of Mongolian Lu Ming.
Episode 4
The fourth and final episode lasts just 18 minutes. In this episode, after a visit to Fruityspace, Beijing’s most renowned independent record store, SUNK offers its very first concert. Meanwhile, tamiX prepares for his first foreign outing since the Covid pandemic and meets punk band Pizzaface. In Taipei, Elvis T. organizes the launch of his new label before heading to Beijing to play for the first time since the pandemic began.
In conclusion, the episodes dedicated to China and Taiwan in the “BPM Ecstasy” series are much more than a simple musical exploration; they are a deep dive into the soul of these movements, offering a nuanced understanding of the cultural and social impact of techno music in these dynamic regions.
