Suggestions from an indie expert

Kang Myung-jin, the head of record label Duruduru Amc, shares her indie music recommendations.

Despot

If you are an ardent fan of heavy metal, Despot’s concert is where you should head.

“We do music because we are angry. We want to smash down everything when we sing and perform,” the heavy metal band once told local media.

The band often does concerts in clubs located near Hongik University such as Space Moon, in western Seoul.

10cm

The male duo 10cm recently returned to the music scene with its third studio album.

After the duo’s “Americano” was featured in many TV shows and commercials three years ago, 10cm has become one of the most well-known indie groups here along with Jang Kiha and the Faces.

Candid lyrics and a simple sound are 10cm’s signature style.

The duo will hold concerts in Seoul between Dec. 26 and 30 at M Theater at the Sejong Center for the Performing Arts, Gwanghwamun, central Seoul.

Amado LeeJaram Band

The five-member indie band also recently returned to the music scene. The band performs folk music but it stands out from others because of vocalist Lee Ja-ram, who also has a prolific career in pansori, or traditional narrative singing.

The band plans to hold concerts at Happy Theater, located in Daehangno, central Seoul from January 9 to 11.

Jang Kiha and the Faces

Often called the king of indie musicians, Jang Kiha and the Faces is one of the best indie bands in Korea.

According to Kang, indie bands are still struggling to find a foothold in Korea.

The six-member indie band will have concerts on Dec. 27 and 28 at Blue Square Samsung Card Hall located in Yongsan, central Seoul.

Unlike the sweet lyrics and light-hearted melodies of other local indie musicians, Jang Kiha and the Faces sings about unemployment, absurdity and other bitter aspects of the society around them.

BY SUNG SO-YOUNG

[so@joongang.co.kr]