Industry Leaders Hail MEMI, 1300, Lur:, and WUTU as Breakout Stars
September 2024, Brisbane, Australia — Split Works' Asian Music Takeover at BIGSOUND 2024 and the Concrete & Grass: Outpost Brisbane event at The Tivoli delivered two epic nights, showcasing rising stars from China, South Korea, Taiwan, and Malaysia. The events drew praise from industry heavyweights and underscored Split Works' commitment to the diverse and burgeoning Asian music scenes.
Reflecting on the success of the events, Archie Hamilton, Managing Director of Split Works, said: "These showcases were an incredible testament to the power of alternative and indie Asian music, not only in Australia but on a global scale. Our ability to bring 13 artists and a dedicated team of 150 people to SXSW 2023 and now deliver such inpactful performances in Brisbane shows the significant, yet under-served, community of Asian music fans across Australia. While major promoters often focus on K-pop, J-pop, and C-pop, Split Works is proving that the emerging indie and alternative scenes have a substantial and passionate audience here."
Sam Dowson, Music Program Manager for DarkLab, commented: "I was blown away by the Split Works Asian Music Takeover. Lur: and WUTU were real standouts for me—their raw, unexpected sound really hit hard and left a lasting impression. I'd absolutely love to see these bands tour, and I think they'd be incredible here in Hobart. Their energy and creativity would really connect with local audiences, and I'm excited about the possibility of getting them down here."
Adam Nealon from Secretly Group added, "Dust and Bel Airs were highlights, but oddly enough, 1300 really stole my heart at the Split Works showcase. Obsessed with their energy."
Charlotte Herron, Senior Manager, Label Management AUS & NZ, shared: "The Split Works showcase at BIGSOUND was a standout event. The quality of the musical talent and the variety of genres and performances was amazing."
Ruth Gardner, 4ZZZ Board Member, Owner / Operator The Cave Inn also contributed with "MEMI brought something very real to The Tivoli. She's original, powerful and can seriously play a guitar. Watching her play, its clear she's got that rate mix of raw energy and musicianship. The crowd felt it and so did I."
The performances at both showcases were nothing short of remarkable. MEMI stunned the audience with her guitar prowess, while Lunadira brought the house down with a soulful cover of Fleetwood Mac's "Dreams." 1300 unleashed a high-energy set that left attendees buzzing, and Lur: delivered a standout performance that captivated the room. Loft Beach also impressed with their dynamic presence on stage, and B E N N kept the party going with his innovative DJ set.
These events reaffirmed Split Works' mission to bring diverse and cutting-edge Asian talent to global audiences. As these artists gain traction, their influence is set to expand well beyond Australia.
