Beijing Live Music Quickslants: AIDS Charity ROCKS, Gipsy Jazz, East Meets West and lots of unknowns

I had just about written off this week as a moderately crappy one as far as live music goes in Beijing and then i decided to check douban again.. good thing i did because it’s a hell of a lot more interesting than I expected at first. 2 shows at Mao Live stand out as being extremely intriguing because I have never herd any of the names on the bill… and usually I would have! Alright, let’s get to it!

Thursday December 2:

New Generation of Beijing Rock @ Mao Live:
Here we go with the bands I’ve never heard off: Morning Sir, Noise Source, Point.8, GAO & Yes No Break. I guess one or two of these guys might end up being good but then again, I have no idea. I’d go just for the curiosity factor.

Manouche Gipsy Jazz @ Jianghu:
This one is a much better bet as far a guaranteed good gig. Vincent, guitar player on manouche, has been playing with mademoiselle for a long time now and knows his shit. This should be one hell of a cool little show with a lot of wine, some good guitar playing and just fun!

Friday December 3:

AIDS benefit @ jianghu:
I’ve been listening to the CD all day and it’s a great sampler of what Beijing has to offer. All benefits from the show will go to PTE and we’ll have performances by Nakoma, Zhang S’an and Pink chimney amongst others. Even if you’re not planning on staying, stop by and grab a CD… it’s a good cause!

Saturday December 4:

Wu Fei and Abigail Washburn @ Capital M:
How’s that for a surprise? did you ever think Capital M would be mentioned for a gig on ‘daze? Chinese siren and Gu Zheng queen, Wu Fei, teams up with Abigail Washburn for an afternoon of graceful magical sounds. Capital M, by Qianmen, around 4:00 p.m.

Sunday December 5

Girl Rockers Unite @ Mao Live:
The second Mao gig this weekend where i’ve never heard of any band. These are supposedly some of Beijing’s premier female bands and they’re out to prove they can rock out better than the boys. I would mention who they are but i don’t think it makes a difference. Great opportunity to try something new.. worst case scenario, you got eye candy.