BK Magazine 660 October 7, 2016

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BK MAGAZINE NO. 660 FRIDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2016. www.bkmagazine.com

Bangkok’s indie music labels and why they matter

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lida thavorn,

ittikul

page 3 What We’ve Learned

6 cover story

Going Underground

4 upfront

14 avenue

Parks and Recreation

Cap Era

16 avenue

20 blends

Slick Kicks

Team Spirit

22 bites

30 BK Now

Veg Out

Live and Local

Who's in charge?

Managing Director Andrew Hiransomboon Editor in Chief / Product Director Grégoire Glachant Managing Editor Oliver Irvine Deputy Editor Carl Dixon Features Associate Monruedee Jansuttipan Staff Writers Natcha Sanguankiattichai, Bonnie Sananvatananont Branded Content Associate Sureepak Janyapat Content Coordinator Nontaya Kumyat Junior Writers Theerada Moonsiri, Earn Saenmuk, Choltanutkun Tun-atiruj Art Director Dith Chang Production Supervisor Komkrit Klinkaeo Senior Graphic Designers Chantich Kongchanmitkul, Peeraya Sirathanisa Junior Graphic Designers Wariya Whangwaewklang, Parida Ritthiron Content Designer Saranya Laowtrakul

Where to find us!

The Asia City Media Group

Advertising Director Wanida Akeapichai Sales Managers Tipkritta Chiraporncharas, Orajira Sukkasem Senior Sales Associates Tassanee Mahamad, Onwara Sittirug, Nattaya Bovornsettanon, Orakarn Laohakanjanasiri, Amarit Jinaya Marketing Executive Plaifon Chienvichai

Contributor Kathy MacLeod

Senior Project Manager Chayanap Tongdadas IT Manager Takrit Jitjaroen

Group Directors

Finance Manager Supaporn Bangmoung Assistant Finance Manager Anchalee Limkhamduang Senior Accountant Maneeya Kanthongdang Administrator Yaovaluck Srisermsri Accountant Manita Bangmoung

Bangkok Asia City Publishing (Thailand) Ltd. 9/F, Sathorn Nakorn Tower 100 North Sathorn Rd., Silom, Bangrak, Bangkok 10500 Tel: 02-624-9696 Fax: 02-237-5656 Email: bkmagazine@asia-city.co.th

Interns Gunticha Pangsalae, Warunya Litthisri, Tessa Domzalski, Waratchaya Boonket Cover by Panita Thiraphapong

Chief Executive Officer Gretchen Worth gworth@asia-city.co.th Group Digital Director Greg Duncan gduncan@asia-city.com.sg

Singapore Asia City Publishing Pte. Ltd. Block 211 Henderson Rd. #07-02 Henderson Industrial Park Singapore 159552 Tel: 65-6323-2512 Fax: 65-6323-2779 Email: contact@asia-city.com.sg

A checklist of BK Magazine’s most important discoveries this week.

Morrissey might not make it to Bangkok after all We’re not ones for fearmongering, but the former Smiths frontman is no stranger to last-minute drama. Just last week his Oct 1 show in Yokohama was canceled “due to logistical issues,” even though the next night he performed in Osaka as planned. Let’s hope Morrissey doesn’t suffer another of his trademark changes of heart for his Bangkok debut on Oct 18— tix still available at Thaiticketmajor.

A late-night food institution is under threat The lovably dodgy Malaysia Hotel on Sathorn Soi 1 is undergoing a revamp. So far, they’ve changed the dusty green and pink color scheme to brown and yellow and ripped up the carpark. Last on the to-do list, we hear, is the Malai restaurant, long a favorite of Bangkok’s night crowd looking for a 4am refuel. We’d love to see it stay exactly the way it is, but if things do have to change, we pray they only touch the decor and not the food. Without that khaotom, nights out just wouldn’t be the same.

The leader of Hong Kong’s umbrella movement is coming to Bangkok It’s four decades since the horrific events that saw over a hundred students dead and 3,000 arrested. Chulalongkorn University is commemorating that by inviting Joshua Wong Chi-Fung, a leader of Hong Kong’s Occupy movement, over to our military-ruled country for a chat with students. On top of that, Thammasat University and Kasetsart University are also hosting academic discussions, film screenings and live performances to mark the significant date.

There’s now a skywalk connecting CentralWorld and Platinum Traveling to Platinum and Pratunam has finally been made easy. Saving us from the walk from BTS Chit Lom, past Gaysorn and the Saensaeb stink-khlong is a new skywalk that takes you straight there without breaking a sweat.

All is change at Vogue Lounge Sathorn’s fashionable rooftop bar with frontrow views of Bangkok’s tallest building just launched its new food and drink menu. We have nothing but praise for new bartender Francesco Moretti’s drinks—the gold-dusted old fashioned and coffee-andherbs negroni especially—but the increasingly dainty dishes may call for double orders.

BK “Asia City Living” Magazine is edited by Andrew Hiransomboon and published 51 times a year, every Friday of each month by Asia City Publishing (Thailand) Ltd. Copyright ©2016 Asia City Publishing (Thailand) Ltd. The titles “BK Magazine,” “BK ‘Asia City Living’ Magazine” and their associated logos or devices, and the content of BK “Asia City Living” Magazine are the property of Asia City Publishing (Thailand) Ltd. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is strictly prohibited. Article reprints are available for B50 each. The magazine may not be distributed without the express written consent of Asia City Publishing (Thailand) Ltd. Contact the Advertising Department for ad rates and specifications. All advertising must comply with the Publisher’s terms of business, copies of which are available upon request. Printed by Comform Co.,Ltd. 212 Moo 13 Krungthepkreetha Rd., Saphansoong, Bangkok 10250

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@bkmagazine BK Magazine Friday, October 7, 2016

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upfront HOT OR NOT

Hot: A Day

Not: Ploykampetch

For over two decades, Ploykampetch provided our moms with something to read at the salon. All that changed last week with the news that the longstanding society mag is the latest victim of Bangkok’s dying print industry. But it’s not all bad news. A Day Bulletin announced that it would be publishing every three days rather than once a week. Which sounds great until you learn it’s to cover the ass of another flatlining magazine from the same group—Life.

INTERVIEW

Hot: Flag Day

Not: Work

Bathysphere Recording

Thailand has 22 national holidays each year, and that’s just not good enough.

Step forward Flag Day, which is here to save September from the day-off wilderness it’s been till now. The new Sep 28 holiday celebrates the day in 1917 when King Rama VI issued the design of today’s five-striped national flag. It also marks the day on Sep 28, 2016, when for the first time someone made it official what color those stripes should be. Seriously.

Hot: Anything but dreamwave

Not: Dreamwave

Hot: Tourism

Prilfish

Albert Lozada

Have you grown tired of listening to bands called stuff like Jelly Wave and Naptime Twins pipe stretched-out melodies from retro synthesizers? You’re not alone. But since even people in the industry can’t tell us what happens to Thai indie music next (see page 6), you won’t hear it from us. Till something else does happen, go watch Paradise Bangkok International Molam Band at Boiler Room here: goo.gl/8UpNZt.

Not: Conservation

Back in May, the Department of National Parks announced it would close 14 dive sites indefinitely to recover from the effects of tourism. The announcement conveniently fell at the time of year when dive sites across the country close for monsoon season. Now though the monsoon season’s nearly over, and guess what? All 14 are open for business along with every other dive site as of Oct 15.

To hear what is being done to save our marine environments, read the interview on this page.

THAT’S WHAT SHE SAID

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This Oct 15 marks the date that Thailand’s marine national parks once again open to tourists. And that spells environmental damage for some of the country’s most beautiful dive sites. We met up with outspoken environmentalist Thon Thamrongnawasawat, 50, a marine scientist at Kasetsart University and an advisor to the Department of National Parks. His job: to protect both parks and tourism.

How bad is Thai tourism now?

We hit 30 million visitors in August this year, which is double the number from six years ago. Still, the amount spent per head has increased just two percent in the same six-year gap, showing that we’ve clearly failed in increasing the number of higher-income tourists who visit. It’s a serious problem for our economy as tourism accounts for 20 percent of our gross domestic product. There aren’t many countries in the world where the number is this huge. But when there are huge tourist numbers, it also has an enormous impact on our natural resources.

And what impact is that having on our national marine sites?

Let me do a comparison. Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, once the largest marine park in the world, covers 350,000 sq kilometers and allows about 2.3 million visitors per year.

Hat Noppharat Thara-Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park consists of only 390 sq kilometers and admits 1.8 million visitors a year, when it only has the capacity for 300,000. So how is it coping with the other 1.5 million? On top of this, we only have 100 low-wage officers and a small boat to oversee all these visitors.

So why does nothing happen to change that?

We’re often asked why we don’t decrease the capacity, but it’s not that easy. I don’t think any government would be brave enough to break its main GDP revenue. The increasing number of visitors also seems to be the only achievement of every government. It’s “Hooray!” every time tourist numbers increase.

So there’s no solution?

I knew that we couldn’t decrease visitor numbers, so instead we implemented the “Phi Phi Model” at Phi Phi National Park and some other marine parks last year. We knew that there were a lot of things slipping under officers’ radars like illegal tours and boats. So we toughened up our rules.

We’ve removed all the original officers and replaced them. In 2015, we collected entrance fees of B24 million. But with the new staff team, we have collected B530 million so far this year. It’s not only here. Ao Phang Nga National Park has collected B300-400 million more than last year. In 2015, the revenue of all national parks was B896 million. But with just these two national parks, the total amount up until August has already surpassed the whole revenue of last year.

Why is making more money a good thing for the environment of these parks?

With this model, I aim to create a sufficient system to protect these national marine parks. We have already bought five new boats and plan to install at least 150 more buoys for tourist boats in order to stop anchors droppings to coral reefs. And of course, increase the wage of low-rank officers who do hard work to protect our natural resources.

What about the islands’ closure?

We’re still evaluating the situation.

Last year, when we announced Tachai Island’s closure, it became a big headline around the world, as it’s really rare for this to happen in Thailand. Our country has been a slave to tourism for so long. The Tourism Authority of Thailand’s Key Performance Indicator [KPI] might be scaled by the number of visitors but the national park’s KPI is how we prevent nature from deteriorating. We might periodically close Maya Bay next, who knows. Local Phi Phi administrators have already raised this issue as they want to protect their treasured home as well.Interview by Monruedee Jansuttipan

by Kathy MacLeod kathymacleod.blogspot.com

BK Magazine Friday, October 7, 2016

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ADVERTORIAL

RATCHADA’S BOOM

THE AREA SHOWS NO SIGN OF SLOWING DOWN

HOW TO CAPTURE INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES IN THE HEART OF THE NEW CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT. It’s hard to overstate the investment potential of Bangkok’s Ratchada neighborhood. No other part of Bangkok has seen such rapid growth, to the tune of tens of billions of baht worth of both office and residential projects, much of it driven by Noble Development. The boom of Ratchada has redefined Bangkok’s central business district and forged a new community of young professionals driven to the area’s many work and investment opportunities.

OPPORTUNITIES Prices in Ratchada remain lower than in legacy business areas like Asoke and Sathorn. But Colliers’ research notes that with little to no land left to develop in those areas, development is set to shift to up-and-coming areas like Ratchada. While rental prices in Ratchada are around B800 per sq.m., the potential is for nearly double that, given that grade-A projects in the Phloen Chit area can reach prices as high as B1,600 per sq.m. Actually, Ratchada prices are already up from B700 in 2015 and expected to reach B950 by year-end. The sentiment therefore is that the time to invest in Ratchada is now.

On the residential front, rates are expected to follow as this surge of new offices attracts young professionals. Land prices are up 33 percent compared to 2011 but condominium construction is still lagging behind the office boom, putting a lot of pressure on existing condominium projects.

That means rental demand is extremely high across the board and set to remain high for years to come.

Investors have taken note, with pick-up rates showing no signs of slowing down.

BIG PLAYERS Noble was among the first to identify Ratchada as a new hub for Bangkok. With the construction of Noble Ratchada and Noble Ratchada 2, the developer was a key driver of the neighborhood’s reinvention into a thriving, modern district.

Other key players in the area include G Land, whose 35-billion-baht mixed-use development has attracted major corporate headquarters like Unilever, and the AIA complex, a six-billion-baht project. Even the Stock Exchange of Thailand has relocated here, making Ratchada officially Bangkok’s new CBD (central business district).

PEACE OF MIND In Thailand, condominiums remain the greatest investment opportunity for foreigners thanks to laws that allow full ownership for foreign nationals.

Condominiums must be occupied by at least 51 percent of Thais, a requirement easily met in Ratchada. Beyond that, buying a condo in Bangkok is a very straightforward process, which requires little more than a letter from one’s bank stating the funds come from abroad.

The advent of ASEAN will place Bangkok at the nexus of the entire region, leading even more corporate headquarters and professionals to consider Ratchada as the ideal base of operations.

Ratchada is a 40-minute train ride away from Suvarnabhumi and a 30-minute drive in normal traffic conditions.

Ratchada is now mentioned in the same breath as Asoke, Silom, Siam, Phloen Chit or Sathorn— the most expensive areas in Bangkok. Its prices, though, have yet to catch up. Those who miss out on current investment opportunities in Ratchada will undoubtedly regret it when the neighborhood’s sale and rental rates catch up.

Visit www.noblehome.com or call us at 02-251-9955

Ratchada’s appeal owes much to its proximity to the city center and its wealth of transportation options.

The MRT Blue line runs along the main Ratchada artery, providing convenient transportation for the area and further afield­­­—it’s direct to Asoke and Silom/Sathorn.

Traffic is noticeably smoother than on the downtown thoroughfares of Bangkok, thanks in no small part to several expressway access ramps and Ratchadapisek Road itself, a wide avenue with eight lanes.

Those ready to invest should consider the fully-furnished Noble Revolve Ratchada 2, which comes fully equipped with ready-to-use appliances, perfect for immediate rental that cuts out the decoration step for investors.

cover story

What’s your label’s signature sound?

Tar: Electronic pop, ‘70s-early-‘90s influences, soul, funk and the like. We are quite detailed and focus on all the little things.

Jerry: We’re sound nerds, and always collect things like random snare sounds, unique bass sounds, things like that.

What are you looking for right now?

Tar: I want our artists to have even more defined characters of their own.

Who are your artists?

Jerry: Pelifics [Norway], The Hair Kid [USA]—who has collaborated on Cyndi Seui’s latest album—Astrolabe [Japan], Apolo [Korea] and us four.

Kitsch Cat Formed in 2008 by four music producers—Cesar B. De “Tar” Guzman aka Cyndi Seui, Jaree “Jerry” Thanapura aka Gramaphone Children, Mittraroon “Pa” Bochakkapan aka Stargazer and Peera “Max” Suk-a-sa aka Clubpopp— Kitsch Cat is an electronic-focused label which promises to give creative space to its artists. As well as Thai producers and musicians, they also represent a few foreign artists.

Why did you first start out?

Tar: We just felt like if we didn’t start then, we never would. To be fair, we were already working on projects in our spare time. Forming Kitsch Cat just meant we set a specific deadline for our projects.

What’s your label’s signature sound?

Indie electronic pop, dream pop. I want it to be a cross between live band and electronic music, and want it to be quite easy to get into, whether you listen to very underground music or pop music.

Our sound is not overly “indie.”

Formed in 2012 by Jakchai “Tung” Panchanon (with a lot of studio recording support from Sound Suite studio’s owner, Chawanet “Pong” Asanasen), Comet aims to introduce Thai electronic music to a wider local audience.

"For the past 5-6 years, the indie music scene has become so much stronger, people are more openminded."

Tar: During 2000-2010, it was like a completely different feeling; people weren’t really interested in indie music back then. For the past 5-6 years, the indie music scene has become so much stronger, people are more open-minded about new genres. The DIY culture has also helped; people can learn how to record music at home via YouTube and it actually doesn’t sound all that bad.

What do you want your label to achieve?

Tar: I feel that we are now much stronger, we have new studios and are ready to move forward. We are ready to welcome more artists and are right now looking for them.

What upcoming projects are you working on?

Jerry: We release the Slice and Dice series in the first week of October, featuring Gramaphone Children with Pyra and MC Sinnamon from Dujada.

Pa: Stargazer is releasing a new single in November for Cat Festival.

Max: And we should be hearing a new album from Clubpopp sometime soon, too.

Who are your favorite Thai artists?

Jerry: Fwends and Jelly Rocket.

Pa: Yellow Fang and Solitude is Bliss.

Max: Polycat and The Innocent.

Tar: My Life as Ali Thomas, Siam SecretService and 4-Tao-Ter. www.fb.com/KitschCatClub

Why did you decide to form an independent record label?

I’m an interior designer, but I have always made music in my spare time, releasing some of it under the name Casinotone with Spicy Disc, when they first formed the label. But I wanted to form my own label, one that only focuses on electronic music.

Comet records

What do you make of the current Thai music scene?

Jerry: It has improved a lot. People like Have You Heard? and Fungjai [see box] have helped improve the scene a lot by bringing indie bands from overseas to Bangkok. Thai indie bands have a more interesting sound, breaking away from the usual old pop/rock.

What must artists have if they want to work with you?

We have to have the same attitude.

If you’re in this because you want to be famous, we’d rather not work with you, because that’s not our goal. I like musicians who are different. We always

choose the people who want to be original and different.

than that, we help to promote them through media and the likes.

Who are your artists?

I’ve just released the Comet four-year compilation. I have about eight artists right now, including Morg, Minus88, Naked Astronaught, UNDA and Vivid Dream. Plus I have four of my own projects that I do with other musicians.

What challenges has your label faced?

The feedback from the audience has been quite good since the beginning, but financially, it was very bad for me in the early days. I then started planning the costs better, so we are good now. I feel that my struggle right now is finding enough people who are open to new music.

"If you’re in this because you want to be famous, we’d rather not work with you, because that’s not our goal. I like musicians who are different."

What do you do to help support the artists on your label?

We help with the songwriting process when they struggle, but normally our artists already have some ideas. Other

Do you think the Thai music scene is better now than in the past?

I think it has improved. Social media plays a big part. The internet has made it easier to find references, easier to reach audiences, easier for artists to release music on their own.

Who are your favorite Thai artists?

The electronic experimental duo Gad. www.fb.com/cometrecordsBKK

IF YOU’RE INTO INDIE MUSIC, YOU SHOULD ALSO CHECK OUT...… … HAVE YOU HEARD? This concert organizer is active in bringing indie bands from overseas to Bangkok and connecting them with local acts as support groups. Their past credits include Wild Beasts, Neon Indian, Erlend Oye and Of Montreal.

Lined up for Dec 4 this year they have US indie rockers Yo La Tengo. www.fb.com/haveyouheard.live

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… FUNGJAI This website lets you listen to as much indie music as you want, acting as a community that connects artists with fans. Its platforms include music streaming, an online magazine, live gig events and music business seminars and meet-ups. After just two years, it has expanded rapidly, and next plans to launch an English version of the site. www.fungjai.com

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cover story Panda records Panda has been deeply involved in the underground music scene since 1999 and is also responsible for Museum Siam’s outdoor Noise Market (next taking place Nov 19-20). Formed by Somsiri “June” Sangkaew aka June Bear-Garden, Yuthana “June” Kalambaheti from the band Stylish Nonsense, Bhuridata “Bhu” Jaiyasresratha from the band CAD, and Wannarit “Pok” Pongprayoon, also from Stylish Nonsense, it represents one of the biggest indie band rosters in the city. Here, we talk to Pok about running the label.

Why did you decide to form an inde- Who are your artists and how are they doing? pendent record label?

Most record labels are very busi- We have over 30 artists, including ness-minded, and not very focused some side projects and foreign artists. on the quality, so I had no interest in These include Summer Dress, who are them. I had a clear picture of what I very natural in their sound; Hariguem Zaboy who are also wanted from a label, so I decided to do it my "Our artists must have a very well musiway. The non-commer- strong character of their cally educated; and cial way. own and not just copy Bear-Garden, who really have their What’s your label’s from other artists." own character. signature sound?

Originality. Our artists must have a strong What goals have you set for the label? character of their own and not just copy We’d like to have more merchandise for from other artists. Our production is quite people to purchase, so Panda Records raw, so our signature sound is quite edgy. becomes a brand of its own.

Do you see a strong future in Thaimade music?

It’s improving but slowly. I feel that a lot of Thai musicians still copy from foreign bands, instead of taking influences to develop their own original sound. They just end up copying without developing.

Who are your favorite Thai artists?

A Thai music composer/conducter called Dnu Huntrakul from the band Mai Thai. www.fb.com/pandarecs

Rats Records Anucha “Off” Ocharoen and Premkamol “Yuan” Santiwattana formed Rats Records in 2013, and have since put out releases from artists like Part Time Musicians, Phum Viphurit and, just last month, Henri Dunant, with the debut single "Nick of Time."

Why did you decide to form Rats Records?

Off: Before this, I was just making music for TV commercials and I got bored having to work according to clients’ preferences. I felt like I needed to do something that I actually enjoyed, to make music I actually liked.

Yuan: To hunt for quality Thai musicians because I'm sure we have as many talented musicians as any other places.

What must artists have if they want to work with you?

Yuan: We like people who are not afraid to have their own sound, who are not worried about whether their music is going to sell or not. They’ve got to want to give it all and not be afraid to be different.

"Some commercial musicians are treated like products. Their label comes with a PowerPoint presentation about their 'theme' and 'concept.'"

Is there a typical Rats Records sound?

Yuan: I don’t think so, but we take the recording process and technical stuff— mixing and mastering—very seriously.

Off: All of our artists have their own mixing signatures.

Who are your most successful artists?

Off: At the moment we have two artists, Phum Viphurit and Henri Dunant. Our first ever band was Part Time Musicians, who are doing well.

Their music was featured in the movie Freelance. Now some of their members are studying abroad, while one of them is a flight attendant for Singapore Airlines. The Whitest Crow were another

A BRIEF HISTORY OF THAI INDIE MUSIC The newly-founded Bakery Music releases Moderndog’s first, self-titled album. It sells 500,000 copies.

1994

Smallroom Records launches with the debut album of pop-rockers 4-Tao-Ter.

2000

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B a ke r y M u s i c closes and the owners go on to more mainstream success.

2004

Interior designer Jakchai “Tung” Panchanon launches Comet Records.

2012

What problems do you see within the Thai music scene?

Off: Some commercial musicians are treated like products. Their label comes with a PowerPoint presentation about their 'theme' and 'concept.' The commercial side of the music industry is like that now.

Yuan: We feel that the independent music scene has improved, slowly, but that side still exists. Still, people don’t experiment enough nor do they want to improve themselves.

Who are your favorite Thai artists?

Yuan: Cyndi Seui, Basement Tape, Paradise Bangkok Molam International Band.

Off: Modern Dog, Stylish Nonsense. www.fb.com/ratsthailand

Panda Records stages the first Noise Market, an outdoor series of activities and performances that goes on to become one of Bangkok’s most popular annual indie events.

Fat Radio shuts down, later relaunching as the online-only Cat Radio.

2013

2015

1999

1995 Joey Boy releases his first album, which introduces hip-hop to Bangkok. The album goes on to sell over a million copies nationwide.

Panda Records releases its first project: a compilation of 10 indie Thai artists including CAD and Stylish Nonsense.

of our bands, they released their first album with us, but said they wanted to do their second release on their own.

2002 2000 Fat Radio launches, becoming the only music station to play and support Bangkok’s indie music scene.

G M M Grammy gives birth to Bodyslam, who go on to become the country’s greatest commercial rock success.

2008 Ces a r B. De “Tar” Guzman aka Cyndi Seui forms Kitsch Cat with three of his friends.

2013 Part Time Musicians’ single “Vacation Time” (released under Rats Records) blows up on Fat Radio, drawing greater attention to the indie music scene.

2014

2016

The online indie music streaming service Fungjai launches.

Moose E k k a mai closes down after four years as one of the city’s top live indie music venues.

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escapes ESCAPE ROUTES

By Monruedee Jansuttipan

PHUKET

New Pearl Phuket’s ever-improving old town has attracted a big-name international hotel brand away from the beach for the first time. Novotel Phuket Phokeethra (076-/397-777, goo. gl/T6rdJb) opened its doors on Jan 1, taking up residence in what was the old Thaworn Hotel with 180 newly decked-out, modern and bright rooms. Steer yourself away from Phuket Town’s delicious local cuisine for a moment and you’ll also find the Sky Lounge, which brings a touch of speakeasy-like elegance to the area, complete with panoramic views of the town, the bay and the mountains. Room rates start from B3,450 and go to B23,450 for the Presidential Suite.

KOH KOOD

Foodie Paradise The super high-end Senova Khiri (02-631-9624, www.soneva.com/soneva-kiri) on Koh Kood is jumping on board the current food festival season with a whole bunch of Dutch chefs.

On Oct 29 only, the hotel offers a sixcourse dinner with each course prepared by a different chef: Henk Savelberg (of Savelberg in Bangkok), Martin Kruidhof (De Lindenhof), Cees Helder (Parkheuvel), Raymond Prinsen (De Stenen Tafel), Wilco Berends (De Nederlanden) and Jarno Eggen (Zuidwolde, which earned its second star this year). The dinner takes place at their beachside restaurant The View. Bag you and your partner a three-day-two-night stay at one of the resort’s pool villas for B105,000 (including the dinner), or take up the two-bedroom Junior Ocean Pool Retreat with a group of four at B277,000 for two nights (only valid for Thai residents or expats).

These prices also include spa treatment and flights between Trad and the resort, which you can only access by plane.

VIETNAM

Sense of Style Vietnam's Six Senses Ninh Van Bay (goo.gl/EYx0sC) is a coastal gem, sitting pretty above a secluded bay overlooking the East Vietnam Sea. It has also just renovated its beachfront pool villas, giving the pools a lush new look and creating a green corridor that leads to each villa. Inside you’ll also find your own wooden bath-tub and luxe laidback living area on the second floor. What hasn’t changed are the hefty prices: US$551 (B19,166) a night—but you can bring up to three guests.

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

AIRLINES

Incredible India

K

While AirAsia and Nok Air are racing to open more Eastern destinations, Thai Smile (www.thaismileair.com), the budget line of Thai Airways is heading west. It just announced four new routes between Bangkok and four Indian cities: Varanasi, Jaipur, Lucknow and Gaya (the main destination for Thai Buddhists pilgrims). The Gaya and Varanasi routes already started operating on Oct 1, which one flight costing from B13,280 for Gaya and B13,880 for Varanasi while Jaipur is B7,380 and Lucknow is B7,880.

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avenue SHOPPING

Head Smart Street-fashion lovers can rejoice now that American cap manufacturer New Era has finally opened a store right in the heart of Bangkok. As the only manufacturer of baseball caps for every Major League Baseball team—and the majority of other sport teams both in America and internationally—New Era are the cap guys in the States, and don’t just do sports caps, either. You’ll also find pop-culture limited editions for things like The Simpsons, Maleficent and Mickey Mouse. Pick between fitted and adjustable styles, flat or pre-curved visor, and don’t worry if the shape on the shelf doesn’t feel right on you—New Era has a machine to help reform it to the desired shape. Prices range from B1,390-1,790. 2/F, Siam Center, Rama 1 Rd. Open daily 10am-10pm. BTS Siam

HOME

BEAUTY

SPA

Modern Times

Looking Good

Simple Charms

Local luxury furniture importer Chanintr Living is moving its Herman Miller showroom from the old location at The Promenade to GPF Witthayu right next door to the US Embassy. Inside you’ll not only find clean-line, mid-century design, but also Chanintr’s working office, so you can check out the furnishings in their natural habitat. Head down now to grab yourself the genuine article of such coveted design icons as the Eames lounge chair and ottoman (B192,000) and Aeron office chair (from B38,500). 18/F, Tower A, GPF Witthayu, Wireless Rd., 02-015-8889. www.chanintrliving.com

IT Cosmetics, an American makeup line which promises skincare benefits, is now available here in Bangkok. Perfect for the Bangkok heat, Your Skin But Better (B1,700) is a full-coverage CC cream that also acts as a moisturizing day cream with a hefty sun-protection factor of 50+. Also check out Bye Bye Under Eye (B980) for a waterproof anti-aging concealer that works, and—our personal favorite—Superhero elastic stretch volumizing mascara (B980). The mascara and brow pencil are relatively smudge-free and so easy to use they’ll cut minutes off your morning makeup ritual. Now available at Sephora. Try L2/F, Central Embassy, Phloen Chit Rd., 02-160-5817-8. Open daily 10am-10pm. BTS Phloen Chit

Good news for Saphan Kwai and Ari residents: the new Simply Retreat Spa brings you affordable massage and spa treatments that aim higher than your regular neighborhood shophouse massage spot. Both male and female therapists are at hand to choose from, while the atmosphere is clean, welcoming and cozy. Treatments include Thai massage (from B300/ hour), aromatic massage (from B400/hour) and body scrubs (B400/45min). Go now and you’ll catch the grand opening 15-percent discount. 7 Suthisan Winitchai Rd. 088-815-9888.

Open daily noon-midnight. BTS Saphan Khwai. www.fb.com/ simplyretreatspa

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avenue SHOPPING

Pumped Up Kicks Check out the new sneakers you need in your life.

All available in Bangkok. By Earn Saenmuk

Converse Chuck Taylor All Star II Rubber HI - White Price : B4,400 The regular Chuck Taylor gets a translucent rubber coating so our feet don’t get wet in the rain.

The Nike Lunarlon insole cushioning and a microsuede lining mean they’re super-soft, too.

Adidas x White Mountaineering Tubular Nova in olive green Price : B6,490 Adidas worked with the Japanese brand White Mountaineering to create this line of sneakers with a heather-like finish. cool to look at, comfy to walk in.

Vans Varsity SK8-Hi Reissue navy/true white Price : B3,300 This time, Vans classic hi-tops go down the men’s vintage route, mixing leather and fabric.

Quite proper and neat, these shoes could even go with a suit and tie.

Nike Air Pegasus ’92 Premium “Olympic 2016” Price : B4,400 This is the revival of an old model, but better. The official “USA Track & Field” shoe is big on the tongue and heel so you can now relive the Olympic Games from 24 years ago in comfort.

Converse Jack Purcell M Series Canvas Ox Price : B3,800 Part of Converse’s new Counter Climate Shield Canvas series, they’re water-repellent, durable, and still offer all the sock-like comfort of a regular canvas shoe. Reflective heel tabs also make them a cyclist safety win.

Nike Roshe Two (Men) 400

Fred Perry Reissues Table Tennis shoe

Price : B3,800 Roshe Ones are the Nikes which made us all rethink our wardrobes. Now, the Roshe Twos are here, making us switch things up again.

This time around, the in-trend sock-like look and marshmallow sole remain, but they look more structured at the front. They’re also said to be more comfy to walk in.

Price : B3,990 These lightweight shoes are simple but full of details—see the asymmetrical suede toe cap.

The signature wreath embroidery remains, but overall it’s a more contemporary, easier-to-wear look for the brand. Available exclusively at Fred Perry at the EmQuartier.

Vans Odd Future SK8 Hi

Essentials

Price : B4,100 That bright blue and donut-glaze pink color scheme even extends to the lining in this limited-edition pair of kicks made in collaboration with hip-hop collective Odd Future.

You’ll only find them at Carnival.

Adidas. Adidas Originals Concept Store, 1/F, Siam Center, Rama 1 Rd. BTS Siam Converse. 3/F, Sports Mall, The Emporium, Sukhumvit Rd. BTS Phrom Phong Fred Perry. 2/F, The EmQuartier, Sukhumvit Rd. BTS Phrom Phong Nike.1/F, Siam Square One, Siam Square Soi 7. BTS Siam Vans. 5/F, ZEN Department Store, CentralWorld, Ratchadamri Rd. BTS Siam/Chit Lom Carnival. Siam Square Soi 1. BTS Siam

4 New Reasons to Update Your Sneakers

THE LAB (SILOM)

BASE BANGKOK

VIRGIN ACTIVE

THE COLOR RUN

From B400/session, 2/F, NST One Building, Silom Soi 1, 02-662-1618.

From B340/hour, Noble Remix, Sukhumvit Rd., 083-838-5810

From B1,440/2 weeks, 5/F Siam Discovery, Rama Rd. 1, 02-017-9777

B800-900, from Airport Rail Link Makkasan, see more runs in BK Now, page 30

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REALLY THAI

Go Slow Oriental Escape

Five slow-life escapes around Bangkok.

Train to Hua Hin

Stroll through the mangroves in Samut Sakhom Take a scenic and educational walk through the massive 1,600acre Ao Mahachai mangrove forest, just two hours outside Bangkok, where a campaign from the Samut Sakhon governor recently saw an extra 770 trees planted. Offering a great way to escape from the bustle of daily life, the research area boasts an impressive nature trail around the Tha Chin River where travelers can spend the day exploring on a sturdy bamboo path that takes you deep into nature. Those feeling a bit more adventurous can make a weekend of it by camping at the on-site camp grounds.

Ao Mahachai Mangrove Forest Natural Education Center, Bang Ya Praek, Samut Sakhon, 080-459-3164 Ao Mahachai mangrove forest

Cruise on a barge to Ayutthaya For those looking for a quick and breezy river escape, book a threeday trip on the 100-year old rice barge dubbed Anantara Song, which has been rebuilt using solid teak and converted into a floating palace that comes with five-star service from Anantara Riverside resort. The luxury cruise offers a peaceful journey along the Chao Phraya River towards Thailand’s ancient capital of Ayutthaya, stopping off at historic temples and traditional craft centers along the way. Kick back and relax with the fully-stocked bar on board and a kitchen that serves up breakfast, lunch and dinner. www.bangkok-cruises.anantara.com

Farm your own vegetables in Ratchaburi Those looking to get their hands a little dirty while living life in the slow lane should head over to Rai Pluk Rak, an organic farm just one hour from Bangkok that conducts weekend agricultural workshops for participants to learn about the process of growing vegetables without the use of any chemicals. Run by sustainability champion Anothai Gongvatana, this weekend getaway lets you plant your own pot plants to take home, and also comes with an on-site vegetarian restaurant promising refreshing countryside views.

130 Moo 1, Petchkasem Road, Ratchaburi. 032-389-521. www.fb.com/ thaiorganicfood

Anantara Song

Explore Chanthaburi’s old-school canal community Colloquially known as “No-Land Village,” this hidden gem of a community, three hours outside Bangkok, got its name from the fact that it is made up of wooden houses built over the water, meaning boats are the only means of transportation. Visitors can take a slow boat to visit the locals and learn all about the fishermen’s lifestyle, while witnessing flocks of red-backed sea eagles gathering in the mangrove forest nearby. Make a weekend of it by renting out one of the floating raft-houses for yourself and spending the night—call 02-880-7388 for details.

Moo 78, Bangchan, Chanthaburi

Brought to you by TAT

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Rai Pluk Rak

Hop on a slow train to Hua Hin One of the all-time-favorite beach destinations near Bangkok is more exciting than ever, thanks to new openings like SeenSpace Hua Hin, a beachside mall with chic shopping, dining and drinking options; Air Space, a stunning aviation-themed restaurant; and 1d+ Day Artist, a minimal cafe in a breezy garden setting. You can start your slow-life holiday by the beach with a laid-back four-hour train ride from Bangkok. The first-class compartments come with air conditioning, food and drink service and a comfortable space for two people. Tickets can be bought 90 days in advance at main train stations including Bangkok’s central Hua Lamphong Station.

Hua Lamphong Train Station, 319 Rong Mueng Rd. MRT Hua Lamphong

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bites & blends

DOWNLOAD BEST EATS 2016 FOR FREE And discover Bangkok's best casual restaurants. bkmagazine.com/besteats

RESTAURANT

Mexican Backyard Nestled down the surprisingly peaceful Thonglor Soi 7, The Missing Burro serves Mexican food amid a friendly garden setting. From a converted shipping container, the Mexican owners roll out traditional comfort dishes like corn tortilla tacos al pastor (spiced marinated pork with pineapple, B280), carnitas (braised pork, B280), choriqueso (housemade chorizo mixed with melted cheese, B300) and sopecitos (fried lime-soaked ground maize topped with refried beans, meat, cheese, lettuce and tomatoes, B180), with delightful sauces made with imported Mexican chilies. Don’t miss the comforting chicken enchiladas (B300), too. Wash it all down with a bottle of Day of the Dead beer (B220) or a margarita (B240). 145 Thonglor Soi 7, 090913-2131

TEA

CAFE

BEER

Tea Over Coffee

Marie Antoinette

Hybrid Brew

American specialty tea company Teavana has finally arrived in Thailand, with coffee giant Starbucks selling it at hundreds of stores across the nation. The wildly popular tea blends appear in Starbucks drinks like Espresso & Matcha Fusion (starting at B130), Black Tea with Ruby Grapefruit and Honey (starting at B115), Iced Shaken Green Tea with Aloe and Prickly Pear (starting at B130), and Iced Shaken Hibiscus Tea with Pomegranate Pearls (starting at B130). Thankfully, there are also traditional tea offerings like English breakfast, Earl Grey and masala chai. Those who just want to grab Teavana leaves for themselves can get them at the brand's new standalone stores at Siam Square One, CentralWorld, Villa Ari, The Street and Paseo Kanchanaphisek. www.starbucks.co.th

There's more to Laduree than macarons. The French patisserie has brought its Laduree Salon de The (that means tea house) to Bangkok, serving up a range of oh-so-French dishes and desserts in an incredibly ornate setting like something straight out of Paris. French chef Fossiez Benoit helms the kitchen, rolling out both brand staples—omelet (B280-300), French toast (B350)—and his own specials. In keeping with the plush setting, appetizers like duck foie gras with mango and pistachio (B650) and mains including grilled beef with potato mash (B900) are all prettily plated.

Pastries like Mont Blanc (B290) and, of course, macarons (B120), plus house-branded tea (B280), also make this a real afternoon tea destination. M/F, Siam Paragon, 991/1 Rama 1 Rd., 02-1294771. BTS Siam

There's a new legal Thai craft beer on the market from Full Moon Brew Works, the Phuket-based company behind the all-conquering Chalawan Pale Ale. Chatri IPA is more intense and full-bodied than its predecessor, with a heftier 5.2% ABV. The beer is actually a collaboration with Stockade Brew Co. of Sydney, Australia—as portrayed in the label bearing a muay Thai fighter koala.

Chatri, like Chalawan, is bottled in Australia and imported back, a move necessitated by Thailand's draconian liquor act, which bans smaller operations from bottling their product locally for retail.

Find it at Bangkok's hippest bars and at fullmoonbeer.bentoweb. com for B650/6 bottles. In more good news, Chalawan became the first Thai beer to win a gold medal at the World Beer Awards, held recently in London. www.fb.com/fullmoonbrewworks

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ADVERTORIAL

Go With the Flow Sit back and relax by the river with an authentic Thai cocktail.

Anantara Riverside Bangkok Resort

Above Riva

at Riva Arun Riverside Boutique Hotel Located on the Chao Phraya River, surrounded by some of Thailand’s most important historical sites—Wat Pho, Wat Arun, the Grand Palace—Above Riva injects some Thai spirit into its cocktails. Riva Jito is a mix of Thai rum, Mekhong, plain syrup, lime juice, mint leaves and a lime wedge, topped with soda. You’ll find the same drink at sister hotel Riva Surya. Other real Thai cocktails on the menu include the Chaophraya Sunrise (Mekhong, rum, triple sec, pineapple juice) and whiskey sour (Mekhong, aroma bitters, orange syrup, plain syrup and lime juice).

Riva Arun, 392/25-26 Maharaj Rd., 02-221-1188, Riva Surya Bangkok, 23 Phra Arthit Rd., 02-633-5000

Set outdoors on a pier stretching over the grand Chao Phraya River, Longtail bar is part of a luxurious resort decorated in an exotic Thai style. Taste the spirit of Thailand in the Thai Sabai, a mix of Mekhong, lemon juice, simple syrup and sweet basil leaves, topped with soda water. The refreshing taste is perfect for the tropical weather. For more fruity Thai flavors, check out the Mekhong Blue Lagoon (Mekhong, blue curacao, lemon juice, Sprite and simple syrup) and Mekhong Twilight (Mekhong, Hiram Walker creme de cassis)—perfect for sunset drinks by the river.

257/1-3 Charoen Nakorn Rd., 02-476-0022

Sala Rattanakosin Eatery & Bar The boutique Sala Rattanakosin Hotel sits across from Wat Arun. Enjoy an authentically Thai stay with the best view in the city and a cocktail infused with the spirit of Thailand.

The Sala Sunset mixes Mekhong with triple sec, served over crushed ice and garnished with fresh mango. The addition of mango makes this cocktail very refreshing and easy to drink, just like fruit juice. The Bangkok sour (Mekhong, Cointreau, lime juice, pineapple juice and grenadine) and Icy Twilight (Mekhong, Absolut vodka, creme de banana, apple juice, lime juice and strawberry syrup) are equally delicious.

Sala Rattanakosin Hotel, 39 Soi Tha-Tien, Maharaj Rd., 02-622-1388

Attitude Rooftop Bar & Restaurant

at Avani riverside Bangkok Hotel Take in the Chao Phraya view from high up on the 26th floor while sipping on a stunning Thaistyle cocktail: the Spirit of Menam. Menam means river in Thai, and in this river you get Mekhong, fresh lime juice, mint syrup, slices of ginger, slices of cucumber, kaffir lime leaves and orange bitters, as well as a dash of authentic Thai rum for good measure. Thanks to the combination of those local herbs and Mekhong, the Spirit of Menam delivers a truly Thai taste.

26/F, Avani Riverside, 257 Charoe Nakorn Rd., 02-431-9100

The Never Ending Summer Not only does this renovated warehouse restaurant on the river serve deliciously authentic Thai dishes, but also real Thai spirit cocktails. R&B is a mixture of Mekhong, peach liqueur, lime and syrup. The taste of real Thai spirit Mekhong is softened by peach liqueur, giving it a slightly fruity flavor. While you’re over there, also check out Cha-rum-yen (Mekhong, vanilla-caramel syrup, Thai tea) and Thann (Mekhong, coconut liqueur, sugar palm nectar).

41/5 Charoen Nakorn Rd., 02-861-0953

for more information:

www.mekhong.com |

HERITAGE & ORIGINS • Introduced in 1941 as Thailand’s first brand of brown spirit.

• Shares its name with the Mekhong River, the Kingdom’s life force.

• Thailand’s most beloved spirit, inspired by national pride since World War II.

mekhong Thailand

blends

Smalls

BARS

That’s the Spirit Scotch isn’t the only spirit worthy of its own dedicated bars.

Check out these other amazing spirit specialists with singularly minded vision. By Choltanutkun Tun-atiruj

Gin Niks Anuman, the head bartender of Chinatown cocktail stronghold Teens of Thailand changes his drinks menu daily, but they always have one thing in common: gin. On our latest visit, we had the Ramos Gin Fizz (B350), a smoothie-like mix of rose water, citrus cream and egg white shaken till vey foamy and then topped with soda, followed by The Mr. Cop-Peler (B320), a bitter combination of gin, sherry, fresh orange and Campari so good that we stayed for another.

Teens of Thailand, 76 Soi Nana, Charoenkrung Rd., 081-443-3784

Rum Havana Social has rum, and lots of it. Their rum-based cocktail menu goes on for pages and pages—great if you know a thing or two about the spirit; baffling if you don’t. If that’s the case, go straight for the Sipping Rum Flight (B300), and educate yourself on the subtle differences between Diplomatico Reserva Exclusive, Dictador 12 years and Flor de Cana 12 years in three half-measure shots with tasting notes from the staff.

Havana Social, Sukhumvit Soi 11, 087-066-7711. BTS Nana

Tequila/Mezcal Touche Hombre claims to stock Bangkok’s largest collection of agave spirits—that’s tequila and mezcal, basically. These they make into cocktails that are just as impressive as their complex, produce-driven Mexican food. A twist on the Manhattan, La Condesa (B295) is a spirit-forward mix of mezcal with oak barrel-aged tequila, Mancino vermouth, Cynar artichoke liqueur and grenadine that goes down far too easily.

Touche Hombre, 2/F, 72 Courtyard, 72 Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor), 061-550-6346

Havana Social

Touche Hombre

Over at Groove, Mejico also dishes out a menu that reads like a Wikipedia page on Mexican alcohol thanks to over 40 carefully described labels of tequila and mezcal. Shots range from B180 all the way up to B2,000, while they also make a delicious pina colada-margarita hybrid signature cocktail (B250) from El Jimador blanco tequila, mango, coconut and pandan.

The newly opened Bronx Liquid Parlour comes from Bangkok-based Japanese bartender Hideyuki Saito (formerly of Vogue Lounge), who claims to have the best selection of Japanese whiskey in the city. Offerings include 12-year-old Suntory Hibiki (B640/gass), Ichiro’s Malt & Grain (B540/glass), 21-year-old Suntory Hibiki (B2,500/glass) and the limited-edition Nikka Yoichi Peaty & Salty (B840). Yikes.

Mejico, 2/F, Groove @ CentralWorld, Rama 1 Rd., 02-252-6660. BTS Chit Lom

Bronx Liquid Parlour, 8 Thonglor Soi 25, 02-036-6071

Bourbon

Absinthe

With plenty of rare bottles on offer (try finding Eagle Rare, Basil Hayden, Booker Noe’s etc. down your local boozer), Rama 9 cocktail spot Bricks and Bone is the bourbon specialist Bangkok whiskey drinkers have been waiting for. Try the D-Day (B250), which packs quite a punch thanks to the mix of bourbon with Irish whiskey, La Quintinye rouge vermouth, Amaro, Aperol and honey. The Boulevardier (bourbon whiskey, sweet vermouth and Campari, B280) is a deliciously rich whiskey-based take on the negroni.

Run by David Jacobson, the founder of Q Bar and Bangkok nightlife legend, Smalls sees three levels of an old Suan Phlu corner shophouse turned into a jewel box of whimsical decor and welcoming atmosphere. It also stocks Jacobson’s prized collection of absinthe, dished out in what he describes as “no-nonsense pours.” These start from B350 a shot.

Bricks & Bone, 2 Rama 9 Soi 41, 091-040-5174

Everyone’s favorite barbecue joint, Smokin’ Pug, is another spot that goes big on bourbon. House signature Dana’s Choice (B295) sees a generous splash of Maker’s Mark mixed with fresh ginger and ginger ale—a smoky hit that goes great with the food.

The Smokin’ Pug, 88 Surawong Rd., 083-029-7598

Japanese Whiskey Yoichi Nikka is all about internationally trending Hokkaido whiskies, mostly single malts (Yoichi and Miyagikyo) and pure malts (Taketsuru). Aside from the highly-touted Takesuru 17 years, they also offer tasting flights (starting B600) which cover three different periods in the whiskey maturation process.

Smalls, 186/3 Suanphlu Soi 1, 095-585-1398

Umeshu Open for just one month, PrumPlum Umeshu Bar & Bistro takes inspiration from the plum wine (umenshu) bars of Japan. Taking over what was a chilled little cafe on Sri Bumphen, the space retains the same no-attitude atmosphere, serving out a concise menu that focuses on five different umeshu. At the top of the scale you’ve got Nanbu Bijin, an unsweetened sake umeshu from Iwate Prefecture for B180/shot or B2,150/bottle, but you can just as easily spend B550 on a bottle of Vietnamese Ume Tairiku apricot wine. PrumPlum also does its own blend for a cool B80 a shot, as well as three-shot tasting flights for B360. Come on an empty stomach—the bar snack menu’s huge.

PrumPlum Umeshu Bar & Bistro, 35/2 Sri Bumphen Rd., 02-249-3146. MRT Lumphini ■

Yoichi Nikka, 6/11 Sukhumvit Soi 39, 02-662-4270

NEW BAR Taproom Located in the rather tranquil Sukhumvit Soi 26, this newly opened beer bar’s selling point comes in the form of 26 rotating taps pouring premium brews from around the world. That means names like BrewDog, Stone, Coronado, Bear Republic, Hitachino, Flying Dog, EvilTwin, Heretic and Speakeasy starting at B140 for a small glass and finishing at B320 for a full pour. Every time a keg finishes (almost every day), something new gets hooked up to the tap. One month after opening, they’ve already gone through 50 kegs. The environment is friendly, with weekdays seeing live acoustic bands and, come the weekend, a party atmosphere with DJs. It also has a kitchen open till late dishing out arguably the best mac and cheese (B220) in town, along with plenty of other comfort dishes.

Behind Casa Lapin, 51 Sukhumvit Soi 26, 087-460-2626

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bites VEGETARIAN

Cut the Fat With the Chinese vegetarian festival underway (through Oct 9), we round up Bangkok’s best vegetarian-friendly burgers. By Natcha Sanguankiattichai and Carl Dixon

Firehouse

Veganerie Concept

Broccoli quinoa charcoal burger at Broccoli Revolution (B250)

BK PICK!

This stylish vegan restaurant made its name off the strength of this spectacular burger. The black bun makes it a social media star while the trending quinoa also grabs attention. The result doesn’t disappoint. Firm and flavorful, the broccoli quinoa patty gets help from mango-tomato salsa and dill spread, all sandwiched between a cranberry charcoal bun.

Veggie burger at 25 Degrees (B210)

BEST BUN

25 Degrees’ veggie burger hides in the “craft your own burger” section on the menu. It’s made with broccoli, onion, carrot, oatmeal and tofu, among other ingredients, and you can see traces of greens and grounded veggies in the burger. It’s also perfect for those with midnight burger cravings as the bar-restaurant stays open 24/7.

G/F, Pullman Bangkok Hotel G, 188 Silom Rd., 02-267-5272

899 Sukhumvit Soi 49, 02-662-5001. BTS Thong Lo

Pumpkin burger at Chomp (B180) The vegetarian-friendly Chomp offers a range of veggie salads, sandwiches and burgers. The pumpkin burger stands out with its thick pumpkin patty, stacked up with roast bell peppers, feta cheese and sundried tomatoes. Impossible to eat without getting dirty.

63-65 Samsen Soi 1, 02-629-2026

Veggie burger at Firehouse (B315)

Portobello mushroom burger at Beef & Shake (B155)

25 Degrees

We love this small burger joint by BTS Chong Nonsi for its mushroom burger, made from nothing but a big, whole Portobello mushroom cap, marinated in balsamic vinegar, fresh herbs, olive oil and garlic. Health-conscious eaters can opt to have it grilled instead of batter-fried.

93 Narathiwas Rd., 095-949-2646. BTS Chong Nonsi

BEST PATTY

One of Bangkok’s burger institutions doesn’t leave non-meat eaters behind. The bean-based patty has a near-perfect texture, and features a long list of other ingredients including mushrooms, peas, garlic, cheese and plenty of seasoning.

May’s veggie burger at May Veggie Home (B159)

Served between an English muffin, the non-mushy bean-based patty has a crispy crust—the best in this list—while inside, chopped mushroom imitates the feeling of munching on grounded meat.

We also like the subtle flavors of sesame and curry.

33/26 Sukhumvit Soi 11, 02-651-3643

8/3 Sukhumvit Soi 16, 097-247-6925. BTS Asok

Pulled pork burger at Veganerie Concept (B290)

Veggie burger at Jam (B120)

The fashionable vegan restaurant offers its own takes on dishes which would normally contain meat. Filled with deliciously smoky mushrooms, the vegan version of this classic sandwich looks quite like a regular pulled pork burger, but the taste is something completely different. You’ll have to chew a bit more. But that also means enjoying it longer.

BEST VALUE

There are no health pretensions with the veggie burger at this arty bar in Surasak. The patty is a heavily spiced mix of eggplant, mushroom, cabbage, carrots and onions that’s battered and then deepfried—an idea the chef owes to her mom, who devised it as a way to get her kids hooked on veggies. A dab of pineapple jam adds a welcome tinge of sweetness to the crunchy bite.

41 Charoen Rat Soi 1, 083-5451-833. BTS Surasak

Steps with Theera

Pumpkin, sweet potato and feta burger at Steps with Theera (B190) The heavier focus on food at this new spot by Theera results in many savory dishes including this veggie burger. Served in a wholewheat bun, the chef makes this dairy-, egg- and soy-free dense patty with pumpkin, sweet potato and feta cheese, and dressed with honey balsamic sauce. There are also pumpkin seeds to chew.

29/8 Ekkamai Soi 10, 02-381-6590 (Thai), 086-582-1774 (Eng)

35/2 Soi Methi Niwet, Sukhumvit Rd., 02-258-8489. BTS Phrom Phong

CAFE Three New Veggie-Friendly Spots

CHOMP DELI

STEPS WITH THEERA

LILOU CAFE

Chomp has a reputation for catering to vegetarians and their meat-eating buddies. Its sister deli retains the same soul. The rotating menu includes veggie soup, salad, sandwiches and lasagna.

This socially conscious endeavor offers training for people with special educational needs as well as food for people with dietary restrictions. You’ll find dishes that aren’t just vegetarian but also free of gluten, dairy products and soy.

Run by the force behind Laliart, this cozy cafe goes for comforting, home-cooked vegetarian-only dishes made using available seasonal ingredients. You can expect the like of soups, rice and brunch dishes.

133 Samsen Rd., 064-228-6220

29/8 Ekkamai Soi 10, 02-381-6590 (Thai), 086-582-1774 (Eng)

The Yard Hostel, Phahon Yothin Soi 5, 089-142-8203

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bites

OPEN DOOR

The Dock One of Bangkok’s biggest seafood players branches out to a new Thonglor restaurant.

The buzz: This seafood place is not a completely new venture.

Run by seafood distribution giant Thammachart Seafood, The Dock started off as counters in Emporium, Siam Paragon and Emquartier’s Gourmet Market, serving cooked seafood from the available fresh products. Now the group has taken a bigger move to open its first standalone restaurant.

The decor: Taking the front space of Thonglor’s Maze community mall, the restaurant is stylishly decked out in black and yellow in an effort to channel the spirit of sou’wester-wearing fishermen. The team from Whitespace (who also designed Tribeca, Sourced Grocers and Daily Roast) has filled it with other fishing-related elements like ropes and nets as well as informative illustrations of the regions where the seafood and wines come from. A bar sits in the middle of the space, adjacent to

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live seafood tanks showcasing 14 kinds of oyster as well as live lobsters and geoducks.

The food: Tasmanian oysters and French fine de claire oysters cost B99 each, before you get to Irish Gallagher (B289) and Japanese Akkeshi oysters (B299). Opt for an assorted plate of 12 for B1,795. Signature dishes from other branches include red king crab au gratin (baked red king crab with grated parmesan and cream, B1,999) and “Tsar of Ora King salmon a la minute” (baked and oak-smoked salmon fillet with basil sauce, B550), along with the restaurant’s own take on lobster linguine with tom yum sauce (B590) and spicy tuna tartare (B395) with mango, lemongrass and chili. Or you can select your own seafood from the list and have it weighed then grilled or steamed for you.

The drinks: The food menu suggests wines to pair with each dish. They start at B195 by the glass while cocktails are priced from B250.

Why you should care: Here, you get your fresh seafood straight from the distributor, meaning it gets to the restaurant sooner, and can be sold at a cheaper price. Natcha Sanguankiattichai Maze Thonglor, 148 Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor), 02-381-5373. Open daily 10am-10pm. www.fb.com/TheDockThonglor

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BK Magazine Friday, October 7, 2016

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10/3/16 6:17 PM

Bestow

Spoon & Straw

Daniel Thaiger

Sensi

NEW AND NOTED

Thai Craft With gingham accents, handmade bits and bobs, antique decorations, and twists on classic Thai dishes, Spoon & Straw (18/1,18/2 Ari Soi 2, 063-592-4636) is a homey little spot that’s bound to draw even more people to Ari. Aside from savory dishes like beef stew (B250), they also have a bunch of colorful drinks that are as good for you as they taste. With a variety of hands-on workshops covering ceramics, perfume-making, and embroidery, there’s plenty more to do here than just eating.

Too Good Dedicating itself to food that’s “healthy, lean and delicious,” Bestow (Chalermprakiat Rama 9 Rd., 090-245-9415) is the place to head if you’re looking to shed a few kilos. They design each dish so that it can be customized, so feel free to play around with various items on the menu. You start off with a base—tortilla, salad, spring roll sheet—then pick your meat from options like pork shoulder, smoked salmon and

TABLE TALK

chicken. Add veggies and a sauce and you’ve got a tasty meal you won’t have to feel guilty about later. There are also snacks including four types of savory and sweet nachos (starting B45). Everything on the menu also includes its calorie count, so you won’t have to do the math.

Burger Empire Ever-popular burger truck Daniel Thaiger has launched a permanent kiosk adjacent to Brew Beer and Ciders (30 Sukhumvit Soi 11, 02-255-5532). The news follows the opening of the brand's first sit-down restaurant, Crying Thaiger, earlier this month, where the menu extends to steaks and other proteins. Here, though, it's all about beef or lamb burgers.

Choose between the all-American "Thaiger" (with cheese, grilled onions, tomatoes and lettuce, B260/B280), Steve (with extra bacon, B280/B300) and Cowboy (double bacon, jalapenos and barbecue sauce, B310/B330). There are also fries (B150-200), Isaan sausages and larb moo tod (both B180).

Narathiwat Ratchanakarin Soi 17 Yaek 5, 02-117-1618.

Open Mon-Sat 6pm-midnight Sensi may seem off the beaten track, but the menu promises approachable innovation in a relatively unassuming form.

On top of the five- and seven-course tasting menus, new Napoli-born chef Marco Pacetta’s a la carte menu lets the perfectly cooked produce like wild turbot, Mediterranean sea bass and rossini-style beef take center stage. The standalone house in a leafy neighborhood is furnished by modernist P.Tendercool pieces which combine rustic materials, such as saddle-stitched leather and massive slabs of timber.

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Tessa Domzalski and Natcha Sanguankiattichai

BK Magazine Friday, October 7, 2016

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10/3/16 6:17 PM

bites & blends market Events

FOOD REVIEWS

The House on Sathorn

JW Marriott

BIRTHDAY BASH

COURAGEOUS BANGKOK

JW Marriott celebrates three of its restaurants’ anniversaries this month.

New York Steakhouse throws a speakeasy-themed cocktail party on Oct 1 and offers a special menu from Oct 2-15. Tsu and Nami celebrate their birthday from Oct 7-9 and throw a cocktail party on Oct 8.

This Oct 9 from 4-8pm, 20 of Bangkok’s leading chefs and major food and beverage suppliers gather at The House on Sathorn and serve food and drinks to raise awareness of sustainable living. Expect food from the likes of Gaggan, Bo.lan, Quince, The Oyster Bar and Little Beast, and drinks from Beervana, Wine Garage and Raitong Organics. A book of 10 tickets costs B1,800 at the door and proceeds go to Courageous Kitchen, a Bangkok-based charity organization that funds hill tribe children to gain basic kitchen handling, English and leadership skills.

2 Sukhumvit Rd., 02-656-7709. BTS Phloen Chit.

Central Embassy

RESTAURANT WEEK Central Chidlom and Central Embassy hold a month-long “restaurant week” from Oct 1-31 consisting of various promos. Every B1,500 spent gets you a voucher for Audrey, Chickalicious or Kyo, plus some credit card discounts and a chance to win a B10,000 voucher.

1027 Phloen Chit Rd., 02-793-7000. BTS Chit Lom 1031 Phloen Chit Rd., 02-119-7777. BTS Phloen Chit

BANGKOK FARMERS’ MARKET The foodies market where you can buy produce straight from the source takes place at Gateway Ekamai. Oct 8-9, 10am-6pm.

The House on Sathorn, 106 Sathorn Rd., 02-344-4000. BTS Chong Nonsi

CHEF ANDREA ORTU DINNER La Bottega di Luca’s head chef presents his hometown’s Sardinian cuisine in a five-course set menu this Oct 12. Expect dishes like lorighittas pasta and mirto-scented suckling pig. B2,900 per person (B1,200 extra for wine pairing).

49 Sukhumvit Soi 49, 02-204-1731

AN ULTIMATE CULINARY EXPERIENCE The House on Sathorn offers an eight-course wine-pairing dinner (B4,800) with signatures and new dishes from chef Fatih Tutak this Oct 12.

106 Sathorn Rd., 02-344-4025. BTS Chong Nonsi

982/22 Sukhumvit Rd., 02-108-2888. BTS Ekkamai

Fireplace Grill

HALF A CENTURY OF LEGENDARY DINING

Cafe Parisien HHHH

To celebrate Fireplace Grill’s 50th anniversary, the restaurant hosts lunch (B4,500) and dinner (B12,500) by German chef Thomas Buhner of three-Michelin-starred La Vie in Osnabruck, Germany this Oct 12-14.

Glasshouse at Sindhorn, 130-132 Wireless Rd., 02-650-9993. Open Mon-Sat 11:30am-2pm, 6-10pm. Corkage B1,000. F BBBB

Intercontinental, 973 Phloen Chit Rd., 02-656-0444. BTS Ratchadamri

BIG FOOD To celebrate World Food Day on Oct 16, 3-8pm, food and beverage purveyors throw a food festival on Chinatown’s Soi Nana to promote sustainable food. Confirmed vendors include Sloane’s, Seven Spoons, Mad Moa, 80/20 and Beervana. More information TBA. Soi Nana, Charoenkrung Rd. MRT Hua Lamphong

CIRQUE D’HIVER Hotel Muse celebrates its fifth birthday by offering circus performances alongside a four-course dinner (B2,900) for three nights at Medici from Oct 25-27.

Expect acrobatics with full lighting, music and dance, dazzling costumes and makeup.

This classic French restaurant is one of five outlets inside Sindhorn Tower’s new Glasshouse. A distinct building from the office complex, the elegant and light-filled space overlooking leafy Wireless Road retains all the charm of a standalone. The menu has been put together in consultation with Bangkok’s favorite Gallic chef, Herve Frerard (formerly of Le Beaulieu, #12 in Top Tables 2015), who hasn’t lost his touch.

Frerard may have more innovative compatriots in town, but no one nails tradition quite like him, be it a steak and fries (B1,250) or a humble plate of Morteau sausage with lentils (B650).

Before the raves, let’s get a couple niggles out of the way. The pastry is sub-par, meaning ho-hum desserts and bad bread. Nor does the service, while good, quite compare to Le Normandie or Water Library Chamchuri. Then again, neither do the prices. Lunch is only B690 for three courses, with dishes such as a flavorful mushroom soup (B280 a la carte) whose texture

55/555 Lang Suan Rd., 02-630-4000

SO AMAZING CHEFS The annual event returns with 16 chefs this Nov 11-18 at So Sofitel.

New faces include Paul Liebrandt, formerly of the two-Michelin-starred Corton in New York; Thierry Drapeau of Thierry Drapeau Logis de Chabotterie restaurant in France; and Jean-Baptiste Natali of Natali in France.

2 Sathorn Rd., 02-624-0000. MRT Lumphini

Sendai Ramen Mokkori HHHH 8/3 Thonglor Soi 2, 02-392-0811. Open daily 11am-2am. No corkage fee.

Advertise your business with us­ starting from B6,000 Email sales@asia-city.co.th or call 026249601

Credit card/Debit card payment accepted

In an age of prefab imported ramen chains that slot nicely into shopping malls, this dingy shophouse near the top of Thonglor stands apart. We’ve been dozens of times, and can only remember once when the owner—his face blazoned on menus and promo flyers as he strums his sieve like a banjo—hasn’t personally been manning the stoves, bellowing out an “ irasshaimase!” to everyone who walks in the door. It’s not just on atmosphere where Sendai scores some serious kudos, either. The menu kicks off with karamiso ramen—a spicy broth made from miso which the Japanese will tell you is the hardest ramen style to master. Here the taste is rich and stewy, while the dollop of slightly sweet, salty chili paste gives the bowl a genuine kick. The dish starts at just B160, and for that you

get a mammoth portion even by ramen standards. What the menu doesn’t tell you is that you can actually request a “small size” for B140, which should be plenty enough for most stomachs. We’ve had more delicately prepared bowls of ramen before, no doubt—the yolk of your egg is not perfectly fudgy, the noodles don’t have an al dente bite, and the broth becomes grainy towards the bottom—but nitpicking Sendai over the little details ignores that this is one of the most satisfying ramen experiences in the city. It’s a place where density and comfort rule over delicacy. Same story with the rest of the menu, where tempura prawns (B170 for seven) coated in heavy batter and gyoza (B80 for five) wrapped up in chewy, oily dough are enough to send you into a starchdriven food coma. The okonomiyaki— Osaka’s demi-glace and mayo-strewn potato pancake—is also far from the best, though still delicious enough to have you going back for more. The only time we’d recommend you skirt Sendai and choose one of its many neighbors is if you’re after katsu curry, in which case Grand Ramen across the street has you more than covered. For everything else, Sendai gets the nod.

Dishes can be a long way from perfection, but the place has something just as important: charm.

Ratings

Price guide

PPPP Forget it PPPP Only if you’re in the neighborhood PPPP A pleasant dining experience PPPP Not to be missed

B BB BBB BBBB

BK pays for its meal and does not call ahead or sit with the chef.

26

keeps a bit of grit to underscore the shitake that went into making it. Also in that set, the perfectly cooked lamb shoulder comes with a charred crust, tender meat, a bed of fresh peas (not the mushy stuff) and a lovely jus. Isn’t sauce the very essence of French cuisine? The port wine reduction coating a beef cheek on a bed of celeriac puree (B850) is just amazing, thanks to an almost intoxicating density of meaty flavors. You’ll have to get the B1,900 menu to get a taste of that, still a really appealing price point for a four-course dinner that comes complete with an amuse bouche and two appetizers. On our last visit, we had a perfectly cooked scallop with an excellent Nantua (crayfish) sauce (B650) followed by the onion soup (B390)—a thick, dark magma of onions and Comte cheese with a slice of gratinated bread on the side. And just to be clear, while the service doesn’t quite treat you like Monsieur le President, Cafe Parisien still ticks all the right boxes: warm plates, breadcrumbs swiped off after your mains, fancy cutlery, thick tablecloths, attentive but unobtrusive wait staff. Admittedly, the a la carte prices remain steep, but stick to the sets and Cafe Parisien is a wonderful package. Do note that, as of October 2016, Frerard’s contract ended a month ago (not that it has hurt standards) and a new French chef is slated to take over. Our tip for him: if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.

Under B500 B500-900 B900-1,500 B1,500 and up Price per person, including one drink, appetizer, main course, dessert, charges and tax.

Symbols

H Reservations recommended F Parking available E Dress requirements G Live music

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OVEN ROASTED DINING DELIGHTS Roasted meats cooked to perfection and served directly from our oven.

Enjoy variety of roasted meats, such as Beef Striploin, Turkey, BBQ Spare Ribs and many more dishes that will appease all appetites.

Every Sunday - Thursday, dinner buffet THB 1,590++ per person Flavors, M Floor For reservations, call 0 2125 5010

518/8 Ploenchit Road, Bangkok t. 0 2125 5000 renaissancebangkok.com

20160929 BK_Mag_Oven Roasted.indd 1

renaissancebangkok

renaissancebkk

renaissancebangkokhotel

@renaissancebkk

9/29/16 4:20 PM

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now SAT Live and Local Indie music streaming service Fungjai returns with the fourth edition of its live concert series this Oct 8. Taking over Voice Space (BBD Building, 197 Viphavadi Rangsit), Hed Sod 4 packs together some of the top names in Thai indie music right now, including Chanudom, Mattnimare, Rasmee, The Yers, 7thScene and Greasy Cafe. Tickets are B800 at 7-Eleven stores or B1,200 at the door.

FRI Hotel Lush Bangkok has its fair share of music festivals, but none takes over an entire hotel like Lush Bangkok Music Festival. This Oct 7 will see Pullman Grande Sukhumvit (30 Sukhumvit 21, BTS Asok) play host to 32 DJs and 7 bands performing across 5 floors. The music will cover the full spectrum with EDM, house, hip-hop and techno from DJs like Dan Buri, Tek Harrington, Unda and Koish, and rock sounds from the likes of Degaruda, Stylish Nonsense and Sangsom Massacre. Tickets are B900 from Ticketmelon.com.

THU Enter the Maze Skywalk Ratchaprasong (between BTS National Stadium and Siam, Rama 1 Rd.) turns into an art hot spot for a monthlong exhibition dubbed Ratchaprasong Art Maze: Urban By Nature. From Oct 13-Nov 13, Thai contemporary artists like Montri Toemsombat, Haritorn Akarapatand Ruangsak Anuwatwimon will transform the urban space with nature-inspired installations to add a touch of green to your Siam walk.

FRI Cracking Show As part of the month-long International Festival of Dance and Music (running through Oct 19), German classical ballet company Karlsruhe Ballet will perform the world-famous piece The Nutcracker this Oct 7 at Thailand Cultural Centre (Ratchadaphisek Rd.). The Christmas-themed spectacle will involve 31 dancers prancing and pirouetting to Tchaikovsky's music. Tickets are B1,000-B3,500, available on Thaiticketmajor.

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BK Magazine Friday, October 7, 2016

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10/3/16 4:52 PM

NIGHTLIFE

SHREWSBURY CELEBRATES 10th YEAR OF Rossko

LAST NIGHT OF THE

PROMS CONCERT

The Best of British!

Nakadia

Dogs on the Turns

Celebrating 10 years of Last Night of the Proms at Shrewsbury and over 120 years of Proms history and more than a decade of exceptional music-making at Shrewsbury. Bringing Stage and Broadway to life in one unique event.

Thursday 27th October 2016 LUSH - BANGKOK MUSIC FESTIVAL

NAKADIA AT LIVE RCA BANGKOK

32 DJs and 7 bands perform across 5 floors of the hotel. The service area will be transformed into an indoor market, while the rooftop golf range will serve as a dance floor. Oct 7, 8:30pm. Pullman Grande Sukhumvit, 30 Sukhumvit Soi 21 (Asoke), 02-204-4000. B700-2,000 (includes two drinks). MRT Sukhumvit.

The female Thai DJ returns to her home country after a 7-month world tour. Oct 8, 9pm. Live RCA Bangkok, RCA, Rama 9 Rd., 098-974-6974. B300.

PHATFUNK & ABSOLUT FEAT. COMMIX (METALHEADZ)

Commix, the 170bpm creative project of George Levings (and formerly Guy Brewer), performs with support from DJs Azek, DeLorean and Instinct. Oct 7, 9pm. Live RCA Bangkok, RCA, Rama 9 Rd., 098974-6974. B300-350 (includes 2-hour open bar).

BEN GOLDMAN & EKANAN

The two long-time underground music veterans from Chicago and Phuket/Bangkok spin funky house and dirty techno back-to-back. Oct 7, 9pm. Mustache Bar, 544/5 Ratchadaphisek Soi 7, 081844-7080. Free.

RED ZONE WITH GIZMO (MADRID, ES)

The Spanish DJ performs a combination of boogie, Afro and big beat in a set guaranteed to make you move. Oct 7, 9pm.

Studio Lam, Sukhumvit Soi 51, 02-2616661. B100-200. BTS Thong Lo. GRATTS (ENSEMBLE/BE)

The well-traveled Belgian DJ brings his good-time house, techno and disco to Bangkok. Oct 7, 10pm. Whiteline, Silom Soi 8, 087-061-1117. B200. BTS Chong Nonsi.

NVRST002 - XPEDITION AURORA

Dogs on the Turns (Unst Unst/Neverest Records) celebrates his new EP, Howl Inn, with support from Dan Buri (Neverest Records) and Aurora Visuals by Taychin Dunn. Oct 7, 10pm. Glow, 96/4-5 Sukhumvit Soi 23, 086-614-3355. B350. MRT Sukhumvit.

HASTA LA DISCO FEAT. ALBERT CABRERA (LATIN RASCALS, NYC)

Shrewsbury International School Bangkok Dinner and drinks from 5.45pm. Concert begins 7.15pm.

Information and booking: http://bit.ly/LNOP2016 Enquiries: tickets@shrewsbury.ac.th or 02 675 1888 www.shrewsbury.ac.th

LNOP 2016 Posters + Banner.indd 22

06/09/2016 16:14:57

The New York dance music veteran, and one half of the Latin Rascals, spins disco, freestyle, Latin and house sounds. Oct 8, 10pm. Revolucion Cocktail, 50 Sathorn Soi 10. Free. BTS Chong Nonsi.

CREW LOVE IS TRUE LOVE (GOOD-BYE PARTY)

Head to the upstairs Safe Room at Whiteline for sets by Boogie G from Nite Ride, Roulio Aittouares from Tir Croise, Stu Grant/RedShifter from Mchnwrks and Tristan Kino from Indeed. Oct 8, 10pm.

Whiteline, Silom Soi 8, 087-061-1117.

Free. BTS Chong Nonsi.

GLOW SUNDAZE WITH STATUS DEEPER ALL NIGHT LONG

The weekly party sees Status Deeper, Dogs on the Turns and Junesis spin warm and emotional deep house. Oct 9, 10pm.

Glow, 96/4-5 Sukhumvit Soi 23, 086614-3355. B250 (includes two drinks).

MRT Sukhumvit.

GLOW WITH ROSSKO [FUSE LONDON, UK]

The London-based DJ makes his Asia debut with quality deep house and techno.

With support from Boris Rubin. Oct 14, 10pm. Glow, 96/4-5 Sukhumvit Soi 23, 086-614-3355. B350 includes one drink.

MRT Sukhumvit.

KOLOUR WAREHOUSE PARTY

A 10-hour day/night event in a modern industrial warehouse promising two international artists (TBA), indoor and outdoor stages and a craft beer garden in an honor of Oktoberfest. Tigger Twins Studio, 5 Ramkhamhaeng Rd., 02-7323086. Oct 15, 3pm. B600-800.

BK Magazine Friday, October 7, 2016

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10/3/16 4:53 PM

now LIVE MUSIC

TRACK OF THE WEEK

“Nick of Time” by Henri Dunant ft. The Good Day Ghosts

Singto Numchok

Paradise Bangkok Molam International Band

classical

gigs

PIANO RECITAL BY ANDREAS HENKEL

HEDSOD 4 CONCERT BY FUNGJAI

The German pianist performs a recital of pieces by Bach, Mozart, Liszt, Ravel and Kapustin with proceeds going towards The Gift of Life Foundation and The Bone Marrow Transplant Club, Chulalongkorn Hospital. Oct 16, 4pm.

Sala Sudasiri Sobha, Lad Phrao Soi 41, 02-541-8662. B700.

Returning for the fourth year, the concert features a compilation of quality indie Thai bands, including Chanudom, Mattnimare, Rasmee, The Yers, 7thScene and Greasy Cafe. Oct 8, 4pm. Voice Space, BBD Building, 197 Viphavadi Rangsit, 02-261-3883.

B500-1,200.

concerts

YOUTH VOICE VOL. 4

CHANG MUSIC CONNECTION PRESENTS THE GRANDSLAM LIVE BODYSLAM WITH ORCHESTRA

The popular rock band performs with Siam Sinfonietta, which comprises over 50 classical musicians.

Show dates are Oct 1, 2, 7, 8 and 9.

Through Oct 9, 7pm. Muang Thai GMM Live House, 8/F, CentralWorld, 999/1 Rama 1 Rd. B1,200-3,500. BTS Chit Lom. ESCAPE THE FATE LIVE IN BANGKOK 2016

The Las Vegas post-hardcore band with four full-length albums perform in Bangkok. For tickets call 02-610-7995 or 086-663-4054. Oct 11, 8pm. Hollywood Awards, 72/2 Ratchadaphisek Soi 8, 02-246-4311.

B1,500-1,800.

CARABAO CONCERT

The legendary Thai band perform a relatively intimate live concert. Book your ticket in advance at 02-9605511-2 Oct 11, 10:30pm. Tawandang Brewhouse, 462/61 Rama 3 Rd., 02678-1114-6. B200.

Greasy Cafe

SOUND SPACE NO. 2

Thai bands perform covers of their favorite bands including The Drink Hand Drunks (Radiohead), The Yellow Submarine (Oasis) and White Riot (Arctic Monkeys). Oct 14, 7:30pm. The Rock Pub, Hollywood Street, 93/26-28 Phaya Thai Rd., 02-251-9980, 086977-0621. B200 (includes one drink).

BTS Ratchathewi.

The legendary Thai alternative rock band celebrates their 22nd aniversary with a big concert. For tickets call 02-262-3838. Oct 15, 6pm. Impact Arena, Muang Thong Thani, 99 Popular Rd., 02-833-4455. B1,000-3,500.

BLACKHEAD LIVE AT PARKING TOYS

KARMA KLIQUE X ABSOLUT PRES. KARMA KAMP

A NIGHT OF BLUES WITH YAMIN

The local blues mainstay perform a two-hour set of originals and covers. Oct 11, 10pm. Havana Social, Sukhumvit Soi 11, 087-066-7711.

Free. BTS Nana.

TABASCO LIVE AT CUBIC 63

Sanamluang Music's electronic poprock band performs live with special promotions on Jameson bottles. Oct 13, 7pm. Cubic 63, 61/2, Sukhumvit Soi 63. Free.

www.fb.com/HenriDunantOfficial

THEATER

LIPOVITAN-D PRESENTS MODERNDOG 22

The gig series presenting the wildest young punk rock bands this time features Recap (Chiang Mai), Anti Pants, Pistols99 and Lord Liar Boots. Oct 9, 7:30pm. Speakerbox, Ratchada Train Market, Ratchadaphisek Rd., 084-662-6642. Free. MRT Thailand Cultural Centre.

The classic rock band perform a '90s-themed gig with support from singer Sukunya Mikel. Oct 11, 9pm.

Parking Toys, 17/22 Ram Indra Soi 14, 02-907-2228. B300 includes one drink.

Thai indie label Rats Records (see page 6) has just unveiled its latest signing, Henri Dunant, whose debut single sounds like nothing else on the local music scene. "Nick of Time" (feat. The Good Day Ghosts) is a spaced-out indie anthem with a strong trip-hop feel. The vocals initially reminded us of a male Lana Del Rey, while the high-pitched guitar sounds bring to mind Two Door Cinema Club. Such comparison points don't really do this dark and driving track justice, though. Henri Dunant is the project of Max Jenmana, who chose the quirky alias in reference to the Red Cross founder who also has a Bangkok road named after him. The lyrics deal with a stressed time in Max's life when his thoughts turned back to happier times with his two good friends (aka "The Good Day Ghosts"). Deciding to do something fun together again, the trio came up with "Nick of Time," which features lines like "December skies remind me of you" a reference to the fact all three were born in December. Keep an eye out for Henri Dunant's full album to come next year on Rats Records. By Choltanutkun Tun-atiruj

music festivals A 24-hour musical voyage held in a secret location in Saraburi province with a lineup including Marine Caillat, Unda, Pyra, Harrington, Nemo Cools, Boris Rubin, Dylan Griffin, James What, Dan Buri, Sunju Hargun, Superstar Panda and Nosleep Crew. Oct 1516, 2pm. B1,000 at bit.ly/2dpEq6P. MELODY OF LIFE 10

A 2-day outdoor music festival featuring 20 bands including The Paradise Bangkok Molam International Band, Srirajah Rockers, Singto Numchok and Tattoo Color, alongside workshops, an art market and talks. Oct 15-16, 12am. CentralWorld, 4, 4/1-4/2, 4/4, Ratchadamri Rd., 02-635-1111.

Free. BTS Chit Lom.

Romeo and Juliet

THE NUTCRACKER - CHRISTMAS CAROL

German classical ballet company Karlsruhe Ballet presents the world-famous piece set to Tchaikovsky's music in which 31 dancers come together under the artistic direction of world-famous former prima ballerina Birgit Keil. Oct 7, 7:30pm. Thailand Cultural Centre, Ratchadaphisek Rd., 02-262-3456.

B1,000-3,500 from Thaiticketmajor. MRT Thailand Cultural Centre.

DANS LE NOIR

A detective play directed by Damkerng Thitapiyasak following the story of a young actress preparing for her role in a crime movie based on an infamous murder case in her area. Performance is in Thai with English subtitles. Through Oct 9, 8pm. Thong Lor Art Space, 58/14-15 Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor). B590.

ROMEO & JULIET

French choreographer Angelin Preljocaj, along with the Ballet Preljocaj troupe, present a romantic and contemporary retelling of the famous Shakespeare play set in a totalitarian region of an Eastern European country. Oct 12, 7:30pm.

Thailand Cultural Centre, Ratchadaphisek Rd., 02-262-3456. B800-3,000.

MRT Thailand Cultural Centre.

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10/3/16 4:53 PM

PLAN AHEAD Wonderfruit Extends Lineup

Shura

Wonderfruit, the four-day festival of art, music, food and wellness set to take place this Dec 15-18, has just announced its second-wave music lineup.

Arguably the most exciting name on the list is English synth-pop singer/songwriter Shura, best known for her track "Touch," which has exceeded 26 million views on YouTube. Others announced include UK soul singer Lianne La Havas, American rock band Blitzen Trapper and Brooklyn experimental acoustic duo Buke and Gase. They'll join already announced big international acts like English drum 'n' bass group Rudimental and local musicians Srirajah Rockers and Rasmee Isan Soul.

On top of the music, there will also be art installations from Greg Fleishman, Tom Potisit, Jitjer and Adam Pollina, while workshops will come courtesy of TCDC Commons x Archivist, boxer Bua Kaw, Sampran Riverside and more.

Meanwhile, an exciting roundup of chefs has also been added to the Wonderfeast guest list, including Peppina/Appia's Paolo Vitaletti, Soul Food Mahanakorn/Appia's Jarrett Wrisley and the team from F.A.C.T. Collective.

In keeping with this year's "Eco Heroes" theme, you can also expect talks from various sustainability projects including Trash Heroes, Plastic Ocean, Envision Corporation, Natural Capital Alliance and more.

Back for its third year, this edition of Wonderfruit is set to take place between Dec 15-18 at The Fields at Siam Country Club, Pattaya. Phase 2 adult tickets are B3,8005,500, available at www.wonderfruitfestival.com.

ART HIGHLIGHT Soldiers/Senility

This Oct 10, filmmaker Apichatpong Weerasethakul (best known for his Cannes-winning film Uncle Boonmee Who Can Recall His Past Lives) presents his project “Soldiers/ Senility,” which aims to bridge the gap between the old and young generations of Thailand.

He’ll host a talk session on the day in which Thai retirees from different backgrounds will share their memories and experiences during the major historical changes the country has encountered. The talk will be moderated by Apichatpong himself alongside Silpakorn philosophy professor Komkrit Uitekkeng.

“Soldiers/Senility” is the final installment of The Reading Room’s six-month-long “Sleepover” project, an initiative inviting artists to take over the library space to host interactive art events.

The event will be conducted in Thai. Free entry.

The Reading Room, 2 Silom Soi 19.

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now ART

SPORT

AWKWARD RELATIONSHIP

BETWEEN MY LINES

Young Thai illustrator Tae Yarvit presents a collection of playful sketches depicting stories from his personal life.

The opening night features experimental music from Stylish Nonsense, Plern Pan Perth and DJ MM Kosum.

Oct 7-23. Jam, 41 Charoen Rat Soi 1, 083-5451-833.

BTS Surasak

Artist Sonea Rattanaruangsup captures the impulsive nature of emotions in a series of brightly colored, pop art-style paintings. Through 31. Neilson Hays Library, 195 Surawong Rd., 02-233-1731.

The Music Run

Sketchers Blacklight Run

Bangkok Marathon

THE MUSIC RUN THAILAND 2016

The 5km fun run-slash-music festival returns to Bangkok, blasting a different genre of music at every kilometer, including rock, hip-hop, old school, dance and pop. There also promises to be a big music festival featuring live performances from local musicians after you cross the finish line. Nov 5, 6pm. Suanluang Rama IX Public Park, Sukhumvit Soi 103, 02-328-8982. B500-800.

THE EXHIBITION WAS CALLED OFF DUE TO DEATH

Artist Chaisak Seeradang presents his collection of intricate paintings representing life's fleeting moments.

Oct 7-31. Chomp, 63-65 Samsen Soi 1, 02-629-2026.

MIDNIGHT THOUGHT

Artist JP Pemapsorn presents a series of colorful, imaginative paintings capturing his travel adventures. Oct 8-Nov 8. Midnice Gallery, Chok Chai Soi 8 (Chok Chai), 086-282-0282.

TMB ING PARK RUN 2016

TMB Bank returns for their annual run, offering 2.2km, 5.5km and 10km where runners are invited to raise funds from friends through social media to support their run, with proceeds donated to children around the country in need of heart surgery. Register at www.makethedifference.org/parkrun. Nov 6, 5:30am. Kamphaengphet 3 Rd. (in front of Rot Fai Park entrance). B400.

BANGKOK MARATHON 2016

The city's biggest marathon returns to the Old Town for its 29th year. Expect some 30,000 runners to take on the challenge of 42km, 21km, 10km or 4.5km distances. Register at www.bkkmarathon.com Nov 20, 2am. Grand Palace, Na Phra Lan Rd., 02-623-5500 ext.3100. B500-1,000.

SKETCHERS BLACKLIGHT RUN THAILAND 2016

NOVEL WITHOUT A NAME

ONE FOR THE BIRDS

Chiang Mai-based artist Sutthirat Supaparinya's take on the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War features mixed media art installations including collages, videos and soundscapes. Oct 8-Nov 22. WTF Gallery & Cafe, 7 Sukhumvit Soi 51, 02-662-6246. BTS Thong Lo

Natanel Gluska presents furniture designs that use sustainably sourced natural materials like wood and copper to create household pieces that resemble woodland creatures. Oct 15-Nov 13. S.A.C. Subhashok The Art Centre, Sukhumvit Soi 39.

The self-proclaimed "brightest 5K run" hosts a fun run that focuses more on glow in the dark colors, lazers and EDM music than the actual running, inviting runners of all experience to get covered head to toe in neon paint as they take on the track. Register at blacklightrun.in.th. Nov 26, 5pm. Makkasan Airport Rail Link Station, MRT Phetchaburi. B1,200.

RUN FOR KING 2016

Celebrate Father's Day with a healthy exercise in the 22nd edition of this annual run, in which all funds are donated to the less fortunate children of public schools around the country. Offering 2km and 10.5km distances. Register at www.runforking.com. Dec 5, 5:30am. Lumphini Park, Rama 4 Rd. MRT Lumphini/Silom. B400.

STARTUP RUN 2016

A charity run to promote a healthy, active lifestyle as well as raise funds for various organizations aiding disabled children around the country. Offering 3.5km and 10km runs. Register at www.kaodee.com/startuprun2016. Dec 11, 6am. Rajamangala National Stadium, Sports Authority of Thailand, 285 Ramkhamhaeng Rd., 02-369-0999. B400.

SELFIE SERIES

VILLAINS BY LUKE SATORU

Chumpol Kamwanna's latest series of paintings captures the phenomenon of selfies and how they have taken over society, exploring themes of narcicissm, techonology and how every moment in life needs to be recorded. Through Oct 30. Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC), 939 Rama 1 Rd., 02-214-6630-8. BTS National Stadium

The Thai/Japanese mural and tattoo artist, who also owns Black Pig Tattoo BKK, takes over the wall space at the trendy restaurant-slash-shoe store. The mural will consist of large and small re-imagined layouts of villain characters from popular children's movies and stories. Through Oct 31, 8pm. Knock, Room 333/1, 2-3/F, Sukhumvit Soi 55 (Thonglor), 081-375-6625.

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now FILM

Opening THE GIRL ON THE TRAIN (USA)

Mystery/Thriller. A recently divorced woman (Emily Blunt) becomes entangled in the disappearance of someone who lives in a house that her train passes every day.

WE CAN TELL YOUR STORY.

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Asia City Media Group’s custom solutions can win you a bigger audience and deeper engagement.

Magazines & Guides

Websites & Apps

BAAN MAI KHAO

GUIDE TO PHUKET

SNOWDEN (USA)

MASTERMINDS (USA)

Biography/Drama. Ex-National Security Agency employee Edward Snowden (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) leaks classified information on foreign governments, terrorist groups and the lives of ordinary Americans.

Comedy. An ordinary truck driver (Zach Galifianakis) bored with the routine of life gets lured into the heist of a lifetime by a group of unreliable comrades.

U N T O U C H E D L O C AT I O N S UNIQUE EXPERIENCES U N F O R G E T TA B L E M O M E N T S

Upcoming

MAX STEEL (UK)

UNDER THE SHADOW (UK)

Action/Sci-Fi. A 16-year-old boy with energy-harnessing powers joins forces with an alien companion to form a new superhero team. Oct 13

Horror/Thriller. In the midst of the Iran-Iraq war, a mother and daughter struggle to cope, while a mysterious evil spirit begins to haunt their home.

Oct 13

THE MAGNIFICENT SEVEN (USA)

THE ACCOUNTANT (USA)

Western. Bounty hunter Sam Chisolm (Denzel Washington) recruits a group of gunmen to help him hunt down a greedy industrialist seizing control of the town’s gold. Oct 13

Drama. A mathematics genius (Ben Affleck) working as a freelance accountant for dangerous criminal organizations gets involved in a high-stakes discrepancy that could put his life on the line. Oct 13

SPECIAL SCREENINGS This Oct 9, Jam welcomes Chinese filmmaker and activist Fan Popo to host a special screening of his 2012 documentary Mama Rainbow. The film follows six Chinese mothers of homosexual children as they come to terms with having a gay kid in a conservative country. An open discussion with Fan Popo follows the screening.

Screening starts at 8pm. Free entry. Jam, 41 Charoen Rat Soi 1, 083-5451-833.

BTS Surasak

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