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Reality series 'Bandstival' brings Taiwan’s indie music and youth culture to the screen

Reality series 'Bandstival' brings Taiwan’s indie music and youth culture to the screen

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Bandstival, a bold new music reality series, is shining a light on Taiwan’s thriving indie music scene — no gimmicks, just pure performance and creativity.

Now streaming on YouTube and airing across Taiwanese platforms, the 15-episode series unites 24 Taiwanese bands, each bringing a distinct sound and story. From buzzy newcomers to award-winning veterans, Bandstival is a showcase of what’s shaping Taiwan’s alternative music future.

Among the acts:

  • Wonfu, the beloved “happy rock” icons known for their cheeky wit and Golden Melody nominations.

  • A_Root, fusing traditional Taiwanese instruments with jazz and electronic sounds — fresh off stages in Paris, Mexico, and Singapore.

  • JADE, a rock duo led by top Mandopop producer Dudu Kangyu Lu, blending Britpop with electronic grit.

  • KAKI ACRYLIC, the brainchild of actor-singer Rhydian Vaughan, delivering sun-soaked indie rock with unexpected punch.

  • Lilium, masters of modern folklore, merging metal, bossa nova, and traditional opera into award-winning sonic adventures.

  • Who Cares, breakout stars with 10M+ streams and a sold-out Zepp New Taipei show — capturing youth angst in alt-rock form.

Rather than pit bands against each other, Bandstival invites audiences to follow their journeys through seven challenges and festival-style performances. Shot with dynamic multi-stage sets and top-tier live sound, the show aims to translate real gig energy to the screen.

Guest appearances from icons like Ma Nien Hsien and YouTuber-vocalist Sandra Hsu add flair, commentary, and even anime-inspired moments.

And if you can’t wait to hear more — the show has dropped a 12-track live album from Episode 1, now streaming everywhere.