Showing 1 - 10 of 46
Farewell to a maestro
Life, John Clewley, Published on 10/04/2024
» The world of molam has been in mourning since news emerged that Thailand's greatest phin player Thongsai Thap Thanon passed away on March 20 at his home in Warin Chamrap district, Ubon Ratchathani, at the age of 77. The phin is a two- or three-stringed Isan Lao lute that is part of the trinity of molam instruments, along with the iconic khaen (free reed bamboo mouth organ) and the sor (fiddle).
A year of K-pop
Life, Suwitcha Chaiyong, Published on 26/12/2023
» One of the biggest K-pop stories in December has been the enlistment of the remaining four members of BTS for mandatory military service. On Dec 11, RM, the leader of BTS, and V, the vocalist, began their enlistment. The following day, two other vocalists, Jimin and Jungkook, entered training camps in Yeoncheon together. As the world's biggest boy band goes on hiatus, it will be interesting to see which rival claims the top spot in the absence of BTS.
The latest in K-pop news this week
Life, Suwitcha Chaiyong, Published on 18/05/2023
» Here's the latest roundup of K-pop news this week. First, two Thai members have joined YG Ent's new girl group; Aespa has released their third mini-album; and F.T. ISLAND is returning to Bangkok.
Country comes to the city
Life, John Clewley, Published on 31/01/2023
» The All-Thidsa Molam Band was in Bangkok this past weekend to perform at the Thailand International Jazz Conference. World Beat caught up with band last Friday when they played two sets at Isan Spicy BBQ, a rooftop bar at the Jim Thompson Art Center.
Rocking the capital
Life, Tatat Bunnag, Published on 11/01/2023
» At 7.50pm last Saturday, nearly 50,000 fans also known as Blinks began to bring out their pink hammer-shaped light sticks that suddenly brightened the dark Bangkok sky, filling the large open-air space of Suphachalasai National Stadium on Rama 1. This was followed by the echoing sounds of screaming fans as Ji-soo, Jennie, Rosé, and Lisa finally appeared on stage. Some fans had actually waited for them since early morning that day.
Around the world
Life, Suwitcha Chaiyong, Published on 20/12/2022
» The past year was a good one for the K-pop industry. Both the kings and queens of K-pop -- BTS and Blackpink -- celebrated their successful breakthrough in the American music industry.
A dedicated disciple
Life, Ploenpote Atthakor, Published on 10/10/2022
» When Bollywood actor Gagan Malik accepted the role of Buddha in the epic film Sri Siddhartha Gautama almost a decade ago, little was he aware his life would be forever changed.
Bangkok reimagined
Guru, Pornchai Sereemongkonpol, Published on 23/09/2022
» You may already have heard of Bangkok being compared to Blade Runner made real, given our neon signs, skyscrapers, dingy alleys, huge billboards, elevated motorways and busy roads. Flaws and all, Bangkok has inspired many artists to reimagine it in their own way, shining a different light on our beloved capital city. Its unique aesthetic has captured the imagination of many artists and filmmakers, and Guru has compiled a few noteworthy reimaginations of Bangkok for your entertainment.
Stirring national pride
Guru, Suthivas Tanphaibul, Published on 09/09/2022
» Although being a world leader is not Thailand's strong suit. We, Thais, do know how to find memorable ways to roar our name proudly and make sure others keep us alive in their thoughts. According to the Guinness World Records, many Thais have beaten world records in presenting Thai culture creatively and unexpectedly, which has made us proud. Guru has a small complication of what we have archived.
A beautiful word of caution
Life, Suwitcha Chaiyong, Published on 15/12/2021
» As part of the 2021 UOB Painting of the Year (Thailand) competition, artists were allowed to create paintings without restrictions in terms of imagination and ingenuity since there was no specific theme. The results were rewarding. The winner of UOB Painting of the Year (Thailand) in the established artist category, Vachira Kornthong, created a mixed media on canvas painting, Land Of Happiness, which depicts the hidden beauty and abundant happiness found in nature. Land Of Happiness stood out with its use of vibrant colours combined with a fabric applique technique. The message of nature conservation that the artwork implies also touched viewers.