A Night with New Mongrels

Artists like ABANGSAPAU are few and far between. Best known for donning a sarung, the Malay-Sikh artist makes it a point to guide anyone who cares to listen on a journey beyond expectation or limitation. 

A firm believer in self-expression, ABANGSAPAU wants his music to serve as a mirror for both himself and his listeners. From upbeat and exhilarating flows to sombre, often sobering musings, there is no one way to categorise his music. Yet, the intention is clear: to bring comfort and solace to all who listen. 

In 2023, ABANGSAPAU founded the Singaporean music movement New Mongrels, with the aim of bridging communities and elevating Singaporean music. 

El Zopo Nino, the RSVR boy, the masterpiecer, are just some of the monikers for independent artist AE$OP CA$H. Representing the RSVR, El Zopo embodies his message with a fervour, utilising vivid storytelling and infectious energy to paint a picture for his listeners. Already a staple in the Singapore rap scene, Zopo’s cult-like following can be attributed to hard hitting bangers like KILT, authentic meaningful records such as TENGGELAM, and his often-explosive live performances. Recently parting ways with the local record label HVT records, AE$OP CA$H now focuses on growing his own camp—RSVRSSS records. 

On the cusp of adolescent dreams and young adult life, CURB began as a collection of voice notes exchanged during the circuit breaker, among friends. While rooted in emo-rock sonics, the group continuously finds ways to develop authentic energies, channeling them towards fluidity and versatility in their music. Fervent shouts and overdriven guitars make up the foundation of the band’s raucous sound, complemented by sincere and personal-lead narratives. 

The yearning for self-exploration and expression, paired with an incessant fear of loneliness, fuels Fatbear’s music. It retains a sense of connection to the past but embraces newfound awareness of the present. Feeling a close resonance with the indie sound of the early 90s to 2000s, Fatbear aims to emulate a time when human connection felt arguably more genuine and valued, capturing the fleeting nature of life.