The first time Onra played at XXX was perhaps the most crowded night ever at the Sai Wan basement location. Hong Kong’s large French population turned out en masse to support the young beatmaker, who initially made a splash with a series of mixtapes that combined abstract beats with samples from old Chinese and Vietnamese records.
Though Onra’s musical style continues to evolve, he’s still very much inspired by the past. His recent works have taken cues from both the 80’s and 90’s eras.
Much like others in the beatmaker scene around the world, the 90’s Hip Hop sound and production techniques have provided a foundation from which to build.
Unlike many producers however, Onra has often resisted the easy road, staying away from cliched, sample-laden tracks, and instead has continued to develop his sound in new directions. After creating the popular Chinoiseries, he changed things up, never retreading the same ground, or tackling similar material.
That said, for some reason we still prefer his earlier works with sparse beats built around a few key samples. His recent material working with rappers doesn’t quite reach the same type of perfection as his more stripped-down instrumentals.
For a taste of Onra’s talent for creating original music and remixes, visit his extensive Soundcloud page.
If his first live performance in H.K. is any indication, you can expect a strong turnout and an enthusiastic crowd up for the raw basement vibe and heavy beats.
A full cast of DJs will join him on Saturday including Fun Key, Achun and XXX residents, Enso, Yao, and Kid Fresh.
This is also the final event at the Sai Wan location of XXX, before it moves to a new address in Kowloon! Stay tuned for an update with information about their new digs.
Recommended!
Onra live set at XXX!
Saturday, January 2nd, 2016
XXX Gallery
Basement, 353 Des Voeux Road West
Sai Wan, Hong Kong
$150 HKD advance, $200 HKD at the door, or $100 HKD for XXX members
