Cameron Highlands native Cole Yew has kept George Town’s Soundmaker Studio alive and thrashing in Penang, Malaysia for more than a decade, booking punk, metal, and post-rock bands that wouldn’t otherwise have anywhere to play. (Malaysian authorities have a history of cracking down on underground music, which is viewed by some locals as a menace to moral society.) The crusty racket of Kakiseribu, whose drummer Nicky is seen here, would certainly raise the blood pressure of a few politicians. Lucky for them, they got to rile up a room of hardcore kids instead. Soundmaker’s main gig hall fits up to 200 people, and there are separate studios for jam sessions and music lessons. Follow the venue’s Facebook page to find out about future shows or inquire about a bed at the on-site hostel, bookable via Airbnb.
No. 62 Weld Quay, 2nd Fl., George Town, Penang, Malaysia; +60-17-428-7327.
Additional photos courtesy of Soundmaker Studio
