Chinese Football

Live on KEXP

On the show this time, it’s the emo-math, jangle-pop of Wuhan band Chinese Football. Chinese Football is a 4 piece indie-rock band formed in 2011. The name was indeed inspired by Midwest legends American Football, and the 2 bands have even played together. Their music has elements of emo, math-rock, indie-rock and punk. Their latest release is “Win or Lose”, the 3rd in a trilogy of albums based on a fictitious video game. The first was “Here Comes a New Challenger?” followed by “Continue?”. The albums all have killer anime style covers, by the illustrator Space Layout, inspired by Streetfighter 2. The lyrics sort of follow the trials and tribulations of singer Xu Bo’s dream of becoming a rock star, and the band touring the world. There’s a humility to the lyrics that borders on self deprecation, what they call “the hesitation which follows failure.” Once the band fires up though, there is no hesitation, they deliver tight jangly, intricate riffs, poppy harmony, and a danceable groove.

Recorded October 24, 2024

1. Rafting in the world
2. Awaking Daydream
3. The Last Emo Boy on Earth
4. Blind Men and an Elephant

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