Chiching x UNIF : Taiwan Tapes

Text by Angie.L

Within the first few notes of “Taiwan Tapes” you are dropped into 1980s Taipei: Hou Hsiao Hsien has just released his first full-length film, “Cute Girl.” On Minsheng E Rd. near Dunhua N. Rd, McDonald's has opened its first store. Teens, relaxing on their scooters, flirt and smoke while synths pulse through speakers at the Night Market nearby. 

This is a mix where old tunes are re-imagined with new tools. Another way to put it: This is your Po Po’s fruit stand music if you gave it a drum machine. Many tracks from “Taiwan Tapes” are taken from 樂風唱片’s compilation series “Computer Drums 曙光電腦鼓.” These albums are a collection of some of the first uses of Grooveboxes and Drum Machines, like the ROLAND TR606, in Taiwan. There’s a glee in which these new instruments are used, which show a fascination for the future even while clinging to melodies of the past. 

The songs in this mix are all “Unknown Name” and “Unknown Artist.” The fact these songs are faceless to add to its ephemeral feel. Lovingly stitched together by Christine from UNIF and tastefully released on tape by Chiching Records, “Taiwan Tapes” is a scooter ride through one of the most vibrant and creative times of Taiwan’s history: please enjoy. 

UNIF https://www.unifclothing.com/

• Pro HighSpeed duplication cassette
• 20 minutes per side at 2 side copy. Transparent orange glitter shell tapes with white liner and screws black hubs white leader in Super Ferro Normal bias
• 2 sides full color direct shell print label
• 2 panel J-Card printed on both sides
• Made in Taiwan
• Comes with download code on CC Bandcamp