Local rock bands to warm up New Years eve

By Ines Min

If you’re in search of live Korean music shows to celebrate New Year’s eve and happen to love the forever-nostalgic cues of “Fantasia,” music agency Mint Paper is looking to satiate.

The first Countdown Fantasy 2010-2011 kicks off Dec. 30 for a two-day festival at AX-Korea, eastern Seoul, leading right up to and past the start of the new year. Local acts ranging from the well-known Jaurim to Guckkasten will play until dawn with a range of other talented bands.

With the help of such indie labels as MPMG, Rubysalon and Soundholic, the event closes the gap between major international rock festivals thriving in Korea and the smaller scene of all-Korean concerts. While Jisan Rock Valley Festival and Pentaport dominate during the sweltering summer months, Mint Paper’s biannual Grand Mint and Beautiful Mint festivals have already hammered their stakes in fall and spring.

An in-door and an out-door stage will host the majority of the acts, while a second floor “Ghost Dancing” arena will contribute to the festive ambiance. Day one features bands such as Peterpan Complex, Dear Cloud and MATE, while the second day will bring on big-hitters THE KOXX, Huckleberry Finn, The Moonshiners and Vodka Rain.

Each show will be accompanied by a screen depicting cosmic sights like the moon and stars, contributing that element of Disney’s “Fantasia.” The signature Mint Paper environmentalism will also play a part with a number of recycling bins dotting AX.

Interested musiclovers will have to act fast, as festival goers will be limited to 2,000. Single-day tickets start at 44,000 won, while two-day tickets are 88,000 won. For more information, email info_english@mpmg.co.kr, or book tickets online at www.ticket.interpark.com/Global. A full line-up can be found at www.mintpaper.com.