Elephant Gym (Taiwan) for Math Rock

On chart

Kaohsiung, a Taiwan-based math rock group, Elephant Gym, was established in February 2012. Chia-Chin Tu, the drummer, and siblings KT Chang (bass) and Tell Chang (guitar) make up the ensemble. The band's name symbolises their bass-driven melodies and agile, irregular rhythms. Elephant Gym was formed in February 2012 after the siblings met Tu at a music club in high school. They released their first EP, "Balance," on May 8, 2013. Their first full-length album, "Angle," released in 2014, showcased their technical musicianship with complex time signatures and instrumental dexterity. However, they have since evolved beyond the confines of math rock by embracing various genres to express different emotions.

Their third album, "Dreams," released in 2023, demonstrates their emotive approach to music that sets them apart from common criticisms of math rock being cold or clinical. A joyful and expressive artistic voice has emerged thanks to Chia-chin's unostentatious precision, Tell's captivating guitar riffs, and KT's flowing basslines.

Throughout their career, Elephant Gym has sought to challenge themselves through collaboration. They have worked with artists like Panai Kusui and Sowut to break down their musical world and explore new territories in sound. These experiences have taught them the importance of understanding other cultures before collaborating effectively.

"World" features four collaborations with artists such as breakout neo-soul artist 9m88 ("Shadow") and folk singer Lin Sheng Xiang ("Dream of You"). The album showcases a collection of languages spoken by the people of Taiwan. Additionally, Elephant Gym paid homage to Japanese post-rock band Toe by sampling their song "Two Moons" on the track "Go Through the Night."

Elephant Gym’s music serves not only as a vehicle for their own imaginations but also for new songwriting ideas and styles inherited from collaborators. These partnerships have reciprocated energy in new ways for the band members. For instance, 9m88 was eager to experiment with unusual time signatures for "Shadow," while Lin Sheng Xiang adapted his performance style for “Dream of You” to play live with the band. These collaborations have been gratifying experiences for Elephant Gym.

In addition to their technical skill and innovative approach to rhythm and instrumentation, Elephant Gym's music also possesses emotional depth. While instrumental, their compositions convey a wide range of emotions, from introspective melancholy to exuberant joy. The band has a knack for creating evocative musical landscapes that resonate with listeners on an emotional level, transcending language barriers and cultural differences.