Concert review: Mandopop band Accusefive are a well-oiled hit machine

Accusefive First Live Tour: Around The New World Amusement Of The Universe In Singapore

Singapore Indoor Stadium

June 22

In recent years, no other Taiwanese band has stormed the Mandopop scene as much as Accusefive. Once labelled as indie, they have since found mainstream success.

At the Golden Melody Awards happening on June 29, they are up for four awards, including Best Band. Their third album In The Clouds (2023) is in the running for Album of the Year and Best Mandarin Album, and one of its tracks, We Will Be Fine, could be crowned Song of the Year.

Indeed, the stars are shining bright for Accusefive, who debuted in 2017 in Yilan county.

The trio charmed an 8,000-strong sold-out crowd over 170 minutes at the Singapore Indoor Stadium on June 22, with their mix of passionate, feel-good rock tunes and endearing personalities. It was their second concert here, after selling out Esplanade Concert Hall in 2023.

The Straits Times breaks down how each of the group’s three members contributes to them being such a well-oiled machine.

1. Chuan Ching, 27

Female vocalist Chuan Ching’s soprano carried many of the emotional numbers, such as Can’t Live Without You and Guarding You. Her lower register could be soft and husky, or warm and sonorous. When delivering high notes, it had a bell-like quality. Her vocals shone particularly during the intoxicating number Love – from its quiet, pensive start to the explosive chorus. And rock songs, such as Mischief, gave her a chance to show off a darker, edgier side.

Chuan Ching also showcased memorable outfits. She opened the show in a stylish white suit, which she later removed to reveal a lavender dress with a flowing train. For On In The Clouds, she donned a long strip of cloth that doubled as a skirt, creating a striking image when she was raised a few metres above the stage.

2. Edward Pan, 30

Considered the group’s creative mastermind, vocalist and guitarist Edward Pan wrote practically all of the group’s hits. He composed the soothing melody and penned the thoughtful lyrics of We Will Be Fine. The track, which pays homage to the music of English rock band The Beatles, poetically expresses the hope for a better tomorrow.

Pan, who is in a relationship with Chuan Ching, also took on lead vocals on some numbers, such as Miss You Day And Night, and played a white grand piano on Where I Lost Us.

The most eloquent member during audience banter segments, his utterances were often moving and rousing. For example, he said: “A concert is a special memory shared only between you and us. It cannot be repeated. So, when you walk through the story of these songs, we are there with you. We are enjoying the music together.”

3. Richard Lin, 33

Although Richard Lin seldom spoke during Accusefive’s gig, the drummer proved he was an expert at non-verbal communication.

The most animated member, his facial expressions often conveyed the songs’ emotions. During the foreboding number Mischief, he put on a stern demeanour throughout, which was often splashed on the Jumbotron screens. On the heartfelt We Will Be Fine, he mouthed the lyrics to the chorus while holding his hands to his chest.

At times the most energetic, he pounded on his tom-tom drum while standing during the celebratory Night Life. Take Us To The Light, dancing along to the beat, with one arm in the air.