The return of live music under the pandemic has been a rocky one. With restrictions changing all the time, it's hard to know when we can see our favourite acts perform onstage once again. 

However, right before the dreaded Phase 2 (Heightened Alert) kicked in again, some of us were fortunate enough to have a taste of a physical show. Organised by Bandwagon and presented by Vans Singapore, the House of Vans Pop-up 2021 took place at legendary venue The Substation on 17 July.

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Shirly Temple (@shirlytemple.sg)

With free gigs and exhibitions from KL-based photographer Ajiem Serr and Singaporean skater-illustrator Mister Tucks, as well as multimedia works from JPEGMAFIA and Denzel Curry, the pop-up was among the final events held at the local cultural institution's premises on 45 Armenian Street. (But fret not, The Substation has just announced that they will be back!)

Featuring sold-out performances from local indie mainstays and Vans Musicians Wanted alumni, the House of Vans Pop-up was a bona fide celebration of homegrown talent, and a much-needed affirmation of local music in a time where arts industries continue to suffer under the pandemic.

For an entire day, we were treated to sets from Kitty Purrnaz, Opus Renegade, Louie Indigo, Woes, weish, Shirly Temple, Ultra Mega Cat Attack, and Quite Quiet. As someone who managed to snag a seat for Kitty Purrnaz and watch her perform for the first time, I quote a friend: "I never knew pop music could sound so good live." 

Vans Musicians Wanted 2021 announces Singapore judges: THELIONCITYBOY, Tabitha Nauser, and Caracal's Martin James Kong

Relive last Saturday's House of Vans Pop-up with our photo gallery below.

For more photos, check out Bandwagon's Facebook page here.