Re-TROS

Re-TROS

Re-TROS, also known as 重塑雕像的权利 and Rebuilding the Rights of Statues, is a Chinese gothic and post-punk group from Beijing. The band begins in the underground music scene in China in 2003 and remains active.

Formation and members

The group forms around Hua Dong, who handles lead vocals, guitar and keyboards, and Liu Min on bass. Hua Dong returns to China after studying in Germany and has been drumming for the post-punk band P.K.14 when he forms Re-TROS with Liu Min, who later becomes his wife. The line-up also includes drummer Ma Hui, and the band is listed as comprising Hua Dong, Huang Jin and Liu Min.

Style and early activity

Re-TROS develop in Nanjing before moving to Beijing, where they play clubs and become part of the city’s post-punk and gothic scene. Their music is described as tense, danceable and brooding, with Hua Dong’s vocals and guitar, Liu Min’s bass playing and vocal style, and Ma Hui’s drumming central to the band’s sound.

Recordings and collaborators

The band’s first EP is Cut Off!, issued by the Beijing-based outfit Rebuilding the Rights of Statues. Brian Eno contributes guest keyboards on the recording, making him one of the group’s notable collaborators.

Names and identity

Re-TROS is the shortened name for Rebuilding the Rights of Statues, and the Chinese name used for the group is 重塑雕像的权利. The band is identified as a Chinese group within the post-punk and gothic genres.