Tizzy Bac

Tizzy Bac is an indie rock band from Taipei, Taiwan, active since 1999. The group forms around vocalist and keyboard player 陈惠婷 (Hui-Ting Chen), drummer 郑凯同 (Kai-Tong Zheng), bassist 许哲毓 (Zhe-Yu Xu), later member 林前源, and 李杰, and its line-up and history place it within Taiwanese rock and indie music.

Style and sound

The band combines indie rock and rock with jazz, alternative rock and electronic elements. Its music is described as varied rather than fixed to one formula, with each song treated as having its own character. The resulting sound is associated with a broad, layered atmosphere and has drawn comparisons to Ben Folds Five, New Order and Loop.

Early years and live reputation

Formed in 1999 in Taipei, Tizzy Bac gains attention through live appearances at Formoz Festival in 2001 and Hohaiyan Rock Festival in 2002. Their performances receive praise from audiences, other artists and critics, and Cat Power is among those impressed by 陈惠婷's voice.

Albums, EPs and career development

The band releases its first album, 什麼事都叫我分心 (Anything Can Tempt Me), in 2003, with ten tracks that continue its colourful and expansive style. In the same year, drummer 郑凯同 leaves the group and 林前源 joins as a replacement.

In 2005, Tizzy Bac issues the EP 夏季熱 (Sunstroke), which presents a refreshed image while keeping the band’s rock foundation. The second studio album, 我想你會變成這樣都是我害的 (I Think It's All My Fault That You Turned Out Like That), follows in 2006 and establishes the group as one of Taiwan’s major indie rock bands.

In 2007, the band releases the EP 維克多的玫瑰 (La Rose de Victor) and the live album 聊聊吧 (Tizzy Bac Unplugged Concert). Its third full-length album, 如果看見地獄，我就不怕魔鬼 (If I See Hell, I Won't Be Afraid of Demons), appears in 2009, followed later that year by the EP 你們都不要變 (Don't Change) for the band’s 10th anniversary.

After two years of touring, Tizzy Bac releases its fourth album, 告密的心, in 2011. On this record the band’s sound shifts towards synth-rock and receives strong praise from listeners and critics.

Later years and recognition

In 2018, bassist 许哲毓 dies from cancer. Tizzy Bac continues to perform after his death and wins awards at the 2019 Freshmusic Awards and the 2021 PlayMusic Awards.