Culture
Sónar so good
Barcelona’s pioneering electronic music export Sónar makes its debut in Hong Kong today as the festival kicks off with a headlining performance by DJ Shadow, along with sets by local electronic acts Ocean Lam and Choi Sai Ho. This is not Sónar’s first foray into Asia – it’s previously pitched up in Tokyo and Seoul. Both Barcelona and Hong Kong move to a similar beat, according to Barcelona’s deputy mayor for culture Jaume Collboni: “Barcelona is a gateway city as is Hong Kong,” he said, touting a shared spirit of innovation, technology and creativity. Curiously, the event is happening in the Hong Kong Science Park, a buttoned-down campus for business and innovation that’s a far cry from the more obvious harbour-front location in the centre of town. But, hey, this is a festival that prides itself on experimentation.