Sanxian supported by jazzy bass; zheng plucked over a drum kit, the sheng humming over electronic noise: few Hong Kong bands are as intriguing as SIU2. Even fewer provide such a sonically literal experience of our city.

In their critically acclaimed debut, 2008’s Open Door, SIU2 pitted traditional Chinese elements face-to-face with cut up samples, stripped back drums, as well other elements of avant garde experimentalism – a fusion of disparate musical and cultural elements. Now, in their just-released follow up EP, Konfusion (西樂), SIU2 take their exploration of merging cultures to a new level.

“Our music is re-emphasising the fusion of Hong Kong,” says Ng Cheuk-yin, composer, keyboardist and sheng player for the six-piece band. “[It’s] old, new, western, Chinese put together in great disorder.” Over the EP’s five tracks, Ng’s songs delve into this concept, touching on the western musical form – from preludes to ballet to waltzes – as well as Chinese nursery songs, like <<月光光>>, with SIU2’s worldly mesh of instrumentation.

This fortnight, the pop, jazz, classical and traditional Chinese musicians of SIU2 are bringing their new EP to City Hall, and will be joined by a string quartet and renowned suona player Guo Ya Zhi. It’s a diverse ensemble that can’t be ignored. “It’s not just a fusion of music, but also a fusion of musicians,” says Ng. Not only that, how can you ignore someone rocking out on a zheng?

Mark Tjhung

SIU2 plays City Hall on April 16 & 17. Tickets: www.urbtix.hk; 2734 9009. Konfusion is out now. 

Hear their track Konfusion on the latest episode of the Time Out Podcast.