Presented by Asian Arts Initiative (AAI), SOUND TYPE 2025, a one of a kind music festival and writers residency, returns for its second year, bringing together musicians and writers in a groundbreaking partnership that challenges musical genres, forms, and stereotypes. With an emphasis on experimentation and critical feedback, SOUND TYPE showcases the work of Asian and BIPOC musicians and critics, creating authentic creative platforms that celebrate and elevate diverse voices. The Music Writers Residency envisions an equitable space for both performers and audiences to engage with music and writing that pushes boundaries and fosters artistic bravery. This year’s festival seeks to build community and power for the Asian and BIPOC music and music writing community in Philadelphia, one of the nation’s most vibrant music hubs.
| Time | Venue | Age | |
|---|---|---|---|
| F.U.'s / The Uprise / The Brood / Vile Enemy / The Brolic | 7:00pm | Nikki Lopez | 21+ |
| The Band Solstice | 7:30pm | Silk City | 21+ |
| The Dream Syndicate | 8:00pm | Johnny Brenda's | 21+ |
| Bitchin Bajas | 8:00pm | Solar Myth | 21+ |
| They Are Gutting a Body of Water / Hooky / ZekeUltra / Fib (1st show) | 8:00pm | First Unitarian Church: Basement | All Ages |
| Joe Farnsworth Trio (with Emmet Cohen) Night #1 | 8:00pm | Chris' Jazz Café | All Ages |
| FÖR / Church Car | 8:00pm | The Perch | All Ages |
| Shai Halud | 8:30pm | Underground Arts | 21+ |
| Time | Venue | Age | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Haunted Christmas | 12:00pm - 7:00pm | Philadelphia Brewing Company | 21+ |
| Whitehall (matinee show) | 1:00pm | Nikki Lopez | 21+ |
| Mr Unloved | 4:30pm | McDuff's Tavern | 21+ |
| Slay Ride - A 2025 HoliGay Spectacular (Alyssa Edwards / Kori King / Frankie Grande) | 6:30pm | Underground Arts | 21+ |
| Highfield / The James Rocket / Flock of Difference | 8:00pm | Century | 21+ |
| Juggaknots | 8:00pm | Nikki Lopez | 21+ |
| They Are Gutting a Body of Water / Boo Boo / Spoiler / Big Nick (2nd show) | 8:00pm | First Unitarian Church: Basement | All Ages |