The Slants Release Music Video for “Just Say Goodbye” – China Underground

The Band Plays On by The Slants features guest artists from Asian American community

Portland dance-rock group The Slants released their final full-length album, The Band Plays On, through their independent label. The album was made available in digital format and on vinyl and features collaborations with guest artists, primarily from the Asian American community. Each track includes a guest performer, highlighting a variety of voices and talents.

The Slants retired from touring in 2019 and shifted focus to supporting marginalized artists through The Slants Foundation. This initiative became central to the development of their final album, which was created during the pandemic through remote collaborations. Simon Tam explained that the album represents a reimagining of what a band can be, prioritizing community and creativity over traditional structures. The project allowed them to work with a diverse array of contributors without forming a new lineup.

In addition to releasing the album, The Slants premiered a rock opera titled Slanted: An American Rock Opera in March 2023. The production, part of the New Works Collective program at the Opera Theatre of Saint Louis, dramatized the band’s legal battle over the trademarking of their name. Directed by Rajendra Moharaj, the opera incorporated actual statements from Ruth Bader Ginsburg and other key figures involved in the case. The production combined elements of synth-pop and rock music with opera, showcasing the band’s versatility.

The Band Plays On was co-produced by Bao Vo, who helped refine its sound. The album emphasizes collaboration, featuring contributions from established and emerging Asian American artists. According to Tam, the project underscores the value of collective artistry in fostering expression.

The tracklist for The Band Plays On is as follows:

• “Credits Roll” – Featuring Joe Kye
• “The Band Plays On” – Featuring BAO and several former members of The Slants
• “What Will People Say” – Featuring Mikara
• “Advocate” – Featuring Edson Choi from Talk Time
• “Drifting Pages” – Featuring Lola Menthol
• “This Is Who We Are” – Featuring Joe Kye
• “Will You Let Me Know” – Featuring Surrija
• “Family” – Featuring Aron Moxley and nearly all former members of The Slants
• “Ideas of You” – Featuring Darro
• “One Last Summer” – Featuring Katherine Ho
• “Crystal Lake” – Featuring Othertones/Iman Nadeem
• “Strangest Sound” – Featuring Alex Kade
• “Life Goes On” – Featuring Johnny Hi-Fi
• “Just Say Goodbye” – Featuring The Complements

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