Frontman of indie band Fool and Idiot, Eric Tsai, shot to fame after winning season 2 of the prestigious singing competition, The Coming One. The band’s debut album put them on the map when it was released in 2019 with its unique blend of cool indie beats, dreamy synths and poetic imagery. This holiday season, Eric shares his fond memories and music of choice for the New Year. “What Chinese New Year means to me can be encapsulated in one word—‘reunion’. The season is when you see your old friends and family again, but the true meaning behind the festival lies in how you get so much more joy out of doing the activities you love, simply because you’re doing them together with your loved ones.” “Our family’s special tradition is going outside to engage in outdoor activities,” says Eric. “Since our hometown is in southern Taiwan, the temperature is still rather nice during the New Year. Relatives around my age go on walks with my grandparents to parks or the pier. We also pray at a nearby temple for peace and health.” The playlist title “Bright Future” comes from “Waiting on The Day”, a song from Fool and Idiot’s debut album, where a certain future is envisioned through poetic lines and chill vibes. “There isn’t a better song to listen to in the New Year. I wish everyone a bright future!” Eric says. “The theme of my playlist is renewal. The songs I’ve chosen are very diverse, symbolising evolution and excitement in musical development.” The playlist offers a diverse mix ready to be explored—from Mandopop classics to rock tunes and dreamy electro-pop. “‘Haruwomatte’ from never young beach is my special tune of the year. The reason being that it gives a spring-like and easy feeling, and I really like that relaxing feeling. For my most representative song for 2020, I choose ‘Wanderer Guide in Taipei’ by Wayne’s So Sad. I don’t see it as just for Taipei, I hope everyone can find their own survival and wanderer guide in whatever city they live in.” “My favourite New Year blessing is ‘May all your wishes come true’. I hope to fulfil all the dreams in my heart. For the New Year, I hope everyone can reach their goals, and have a bright future. Ha!”