Music To Our Ears: Straits Records Brings Local Music to the Community

Look beyond the Kebab-serving and Shisha-smoking restaurants that crowd Bali Lane and you will find a slice of Singaporean identity that’s been misplaced for the longest time – local music.

Located at 24 Bali Lane, Straits Records is both a record label and retail space that prides itself on promoting the underground music scene in Singapore. The place reveals a different side of our sunny island, where music lovers can escape from the monotony of their daily lives, to share ideas about their passion for music and immerse themselves in an alternative lifestyle.

Promoting local music to audiences

Wan, the down-to-earth and wise soul running Straits Records, works together with a collective of music lovers to provide a platform for local bands to showcase their music and performances. On their CD racks you will find all genres of music, but Straits champions local and regional music and carries more than 60% of it in their inventory. This is a clear departure from other music stores in Singapore, which typically carry 90% of international music with bits and pieces of local artistes.

The label first started in 1997, when Wan and his partners decided that the standards of local DIY music should be on par with mainstream releases. They provided their skills and expertise for marketing and distributing local releases in a presentable manner. Ever since, they have been a key driving force for the local music scene, expanding from hardcore punk music to bring different genres of international and local English music to Singapore.

A space for all kinds of music

Straits Records’ first release entitled The Jabs

In 2004, Wan and his friends decided to set up a proper workspace to execute their plans more effectively. In order to ensure progress and sustainability for the local music scene, the team continuously encouraged local musicians to embrace their work and be proud of what they have accomplished. With the aim of providing local bands a place where they can sell their music, a strong network of support and the relevant advice and expertise, Straits Records was born.

Straits Records’ collection of music from Singapore

The space takes a refreshing approach as compared to other music stores and is made up of two stories. In its retail section on the first floor, you will find possibly the only place left in Singapore that sells vinyl LPs. Alongside are CDs, books, clothes, ornaments and T-shirts ranging from various genres, titles and relevance to music. The store sends off an interesting vibe and remains unintimidating for those who want to drop by and find out more about alternative music. It is also here where you can seek out the latest happenings in the music scene and get involved in the many events that Straits Records organize (some of which are held on the upper storey).

Locals might find the music here different from what Singaporeans are used to. Wan quips that, “a lot of tourists are honestly shocked that Singapore has these kinds of bands cause it seems like such an uptight country.”

Lack of awareness for local music and talent