That musical ring

Monk, "The Beijing music scene is in the early stages of its development. Those Chinese musicians that have a dream to make it in the industry, they come here. And that's what makes the city appealing. It's like the punk movement: rebellion following economic, social and cultural growth."

Not everything in this city comes in a musical major, as of course can never be the case, no matter whether you live in buzzing Beijing or shivering Antarctica. The minor tone makes an occasional appearance too. Everybody has their own particular pet peeves, but generally speaking food safety and pollution are the two most worried-about items on the "negative" checklist, Monk says; his band mates concur. Also the city's constant humming has two sides to it: on the one hand, nothing ever closes, there's always something to do; yet on the other hand, there is no place to escape from it all. Nonetheless, music and performing always do provide a good break from reality or the daily pursuits and worries. And as Liu puts it, "Chinese music is evolving; it's a way for our Chinese peers, our generation here, to express themselves." Precisely the reason Monk picked up his guitar again earlier this year and started looking for a singer to accompany him on stage. Have fun, develop yourself and push your limits. Express – please do not sue, Madonna -- yourself.

After Patterson became Monk's sidekick on the microphone, Liu joined the band two months ago and the three Country Gentlemen have been picking up gig after gig across town ever since -- especially around Line 2, Beijing's utmost artsy musical area. Their bluesy folk performances have proven popular with growing mixed audiences, attracting locals as well as people from across the planet residing in this metropolis. So then, what does the future hold? Though none of the guys, with perhaps the exception of China newbie Patterson, intend to spend another five years in the city, one thing echoes in perfect harmony, "China will always be part of our lives and our work and as far as the Beijing sonata goes, well, you'll carry that with you for the rest of your life."

Of course we end our little not so "sex, drugs and rock ‘n roll" session on a major scale, as all three members concluded on the same note, "We embrace Beijing with all that it entails; the good and the bad, the ups and the downs! Enjoy its bumpy ride!"

That's all folks!