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The Paradise Bangkok Molam International Band (PBMIB) combines traditional Thai music with modern influences. With a diverse group of musicians, they have gained international acclaim for their captivating performances that transport audiences to Bangkok’s vibrant music scene. Inspired by late-night jam sessions and collaborations with local and international artists, their unique fusion of molam, funk, rock, electronic, and psychedelic music creates a refreshing and exciting musical landscape.
Molam is a traditional music style from Isan, the northeastern part of Thailand. Drawing inspiration from this rich heritage, PBMIB infuses their sound with contemporary elements of funk, rock, electronic and psychedelic music. The band creates an exciting musical mix that is both nostalgically familiar and incredibly contemporary.
Led by DJ Maft Sai and featuring skilled instrumentalists, the band takes listeners on a sonic journey filled with infectious rhythms, soulful melodies, and electrifying stage presence. Apart from artists on drums, percussion, electronics, guitar and bass, the band also contains two great virtuoso’s on phin (a kind of lute) and khaen (a mouth organ), giving the band its special flavour.
DJ Maft Sai, together with Chris Menist, were behind the extraordinary compilations Sound of Siam on Soundway Records, but also released stunning compilations and singles on Light In The Attic, Finders Keepers, and on their own label Paradise Bangkok. From 2008 on the records were released on Maft Sai’s label, Zudrangma Records.
Before covid PBMIB toured extensively and enchanted audiences across Europe and Asia, from Glastonbury, Offest and Fusion festival to Fuji Rock, opening for prestigious festivals and earning critical acclaim. The band even played support to Damon Albarn (Blur, Gorillaz).
With their ability to blend traditional Thai music with modern interpretations, the band’s music transcends language and cultural barriers, creating a universal connection that brings people together through the power of music. Now their music is also featured in the third season of the American series The White Lotus, broadcasted on HBO.
Finally PBMIB is back again. The band released their 3rd album Arayalam last year, but only in Thailand. It will be released internationally in November 2025 on Rush Hour.
“How is it that my brain connects this house groove from a Chicagoan producer to a band based in Bangkok? How is it that the khaen’s drone-like role in parts of the album remind me of Celtic folk instruments, such as the hurdy-gurdy? Perhaps it is simply an untrained ear finding similarities where there are none, but I can’t help but be enraptured by the globality of music, bringing people from across the world together. “ – Flora Bigham, Cherwell
