Chinese American Bear

Chinese American Bear, the experimental mando-pop duo consisting of Anne Tong and Bryce Barsten, will perform live at The Hope & Ruin in Brighton on Wednesday, 23 September 2026. The duo, originally from Seattle, Washington, creates music that blends English and Chinese, drawing on retro sonic textures from the 1960s and 1970s. Their songwriting often centres on lighthearted topics, ranging from culinary interests to space-themed narratives. Those attending can expect an interactive live show, as the duo incorporates background dancers and has been known to distribute plush dumplings or bears to the crowd during their sets.

The venue for this performance is The Hope & Ruin, situated at 10-12 Queens Road, Brighton, BN1 3WA. Doors are scheduled to open at 20:00, with the music starting at 20:00 and the event expected to conclude around 23:00. This is a 16+ event, and tickets are currently available at a price of £14.10. As with any local show, it is recommended to verify ticket availability through the official event platforms before planning your evening. The concert is presented by FORM and Psychedelia.

Musically, the duo’s output has been described as a combination of influences from artists such as Melody's Echo Chamber, The Flaming Lips, Dusty Springfield, and The B-52's. Since the release of their second album, Wah!!!, in October 2024, the pair has been active with touring commitments across the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, and China. Their Brighton date is part of a broader tour schedule for September 2026, which also includes performances in cities such as Paris and London. This tour follows a period of consistent live activity throughout 2025, providing a look at their current stage presence and musical direction. The Hope & Ruin, being a central venue in Brighton, provides a setting that aligns with the intimate and quirky nature of their performance style, allowing for the specific audience interaction they are known for.