A cloud of incense wafts through the air conditioning system and into the lobby of Legacy Max, a 2,000-capacity venue in downtown Taipei, Taiwan. After a few remaining ticketholders are ushered inside, the heavy doors swing shut and attention turns to the person responsible for all this smoke: a diminutive Buddhist nun, Master Miao-ben. She’s a member of death metal band Dharma, and is onstage swinging a censer as part of their signature ‘purifying act’ that takes place before every show.
We’re at Awaken, a Buddhist electronic music festival. Judging by the well-heeled audience, who are wearing designer labels like Balenciaga rather than metal t-shirts, many are waiting to see artists higher up the bill, such as EDM DJ Kenny Musik. No one knows how Dharma will go down as openers. As the incense wafts back to a terraced VIP area, complete with sofas and rosé champagne, there’s a palpable sense of anticipation and unease.
