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Gabriel Joseph and his partner Samuel Swanson made a calculated bet five years ago to open their very own club in Seoul's uniquely diverse area known as Itaewon. Not content with the work they were putting in for other promoters, they approached their original venture Cakeshop with a sense of direction and purpose that, to this day has proven to be unwavering. Between the two, Sam is at the musical helm, bringing international artists alongside hand-selecting local acts. Gabe serves as his foil, bringing together a cohesive brand identity and helping shape the venues into international music destinations. An opening in the building of Cakeshop allowed them to explore a second space, known as Contra. A decidedly more upscale approach to music and nightlife, if Cakeshop is the turnt-up little brother, Contra is the more mature, chill spot many typically graduate into. The different spaces, represent different functions. But to get to this place hasn't been without its challenges. Regardless of the bumps along the way, it's been this indie approach to doing things that have diverted from cultural norms that are applied in plain sight in Korea. Five years is an impressive feat in the world of nightlife anywhere in the world. But for the Cakeshop and Contra crew, what got them here in the first place won't change. Innovative and interesting global music with a stern perspective is timeless. Narration by Eugene Kan & Alex Maeland Beats by Ta-ku Audio by Elphick Wo Photos by Alex Maeland See the whole story here. What is MAEKAN? MAEKAN is a membership-based publication and community focused on the sights and sounds of creative culture. We're about learning, participating, and connecting with a global community on a deeper level that social media just doesn't provide. We’re defining the future of creative culture. We don't have all the answers, but our curiosity ensures we never stop looking. Sign-Up Today If you've enjoyed this story from the archives and want to see what else MAEKAN has to offer, sign-up for your membership at MAEKAN.com. You'll unlock exclusive stories, be given exclusive member-only-access to our Slack community, and have the opportunity to participate in our monthly digital panel discussions. maekan.com Follow Us |
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