TOUTED as Asia’s answer to The Black Eyed Peas, Taiwanese hip hop group Da Mouth prides itself on being different.

Comprising MC 40, male vocalist Harry Zhang, DJ Chung Hua and female vocalist Aisa, the group gained recognition in late 2007 with the release of its self-titled album, Da Mouth. This was followed by a second studio album, Wang Yuan Kou Li Kou, in 2008 and One Two Three in 2010. The single, La She (from One Two Three), secured the No. 42 spot on Taiwan’s annual Hit FM Top 100 Singles Chart.

Following the success of Wang Yuan Kou Li Kou, its fan base, which includes Singapore, Malaysia, Taiwan and China, grew. In April this year, the band released its third studio album, ‘Influens, an 11-track album which features different singing styles.

In a recent phone interview, group leader MC 40 (real name Xue Shi-ling) recommended Who Do You Fear as “the song one must begin with” when listening to the CD.

“It represents a different side of us in terms of style, lyrics, dance moves and even the way we dress. We wish to present the kind of effect, you know, where people are attracted to you at a party because of your exuberance and style,” he said.

“As a group, we want to express ourselves through songs and image. But we are still imparting positive messages to our fans. Our performance style may have changed but our essence — what the fans have known us for — is still there,” said Aisa.

One of the songs in the album, R U Kidding Me, is inspired by the short form of writing used by youth today, particularly when sending text messages.

While grammar police may cringe at the spelling of the album’s title, Da Mouth says it’s just a matter of playing with words.

“We wanted to spell out different types of words to mean the same thing. It was intended to mean popular and dynamic. But our company thought our music could have a pandemic effect, like the flu. We felt that this is a good idea because anyone who liked our style and songs could spread it to their friends and acquaintances,” said MC 40.

He added that his latest drama series, Ti Amo Chocolate, has just finished airing in Taiwan’s SET television network. Currently working on a short film project, he said the mini series will also be available on Tudou, one of China’s largest video sharing website.

The band will visit the country (including Sabah and Sarawak) between Sept 7 and 11 to promote  ‘Influens. Their last visit here was two years ago.

What do they expect from their upcoming visit? “Must eat, must play!” said the members in unison, adding that they are looking forward to visiting the beaches as well.