Beijing’s Pet Conspiracy aren’t so much a band as they are a troupe of performance artists who happen to play live music. The band combines electronic music, disco, cabaret and tons of John Carpenter-esque samples to produce a sound unlike any other group in China. Fronted by Helen Feng , PC is led by the unassuming Huzi (pictured right), who handles guitar duties and is the band’s principle songwriter.

In anticipation of Pet Conspiracy’s Antidote-endorsed show on Friday night, November 6th, at Mao Livehouse, City Weekend chatted Huzi up for 8 questions about all things pet.

City Weekend: Can you give a quick introduction to The Pet Conspiracy?

Huzi: Pet Conspiracy is composed of five individuals, two Chinese, two Italians and one American. We started this band two years ago, and our music is electronic music and rock and roll mixed.

CW: The Pet Conspiracy is unlike any other band in China. In addition to your music, you’re known for your stage antics. What influences your performance? Why did you decide to start a band so far removed from anything else in China?

H: I like this question . . . In addition to music, the five of us like to act during the performance. We are not a traditional band, the way we communicate is not merely music, but also drama, film, trendy vulgarity . . . everything is possible, music is really for us is a carrier. The reason for doing this is because the band did not want to be too realistic live.

CW: In China, electronic music and disco / club music, a short history. Where do you see electronic and disco / club music headed in China in the future?

H: The history is not very long, but I can not say I’m concerned with the direction [disco is headed] . . . we are not critics.

CW: You just returned from a European tour. How was the tour? How are shows in Europe and China alike and different?

H: Tour is definitely hard, physical labor. I’ve been playing music for 17 years, and this was the first time doing such a large-scale tour. Europe was great . . . particularly Germany; I have deep feelings for this country.

CW: I know this is not your first visit to Shanghai, but why have you waited so long to come back and play a proper club show?

H: Very simple, because no one asked us.

CW: What can your Shanghai fans expect from the show?

H: Douban fans, in the forum, have [requested] streaking, but I think not . . . What do you expect?

CW: You still haven't recorded an album or signed with a label. Do you have any intentions to do so? Why or why not?

H: We have been reluctant to sign. Too many record companies are trying to sign us, but I also do not think there is a Chinese label that can do what we want. A CD has been in the planning, but we have to find a different way to record this music.

CW: Is there anything else you'd like to say to your Shanghai fans? Why would you recommend people come to the show?

H: I never thought that Shanghai's audience would be open to our show . . . liberation is most important. Be ready to comply with the good and bad pets! ! !