What's good, what's better and what's best after dark

In the past year we've seen Shanghai's music and nightlife scene struggle to mature and become more dynamic. While it's still far from stable, and far from what we'd consider "world-class," at least now we're finally feeling spoiled for choice every week.

Last summer everyone was talking about the plight of live music—pioneering venues like Tanghui and Yuyintang opened with fanfare but then were shut by the authorities. Live music then moved into established clubs like Bonbon, 4 Live, and Absolute House, who had their papers straight with the cops and big budgets to take a risk with local young bands. Independent promoters like Spli-t Works and China West brought in established foreign talents like The Roots and Sonic Youth, while local bands like Banana Monkey and The Honeys broke bigger with gigs abroad and lots of international media attention.

The over-heated "inter-national top DJ" gimmick has finally gotten old with the masses, and we're seeing more and more concept parties–high and low brow–catch on. More creative theme parties like "Taboo" at Attica appear to be an institution now, and veterans of the scene like Gary Wang (DJ Vnutz) continue to succeed by sticking to solid basics. Following is a list of what we feel are some of the best Shanghai has to offer.

For live music, check in with 4 Live and Yuyintang (who appear of have just secured a new home at the New Factories)—despite their struggles, these are the two teams in town that always place a passion for good live music above profits.

For DJ and electronic music events, follow Phreaktion for all things drum and bass–from local-based-talent-only one-offs to hosting big names like Goldie. Fans of minimal and micro electronics should look for the names "micro" and "freaklub," led by Tootekool, who blesses various venues with well-crafted environments for all-night ragers. There's only one team who delivers quality hip-hop, funk and soul, and that clearly goes to Vnutz's Lab crew and their series of Back To Roots parties—ignore the other circus shows. For the downright best mash-up mixed genre party, you go Bananas with Mr. Stokes, Kamikaze and friends. If you're looking for a floor-stomping night of techno madness, check what's coming up from Ben Huang and Shanghai_Ultra, hosting parties under different names, and at different places.