Temple Rat

Berlin-based Temple Rat fuses traditional Chinese instrumentation with electronic production. A classically trained multi-instrumentalist, she creates cinematic, cross-cultural experiences at iconic venues, bridging ancient heritage and future club sounds. Temple Rat’s music is more than just a sequence of rhythms; it is a meticulously crafted world defined by cinematic depth and organic, emotionally driven storytelling. Based in Berlin, the project is the alias of Yuxin Mei, a Chinese composer and multi-instrumentalist who has spent years honing a sound that bridges the gap between ancient Eastern textures and the raw intensity of contemporary electronic music. In her artistic practice, Mei explores the relationship between space, environment, and sound. While the Erhu remains a central pillar of her work, her productions weave a rich tapestry of Chinese woodwinds, percussion, and traditional flutes. By utilising self-built sound-design tools and intricate field recordings, she crafts a distinctive sonic identity that leans on deep listening and experimental spatial-audio techniques. This philosophy extends beyond the club into the world of interactive installations and cross-cultural curation, notably through her collectives “Er Ting Ba Fang” (耳聽八方) and “Jia La.” Since her acclaimed EP Composition of Air on Siamese Twins Records, Temple Rat’s evolution has been marked by a constant desire to push boundaries. Her work has received international praise for its ability to balance traditional delicacy with modern industrial grit, leading her to iconic clubs including Berghain, Macadam and RSO. Her recent discography expands with the 2026 release of Some Leaves Must Fall 聽其自然 on the label Buttheads, a project that further explores her signature blend of organic instrumentation and sophisticated electronic structures. On stage, Temple Rat is known for her atmospheric performances, whether in her machine-heavy live shows or her eclectic DJ sets. She remains dedicated to the transformative power of sound, ensuring that every performance acts as a bridge between the heritage of the past and the sonic possibilities of the future.