Our Kuala Lumpur Live Music & Comedy Guide is jam packed with Live sounds around the Klang Valley over the weekend. From live music to comedy, from jazz to classical, from indie pop to hard rock, here’s an extensive look at the week ahead.
JANUARY 19/20 : Duets with Rozz and Poova at No Black Tie
It has been 3 years since these two vocal powerhouses sang in a show together.
One of Malaysia’s select few international soul, rock and pop artistes, Poova’s slender frame hides pipes that could power a locomotive uphill in a tornado. This multitalented hydroelectric soul turbine ain’t just a pretty face. She writes, composes and produces her own music, plays the piano and is an AIM and four time VIMA award winning performer.
When it comes to describing ROZZ, words fail. Not because he is an otherworldly life form with the ability to silence anyone in his way (though he might well be), but because he is uncategorisable, for lack of a better word. Every time he struts on to a stage, donning a brand new, blazing outfit, one is transported to a time when large feathered headresses were all the rage and 10 inch heels that should by all gravitational and scientific standards, be unwalkable, are walkable. ROZZ’s luscious jazzy vocals and sharp wit make him a dream to watch.
Rozz and Poova will be backed by Zatanna. The newly formed outfit, which consists of musical phenoms Sharon Chong on keys, Melina William on bass, Adriane Palikat on drums and Anis Kalisa on guitar – one kick-ass all-woman band. And as the name (an homage to a DC Comic superhero) suggests, they too shall astound you and leave you marvelling for more. Individually, these ladies are all talented musicians to be reckoned with. But the synergy they create coming together as a unit is a remarkable display of beauty. A feast not just the ears, but the eyes too.
Fast gaining their fame in the entertainment scene, Zatanna was recently featured in the Anugerah Skrin 2017 telecast.
Rozz, Poova and Zatanna plan to perform all your favorite duets, and they have some other re-arranged tunes up their sleeve, to surprise you.
NO BLACK TIE : 17, Jalan Mesui, off Jalan Nagasari, Kuala Lumpur
Admission fee RM64. Call 03-2142 3737 after 5pm or visit www.noblacktie.com.my for bookings.
JANUARY 19 : Bobo KL presents On the Sofa with Ribena Berry & Curry Spice
It’s been two years since these colourful characters (courtesy of the indomitable Jo Kukathas) set foot on the Bobo stage. They think it’s high time, and due to high demand, it’s set for a re-staging of their first ever “talk show” in early 2016. Well, here you go, with a few more Berry-isms and an even more pedas Ms. Spice this time around.
BOBO KL : 65-1, Jalan Bangkung, Bangsar, KL
Show times at 9.30pm. Wine and dine with them before the show. Dinner prices RM50++ / RM35++ for Bobo Diners. For reservations call 03-2092 5002
JANUARY 19 : Double Bill featuring David Soh and Night Skies & Visions at The Bee
Like it wild or like it mellow, this edition of Double Bill has something for everyone. Featured performers are David Soh, a young musician with a love for the oldies, and pop punk live wires Night Skies & Visions, who will get you jumping on your feet!
THE BEE, PUBLIKA : 36, Block C, Level G2, Publika, Solaris Dutamas, Jalan Dutamas 1, KL
Free entry at 9.30pm. Call 03-7960 22160 or e-mail bees@thebee.com.my
JANUARY 19 : Le Noir KL presents RYÖT JONES live on stage
The KL-based eight piece funk/soul band classifies its sound as festival funk and aims to bring the most energetic stage performances to festivals, venues and events within Malaysia and South East Asia.
LE NOIR KL : Unit H-G-07, The Hive, TREC, Lot 435, Jalan Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur
Roof terrace opens at 5pm. Cover charge may apply after 11pm. To reserve your spot:
Book online: https://form.jotform.me/LeNoirKL/book-a-table
Email: HERE / Phone/WhatsApp: +60122245416
Valet parking available.
JANUARY 19 : Urban Lights by Gig Fairy
Featured bands performing urban classics every Thursday. As a place to unwind, the kaleidoscopic Ren shifts into a lounge experience on Thursdays with a jazzy performance from New Village Music Lab.
Kick back at Urban Lights by Gig Fairy with the indulgence of complimentary entry and a happy hour that lasts until midnight!
KYO KL : (Ren Room) Mandarin Oriental Kuala Lumpur, off Jalan Pinang, KLCC, Kuala Lumpur
Table reservations please contact reservations@clubkyokl.com or 012-921 1730.
JANUARY 19 : Sofa Sundays Live at Ril’s
They love to have fun, and by fun, they mean playing music and hanging with their friends. Funk, jazz, fusion, rock’n’roll, R&B in love.
RIL’S BANGSAR : 30, Jalan Telawi 5, Bangsar Baru, KL
Call 03-2201 3846 or e-mail reservations@rils.com.my
JANUARY 19 : Crackhouse Presents: Dwayne Perkins (USA) & Nik Coppin (UK)
Crackhouse has nabbed another Netflix star – Dwayne Perkins. His special, Dwayne Perkins: Take Note is some of the best on the streaming giant's array of comedy specials.
The Brooklyn native is a young vet in the comedy game. With appearances on Conan O’Brien, The Late Late Show, and Premium Blend, Dwayne has earned a spot in today’s class of elite Stand-up Comics. Dwayne is a regular crowd pleaser in New York, Boston and Los Angeles. The recent culmination of Dwayne’s talent and work has resulted in his very own Comedy Central Presents half hour special. The very well received special showcases Dwayne’s unique way of looking at life and unparalleled ability to convey it in a hilarious manner.
In 2012, he was selected by Rolling Stone magazine as one of their "Five Comics to Watch". In addition to performing all over North America, Dwayne has also performed in Europe, the United Kingdom, South Africa, India, the United Arab Emirates, Singapore, and China.
A stand-up comic for more than 10 years, Nik Coppin has performed all over the world. As well as being a regular on the UK comedy circuit and performing in many European countries such as France, Germany, Spain, Austria, Denmark and Hungary, he has also performed many solo shows at The Edinburgh and Adelaide Fringe Festivals, New Zealand and Melbourne International Comedy Festivals, all over Australia and the inaugural Hollywood Fringe Festival in Los Angeles.
His confident, affable and energetic style of comedy is quick to build audience rapport, as he talks about subjects as wide-ranging as observations on human nature, his experiences in The Antipodes, Europe and Asia, his extensive knowledge of wildlife, current affairs and his mixed race up bringing in London. His mother is English and his father is from Barbados.
As well as becoming one of the most professional acts on the comedy circuit, his versatility has also made him a much sought after compere. He has the ability to adapt to a multitude of audiences and is skilful, observant and affable enough put them immediately at ease.
Crackhouse Comedy Club KL : 1st Floor, 24A, Lorong Rahim Kajai 14 Taman Tun Dr Ismail, KL
Time : 9pm Showtime, Seating 8pm. Ticket : RM40 online / RM50 at the door.
https://crackhouseheadliners.peatix.com. Call +60172603654 or email laugh@crackhousecomedy.asia for more info.
JANUARY 19 : Public Voice at Café Society KL
Public Voice was established on May, 1994 by Reza Khalili who has education on lead guitar in private school in Iran. They started their work as serious in 1995. Public Voice found special status between its fans in the field of blues and rock.
This group also holds variety concerts, produced some albums and co-operate with other artists and singers in Iran. Since 2008, Public Voice have travelled (Turkey, Azerbaijan, Ukraine)to continue their music career and they play music in different and famous pubs since 2008.
Now the band line up is a three piece blues & rock band living in Kuala Lumpur, still working on music and performing around the pubs and clubs. With Reza Khalili (guitar/vocals), Bahman Khalili (drums), Sasan Asgari (bass guitar).
THE CAFÉ SOCIETY KL : H-G-04, The Hive, TREC, 434, Jalan Tun Razak, KL
Call 013-330 7770
JANUARY 19-21 : 5th Malaysian Jazz Piano Festival
The highly anticipated jazz piano festival in Malaysia is back once again from 19th – 21st January, 2018 at Pentas 2, KLPac.
The Malaysian Jazz Piano Festival is the brainchild of Michael Veerapen and together with 8 of Malaysia’s finest jazz pianists, they have brought to life a festival that is unique in that it places an emphasis on the role of the Piano in the jazz idiom. It is believed to be the only Jazz Piano Festival in the world to the best of their knowledge.
Since its inception in 2014, the Malaysian Jazz Piano Festival has grown to become one of the most important music festivals in Malaysia in terms of its impact on young musicians, primarily those who are still music students looking towards having a career in music. With a strong emphasis on imparting professional know-how to younger musicians, the clinics and performances have been inspirational not only to the younger set but also to the seasoned professionals themselves as they come together to learn from each other in what has become a strong and thriving sense community.
Among their objectives are to come together as jazz pianists and to share and to inspire each other; to share with jazz piano students in particular and to other students/musicians as well, knowledge based on real world experience; to attract the interest of classical piano students to also have jazz piano studies as a supplement to their classical studies; and to strengthen the Malaysian musician community and to encourage and support young musicians embarking on a career in music.
Visit www.malaysianjazzpianofestival.com for full extensive line up and concert details.
KLPAC : Sentul Park, Jalan Strachan, KL
Tickets from www.ticketpro.com..my / +603-7880 7999. Or call 03-4047 9000 or visit www.klpac.org.
JANUARY 20/21 : Duet Concertino at the Dewan Filharmonik Petronas
The Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra (MPO) sees Finnish guest conductor Okku Kamu conduct this weekend’s special duet concertino programme of works from Carln Nielsen (Helios Overture), Richard Strauss (Duet Concertino) and Piotr Ilych Tchaikovsky (Symphony No. 6). MPO principals Gonzalo Esteban on clarinet and Alexnader Lenov on bassoon will duet on “Duet Concertino”.
Okku Kamu enjoys a reputation for spontaneity tempered by sensitivity and disciplined feeling. He ended an incredibly successful period as chief conductor of the world famous Lahti Symphony Orchestra in his native Finland in June 2016 having finished recording a complete Sibelius cycle for BIS which followed an earlier one he shared with Herbert von Karajan and the Berlin Philharmoniker for Deutsche Grammophon.
He remains Principal Guest Conductor of the Singapore Symphony Orchestra with many previous titles which have included chief conductorships with the Finnish Radio Symphony Orchestra, the Oslo Philharmonic and Helsinki Philharmonic Orchestras as well as the Nederlands Radio Symphony Orchestra alongside positions with the Finnish National Opera, Swedish Royal Opera and as Principal Guest Conductor of the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra and the Lausanne Chamber Orchestra.
He came to prominence in 1969 by winning the first Karajan International Conducting Competition in Berlin, an achievement which led to engagements in Europe and the USA and the first recordings he made with the Berlin Philharmoniker.
DEWAN FILHARMONIK PETRONAS : Petronas Twin Towers, KLCC
Level 2, Tower 2, PETRONAS Twin Towers, KLCC, KL
Tickets: RM150 RM120 RM90 RM60. Become a subscriber when you buy a minimum of any 5 concerts across all series to enjoy 20% off and other special privileges. To purchase tickets, visit our Box Office at Ground Floor, Tower 2, PETRONAS Twin Towers, KLCC or call 603 2331 7007, you may also purchase online. Visit the MPO website for more details - http://www.mpo.com.my/
JANUARY 20 : Le Noir KL presents Gregory Ramanado and Syima live on stage
You’ve seen him on Michael Bolton’s reality TV show Bolt of Talent, Gregory Ramanado is a versatile Malaysian singer-songwriter known for his charismatic and high energy persona on stage, engaging his audiences with his funky flavour of musicality. Together with Syima o stage tonight.
LE NOIR KL : Unit H-G-07, The Hive, TREC, Lot 435, Jalan Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur
Roof terrace opens at 5pm. Cover charge may apply after 11pm. To reserve your spot:
Book online: https://form.jotform.me/LeNoirKL/book-a-table
Email: HERE / Phone/WhatsApp: +60122245416
Valet parking available.
JANUARY 20 : Aina Abdul at Shook! Saturday Night Vibes
Aina Abdul is no stranger to the Malaysian music scene. She is fondly known as Aina Mentor, a title derived from the national prime reality television singing competition Mentor Legend, which she auditioned to participate in 2014.
She came into the limelight after becoming the first runner-up on the show under the apprenticeship of Malaysia’s Queen of Rock; Ella. Later that year, she gained further international recognition as she rose to win the Senior Grand Vocalist Champion’s title at the World Championship of Performing Arts (WCOPA) held in Hollywood, Los Angeles.
In 2017, she was revealed as the performing artist behind the song “Ribut Hati”, the original soundtrack for the year’s local blockbuster movie “Tombiruo: Penunggu Rimba”. Following this, she released her much awaited debut English R&B and soul single, “Reminiscing”.
SHOOK KL : Feast Village, Starhill Gallery 181, Jalan Bukit Bintang, KL
Call 03-2782 3875
JANUARY 20 : Comedy After Dark at Publika
The First Ever Comedy Show dedicated to dark humour in Malaysia? So we hear this is how it’s being billed as. Bored with simple safe comedy routines and corny stereotypical jokes with no bite? Then embrace the dark side and let yourself laugh at jokes that make you go "I'm going straight to hell for this" with a big naughty smile on your face.
Have Pun Malaysia have collected the best the comedy scene has to offer, and the worst society has rejected, to give you a delightfully morbid and shockingly amusing evening of humour with so much edge, you may cut yourself.
About the comics:
Riezman Radzlan (host): Acquiring his infidel accent from Bahrain, this zany word-play comic has performed in the open mic circuit for a year and has hosted both the Pun Competition and the Yo Mama Battles. He’s a bad shot but he aims to please.
Sim Tong: Sim has been performing stand-up for the past five years, making people laugh at things they shouldn’t. He has appeared in the Astro Awani show “Komediri I”I and the iFlix original show “Oi Jaga Mulut”.
Nicholas Lim: A deadpan comedian with admittedly has zero social skills, this up-and-coming open mic-er enjoys exploring the dark and perverse inarticulate and unexpected ways, particularly when they arouse him. Sometimes in public.
Harresh A.u: Harresh is a boy only a mother would love. But that mother is not his. He has a mom, but she doesn’t know it. This subtle and clever comic has also been on Astro and is an iFlix alumnus.
Aiman Azri: A quietly intelligent and droll comedian, Aiman raises sarcastic apathy to a high art. Having graced many comedy stages, he now can't wait to disgrace the After Dark Show.
Faisal Merican: The first Have Pun competition was his stage debut and he would go on to win its third episode. "It goes to show", he says. "even a lame-ass like me gets lucky every once in a while."
Abdul Raqib Karim: From stories about fun times at an emergency ward to the virtues of incompetent terrorists, his jokes get so dark enough to suffer systemic racial discrimination. He goes on to say, "I'm perfectly normal. The voices in my head tell me so".
Keren Bala Devan (Headliner): Keren is the angriest comedian alive. How he did not burst into flames years ago, we do not know. His comedy is pointed, fierce and as unpredictable as a prison stabbing when the lights go out in your cell. All audience members beware, The Dark Joke rises.
THE BEE, PUBLIKA : 36, Block C, Level G2, Publika, Solaris Dutamas, Jalan Dutamas 1, KL
Door tickets: RM25 each. (Entry + a copy of ‘Somewhere Under The Atmosphere’ album).
Merchandise will be available from Macbeth, Scarlet Heroes and Desdemona. Call 03-7960 22160 or e-mail bees@thebee.com.my
JANUARY 20 : Beverley Matujal Solo at Ril’s
A Sabahan with a long standing love affair with songwriting and music. Plays the keys, guitar and the kazoo (she wishes). Cathc her captivating solo performance live at Ril’s.
RIL’S BANGSAR : 30, Jalan Telawi 5, Bangsar Baru, KL
Call 03-2201 3846 or e-mail reservations@rils.com.my
JANUARY 21 : Le Noir KL presents Acoustic Fourplay live on stage
A live Acoustic Band, lined up of musicians who have been in the music industry for more than a decade. Ideally named, simply performing songs ranging from the late 60s up to the current Top 40s in an acoustic manner to sooth your every acoustic musical fantasy.
LE NOIR KL
Unit H-G-07, The Hive, TREC, Lot 435, Jalan Tun Razak, KL
Roof terrace opens at 5pm. To reserve your spot: Book online: https://form.jotform.me/LeNoirKL/book-a-table. Email: reservations@lenoir.com.my / Phone/WhatsApp: +60122245416
Valet parking available.
JANUARY 23 : Nik Qistina at No Black Tie
Nik Qistina started singing at three years old, and her passion for music has only grown ever since. As many her age do, Qistina started her career on YouTube, and was made famous from her Vine videos, which were viewed by millions across the world, and from her bubbly and relatable personality, she has amassed tens of thousands of social media followers.
Qistina is a natural entertainer, and her easy ability to capture an audience on camera and on stage, her singing-songwriting skills, and her stunning beauty, combined with her soulful, warm, voice, makes her a sure candidate to be the next big thing.
She was discovered by Universal Music Malaysia in February 2016, and in the short time span since, has taken the stage with American golden boy Greyson Chance in Kuala Lumpur and Penang, performed at the renowned Istana Budaya in front of Malaysian pop queen Dato’ Siti Nurhaliza, and featured on the song ‘Raikan Raya’ with Jes Ibrahim, Hafiz, and others.
She released her first single on the 16th of September 2016, a dance-pop track, titled ‘Young Hearts’. The song is available in different versions for listening on all digital music platforms.
NO BLACK TIE : 17, Jalan Mesui, off Jalan Nagasari, Kuala Lumpur
Admission fee RM42. Call 03-2142 3737 after 5pm or visit www.noblacktie.com.my for bookings.
JANUARY 24 : P. Ramlee Tribute: New Village Music Lab
New Village Music Lab was formed by Tengku Indra in April 2016, and aims to boost people’s interest in classic and modern jazz music. Inspired by Postmodern Jukebox, NVML brings its own twist with an approach towards local evergreen songs.
The band collaborates with local artists and non-artists, in way creating a platform for new faces to showcase their talent. Some of the artists who have been featured in the bands many recordings include Diandra Arjunaidi, Orked Farhan, Mazlina A. Manan, Mira TILU, Janine Annice, Kirana Kay, Sherie Merlis, Iqa Nasra, Lea Ismail, Siska Khalil, Hani & Zue, Lokman Aslam, Shasha, Jimmy Sax, Faliq Auri, Dennis Lau.
NO BLACK TIE : 17, Jalan Mesui, off Jalan Nagasari, Kuala Lumpur
Admission fee RM42. Call 03-2142 3737 after 5pm or visit www.noblacktie.com.my for bookings.
JANUARY 25 : Tribute to the 80s featuring Pete Kallang at No Black Tie
Miri – Sarawak Born Pete Kallang – dubbed the vocal Prince of Borneo by many of his fans – is best known for his soulful voice and joyful persona and amazing live performances. Pete’s performances bring fun and a rainbow of colour to the local music scene. Audiences appreciate his passion for music and are always emotionally engaged during his live performances as he takes them on a wondrous musical journey.
Even at the most formal of functions, Pete Kallang is sure to put a big smile on your face and move you to a musical high of sorts as he delivers each and every song in his own unique way. Pete understands that music is about creating an epic journey in each song for the audience to go on while maintaining its artistic value and integrity.
The authenticity of Pete Kallang captivates audience in similarity to many great legends like James Brown, Paul Simon, Marvin Gaye, Earth Wind and Fire. Pete Kallang has that quality of musical greatness and it comes out in each and every performance.
Without a doubt, he is one of the most prolific musical performers to come out of Sarawak in the 21st century and is certainly destined to become a true Sarawakian Musical Legend in his own right!
NO BLACK TIE : 17, Jalan Mesui, off Jalan Nagasari, Kuala Lumpur
Admission fee RM53. Call 03-2142 3737 after 5pm or visit www.noblacktie.com.my for bookings.
JANUARY 25 : Open Crack at Crackhouse
Get over that mid-week slump with a dose of comedy as it’s supposed to be – uncensored and honest. Raw, fast paced and edgy, Open Crack! Witness the grassroots comedy scene with newbies, regulars and if you’re lucky a surprise guest comic.
The best 3 minute set of the night will cash RM100 AND an opportunity to perform on the weekend shows.
To perform, just turn up at 8.00pm on the night itself to sign up. List closes at 8.45pm. Prepare 3 minutes of material.
Crackhouse Comedy Club KL : 1st Floor, 24A, Lorong Rahim Kajai 14 Taman Tun Dr Ismail, KL
Time : 9pm Showtime, Seating 8pm. Ticket : RM15 online / RM20 at the door
https://crackhouseopencrack.peatix.com. Call +60172603654 or email laugh@crackhousecomedy.asia for more info
JANUARY 25 : Bobby Tan live at Pisco Bar
Bobby Tan is back to serenade with big hits in acoustic versions that'll make everyone want to sing and dance. Go catch him jam and bring some beautiful music to the party.
PISCO BAR : 29, Jalan Mesui, off Jalan Nagasari, Kuala Lumpur
Call 03-2142 2900 or email info@piscobarkl.com
JANUARY 25 : Crackhouse Presents : Comedy Rojak' Night, a bi-lingual Comedy Night 9pm Showtime
Rojak Comedy! Crackhouse’s twice a month mixed-lingo open mic show for English / BM audiences only. It’s a mash up of Malaysian humour delivered in our mother tongue of Bahasa and the tongue of our colonial invaders.
Or, in Malay - Rojak Comedy menampilkan persembahan komedi "Stendap" di dalam Bahasa Melayu dan Bahasa Inggeris!
Crackhouse Comedy Club KL : 1st Floor, 24A, Lorong Rahim Kajai 14 Taman Tun Dr Ismail, KL
9pm. Ticket price: RM15 online / RM20 at the door. https://crackhousecomedyrojak.peatix.com. Call +60172603654 or email laugh@crackhousecomedy.asia for more info.
