Now into in the third week of April, here’s a look at the week ahead in Kuala Lumpur's nightlife scene for Live sounds and events. Music of all kinds from jazz, classical, indie and rock to theatre and comedy!
Check out any of the events mentioned by also visiting: https://thecitylist.my/whats-on
APRIL 20/21: From Ravel to Rock at the DFP
Zany and uproarious virtuosic violinist Igudesman and pianist Joo return to KL with their delightfully daft new show UpBeat, which takes audiences on a madcap musical ride from Ravel to rock. The baton turns into a ‘weapon of mass conduction’ and the tug of war over who gets to give the initial upbeat has the concert off to a tumultuous start.
DEWAN FILHARMONIK PETRONAS (DFP): 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/
APRIL 20: David Bowie Tribute ft Diamond Dogs & The Moonbeams
Diamond Dogs are a good time, rock and roll party band put together in loving tribute to the genius and killer songs of David Bowie. Comprising players from local acts Mystery Tapes and Cats in Love, Diamond Dogs are four Bowie freaks living out the seventies rock dream on stage. With Ziggy’s Spiders from Mars as the musical and sonic template, Diamond Dogs live is an adrenaline fuelled, rock and roll sprint down glam rock memory lane to totally get your rocks off to. So come and freak out to the moonage daydream. Nail polish, satin and glitter are mandatory and non negotiable.
The Moonbeams – A David Bowie Tribute-Project-Band by Johann Sultan who was also once the frontman for the local Alt. Folk outfit The Cotton Field Scarecrowes and a short lived project call ‘The Wakeful Distillers’. Johann is in the mid of finishing his brand new musical project due this year. The Moonbeams consists of friends and fellow musicians that came together on the same note in feeding their passion and deliverance. The band will be covering a good mixture of the old, groovy and modern hits and masterpieces.
NO BLACK TIE: 17, Jalan Mesui, off Jalan Nagasari, Kuala Lumpur: Admission fee RM42. Concert menu RM141.28. Call 03-2142 3737 after 5pm or visit www.noblacktie.com.my for bookings.
APRIL 20/21: Crackhouse presents Ro Campbell
UK based Aussie Ro Campbell’s relentlessly entertaining and award winning brand of cheeky slightly dark humour has wowed audiences in over 40 countries. He has performed at the last 10 Edinburgh Fringe festival’s and has made The Scotsman’s pick of Best Jokes of The Fringe. In 2010 he was crowned Scottish Comedian Of The Year (slightly controversial being Australian and all).
He has also written for British TV and Radio, featured regularly on BBC Radio in topical panel shows, history shows and live stand up recordings. He has made numerous solo show appearances at Glasgow International Comedy Festival, NZ Comedy Festival, Adelaide Fringe, Perth Fringeworld, Melbourne International Comedy Festival and performed extensively on the club circuit in Europe, the Middle East, South East Asia and India.
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://rodoescrack.peatix.com . Call +60172603654 or email laugh@crackhousecomedy.asia for more info.
APRIL 20/21: Bobo KL presents Tria Aziz
It's been a while, but Tria Aziz is headed back to the Bobo stage—and kali ini, this actress and singer extraordinaire takes on Whitney Houston. Quite a daunting task, if it weren't Ms Tria Aziz with her powerhouse vocals and crazy range.
BOBO KL: 65-1, Jalan Bangkung, Bangsar, KL . Dine with them before the show. Admission RM60++/ RM45++ for Bobo diners. For reservations call 03-2092 5002.
APRIL 20: Nutserlar Lim Live at Le Noir KL
Nutserlar Lim performs today with a number of accomplished musicians in the city’s live entertainment circuit. She continues to wow audiences with her inimitable style and stage presence. Her wide repertoire ranging from jazz standards to pop promises something for everyone’s musical palate. Although much into current favourites like Beyonce, Bruno Mars, Ariana Grande and Selena Gomez, this soulful young lady also find her greatest inspiration from old greats including Ella Fitzgerald and Tony Bennett.
LE NOIR KL: Unit H-G-07, The Hive, TREC, Lot 435, Jalan Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur. 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.
APRIL 20/21: Alexis Bistro presents Shahrizan Borhan
Known as Malaysia’s King of Swing, Shahrizan Borhan will take you down memory lane with a variety of Pop and Ballad renditions in English and Bahasa Malaysia. So let your hair down, be yourself, just relax and have an enjoyable evening with him at Alexis.
ALEXIS BISTRO AMPANG: Great Eastern Mall, 303, Jalan Ampang, KL. Dress code applies: No Shorts & Slippers. Showtime 10pm. Table bookings for diners only. For more information, please call 03 4260-2288 or log on to www.alexis.com.my
APRIL 20: Stan Konnexions with Jordan Rivers (Live)
Jordan Rivers is a virtuosic electric guitarist renowned for his ensemble playing as well as his interpretation and promotion of the electric guitar repertoire. Not only is he famous for his ever persistent tempo with the fingerboard but as well as his alluring voice accompanied by some soulful funk music.
The Kuala Lumpur Jazz Festival brought together a hybrid drummer, Stan Konnexions and a seasoned impressive guitarist cum singer to work together on a totally different dimension of rocking some funk, soul music. Both of them together create a different term for the genre of funk and soul.
RIL’S BANGSAR: 30, Jalan Telawi 5, Bangsar Baru, KL : Call 03-2201 3846 or e-mail reservations@rils.com.my
APRIL 21: One Republic Live in KL
MERDEKA STADIUM: Jalan Stadium, KL . Tickets from RM303.50 upwards are available from TicketCharge Malaysia www.ticketcharge.com.my
APRIL 21: Dani at NBT
DANI is an aspiring Jazz/blues singer. With her unique voice, she makes covers sound vintage, and has most recently been writing and performing her own originals.
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.
APRIL 21: J-Music Fest Vol 2 at The Bee
J-Music Fest is back in KL. Excellent Japanese performers supported by local talented musicians will perform, J-Rock, Seiko Matsuda (Everlasting Top Female Idol In Japan) Cover, Steely Dan cover and even original songs in Japanese. Rock Samurai, The JV Band Reunion, Punk Berry and Shigeru Kimoto feature.
THE BEE, PUBLIKA : 36, Block C, Level G2, Publika, Solaris Dutamas, Jalan Dutamas 1, KL. Free entry. Call 03-7960 22160 or e-mail bees@thebee.com.my
APRIL 21: Gregory Ramanado and Syima at Le Noir KL
Gregory Ramanado is a versatile Malaysian songster. Known for his charismatic and high energy persona on stage, engaging his audiences with his funky flavour of musicality. With Syima featuring this night.
LE NOIR KL: Unit H-G-07, The Hive, TREC, Lot 435, Jalan Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur. 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.
APRIL 21: Land Down Under with Sandra and Alex
RIL’S BANGSAR: 30, Jalan Telawi 5, Bangsar Baru, KL : Call 03-2201 3846 or e-mail reservations@rils.com.my
APRIL 21: Intim Sessions at Indicine KLPac
Intim sessions bring you gems of the local music scene with two indie darlings – Bil Musa, an emotional lovelorn folk/pop singer-songwriter, and Shuuna, an act of nostalgia with a modern twist.
Nabilah Musa, also known as Bil Musa, is an upcoming Malaysian singer-songwriter born and raised in Kuala Lumpur. She started out playing the piano when she was 7 and went on to write her own songs at the age of 16. She has been interested in music and the music industry from a very young age. Her urban upbringing gave birth to her appreciation of indie bands and music. She has written several songs, and although she has a vast amount of English songs, she pushes for Malay songs every so often.
Moja was an active member of alternative-rock band, Monalyssa, when he met Shuu as she joined them as guest singer recurringly. In 2016, the two of them decided to form Shuuna with the help of other experienced session musicians as they journeyed into the Malay folk genre. Due to various circumstances, they ended up playing as a duo more often than as band. In March 2017, they rebranded their sound as indie-electronic-Nusantara when they released their first EP, “Torsades de Pointes”. The duo was later joined by Fai of Paper Plains- further enhancing the whole dynamic of this act.
KLPAC: Sentul Park, Jalan Strachan, KL . Call 03-4047 9000 or visit www.klpac.org Admission: RM15 minimum. Call 03-4047 9000.
APRIL 21: Indierock at Black Box
Indierock with artists featured: Salam Musik, Masdo, The Times AKA, Grey Sky Morning, Johnny Comes Lately, Skudap Skudip, Orkes A Hizadin, Esclave, Lost Control, Margasatwa, Shuuna, Fox Wanna Fly.
BLACK BOX MAPKL: Publika, Solaris Dutamas, Jalan Dutamas 1, KL. 3pm onwards. Tickets RM35 pre sale / RM50 door. Call 012-248 9770.
APRIL 22: Switch On x Mü-Nest - an electronic music showcase
As part of this year MAP Fest, KL-based indie label mü-nest is collaborating with Switch ON - a platform for electronic arts in KL, to present you the label's first label showcase in 2018. After the success of the label showcase in Kyoto, Tokyo, Beijing and Prague, this year the label showcase is returning to KL for the 4th time. This round, the label will be showcasing to our local audience 4 wonderfully talented affiliates of mü-nest label:
Tokyo-based audio-visual wizard Okamotonoriaki, cinematic electronica maestro Akitsugu Fukushima, renowned melodic ambient duo Euseng Seto + Ken Lee, and multi-talented Dae Kim (whose highly anticipated debut album will be released by mü-nest in April this year). In addition, local sound-art hero Goh Lee Kwang and uprising electronica duo FNGDY are also joining the line up to bring you a showcase full of mesmerisingly melodic electronic music. And to complement this wonderfully crafted electronic music, they will have the talented visual artist from Macao, oswei, and our very own visual master, Wong Eng Leong, to fascinate you with stunning live visuals.
BLACK BOX MAPKL: Publika, Solaris Dutamas, Jalan Dutamas 1, KL. 4pm onwards. Tickets pre book RM20 (email to: goh.leekwang@gmail.com). RM30 door. Call 012-248 9770.
APRIL 22: LastLogic EP Launch
After a year since LastLogic won the Guinness Amplify's Recording Studio Competition which landed them a 5-songs production deal with Big A Productions, they are finally ready to release their EP to the world. Although already launched online on the 1st of March, this will be the official launch party for the EP. LastLogic draws a vague influence from bands like Deftones, Chevelle, Switchfoot, Incubus and 30 Seconds To Mars - the pumping rhythm section; the powerful yet energetic guitars; the vindictive voice that conveys emotions to their songs’ lyrical significance. They blare a coalescence of nu metal and killer choruses, infused with synth-heavy arrangements while keeping rock elements dominant. Each song is filled with energy manifested with nostalgia-esque sentimentalism.
Tempered Mental AND Kyoto Protocol will be featured acts of the night. Darren Teh from the band An Honest Mistake will be hosting the show.
THE BEE, PUBLIKA : 36, Block C, Level G2, Publika, Solaris Dutamas, Jalan Dutamas 1, KL. Call 03-7960 22160 or e-mail bees@thebee.com.my
APRIL 22: 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, Kuala Lumpur. 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.
APRIL 23: The Music of the Beatles at NBT
Billie Blue & The Nowhere Men take on The Beatle’s songs. Billie Blue & The Nowhere Men is a folk-rock outfit comprised of 4 members, with American-Malaysian Billie Blue Blackstone on vocals.
Often described as raw and vintage, the band draws their influences from groups of the late 60s and early 70s, while also experimenting with the various musical sensibilities that each member brings.
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.
APRIL 24/25: Don Gomes & Aya Sekine piano duo at NBT
Don Gomes is recognized as one of Southeast Asia’s finest jazz talents. He is in demand across Australia and Asia for his skill as a pianist, arranger, musical director, performer and composer. Don has studied jazz in New York with Andy LaVerne and Steve Kuhn and has represented Australia in the Martial Solal International Jazz Competition in Paris.
Don’s international musical credits include Johnny Griffin, Herb Ellis, Ronnie Scott, Jeff and John Clayton, Scott Hamilton, Vincent Herring, Don Menza and Bill Berry, Pete King, Bobby Shew, Pete Christleib, Red Holt and Eldee Young, Tommy Whittle, Venetta Fields, Junior Cook, Sheila Jordan and Miles Davis.
Aya Sekine is a Japanese jazz pianist/composer currently based in Singapore who has been performing internationally over the past 25 years. Born into a family of music lovers, her musical journey has begun as early as 4, and never stopped ever since.
She is best known for her soulful and dynamic style of jazz that is heavily influenced by Bebop and straight-ahead. Over the years Aya has been mentored by Yuki Arimasa and Aaron Goldberg who are not only great jazz pianists but highly acclaimed educators, but what makes her ultimately unique is her wide spectrum of music influences cultivated through years of improvisations and cross genre collaborations with artists from different genres. While being passionate about jazz, she had also been a part of an experimental underground music scene in New York City during the 90’s where she was involved in alternative music such as rockabilly, surf music, hardcore punk and noise.
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.
APRIL 24: Comedy Court 20th Anniversary
It's been 20 years since Comedy Court first graced the comedy scene. What better way to celebrate its 20th Anniversary than to have Allan Perera and Indi Nadarajah once again bring to life your favourite characters: Loga and Singam, Mertle and Thawi, T.K. and K.C. from Executive Spa, the two Malaysian MPs, and a few special surprises... Hold on to your seats as these wacky characters appear on stage once again to bring you a giggle-filled, rip-roaring night of non-stop laughter!
In aid of:
Narrative Movements – a group of international artists who endeavour for global integration for the sustainable development of society. Most of their unconventional art and cultural events are built on their firm believes that it is possible to highly develop communities through cultural exchange. Art is after all for humanity.
Indigo Art – based in Malaysia, Indigo Art plays activist to raise awareness of true art and culture. Art Projects, Local Residencies and Pop-up exhibitions allows the movement to be fluid and accessible.
Chrystal Home Taiping – Chrystal Home in Taiping began by fostering only 2 children. Since then, the founder Chantal Dorai had to expand two homes (one for boys and one for girls) to accommodate more than 30 children. The home is constantly faced with challenges and uphill tasks. With communal support, these children can go a long way to develop and lead better lives.
Galaxy Hall, HGH Convention Centre. 475, Jalan Sentul, Sentul Selatan, KL. Tickets from RM105 up available from www.airasiaredtix.com
APRIL 24: Soul Sessions at Jiro KL
A night of smooth R&B and soul favourites hosted by the talented Russell Curtis - Artiste and featuring some of his special friends.
JIRO KL: 61-1, Jalan Telawi 3, Bangsar Baru, Kuala Lumpur: Cover information and RSVP call 011-3916 9629.
APRIL 25: Bobo KL presents Gabe Lynch
Wednesdays with new artist in residence, singer songwriter Gabe Lynch.
BOBO KL: 65-1, Jalan Bangkung, Bangsar, KL. Dine with them before the show. Admission RM25++/ Free for Bobo diners. For reservations call 03-2092 5002.
APRIL 26: Lydmor Live in KL
At times it can seem like Danish singer Lydmor is everywhere at once. One moment she is standing on the top of a bar in a venue in Sao Paolo singing her heart out while the beat is pumping over her sweaty dancing audience. Next she playfully co-produces a track with J-pop legend Takeshi Kobayashi, or composes a soundtrack for an animated fantasy series. In between her myriad of creative collaborations (including critically acclaimed "Lydmor & Bon Homme") the young producer and singer has managed to tour most of the world several times, playing from the biggest festivals and venues to at times in the homes, in tiny living rooms, of her biggest fans.
The eccentric Scandinavian girl balances always on the tip of a knife’s edge between light and dark. Between loving and cold. Order and chaos. If you manage to catch one of her shows, she will flirt, dance, cry, scream and hug her way into your heart with a brutal honesty that comes across both in her pumping rhythmical electro sounds as well as her emotional dreamy side.
Multiple media has compared the quirky voice to the likes of Grimes, Kate Bush or Björk but inevitably the comparisons fall short. Lydmor is quite her own and since she returned from a mysterious stay in Shanghai in China she has been working on her coming album to be released in 2018.
THE BEE, PUBLIKA : 36, Block C, Level G2, Publika, Solaris Dutamas, Jalan Dutamas 1, KL. Advance: RM40 / Door RM50. Tickets available from www.galactix.asia . Call 03-7960 22160 or e-mail bees@thebee.com.my
APRIL 26: Bobo KL presents David Gomes
Thursdays with resident pianist and singer, the renowned performer, composer, arranger and producer David Gomes.
BOBO KL: 65-1, Jalan Bangkung, Bangsar, KL. Dine with them before the show. Admission RM25++/ Free for Bobo diners. For reservations call 03-2092 5002.
