Live sounds around the Klang Valley straddling the end of March into April. Music of all kinds from jazz, classical, indie and rock to theatre and comedy, here’s a look at the week ahead in Kuala Lumpur!
Check out any of the events mentioned by also visiting: https://thecitylist.my/whats-on
MARCH 30: Aina Abdul at No Black Tie
Aina Abdul is no stranger to Malaysia’music scene. Fondly known as Aina Mentor, the title derived from the national prime reality television singing competition “Mentor” in which she was selected to participate in 2014. She came into the limelight after becoming the first runner-up of the show under the apprenticeship of Malaysia’s Queen of Rock, Ella. This was not the only highlight of her achievements in that particular year. She later surprised Malaysia and the world as she rose to win the Senior Grand Vocalist Champion’s title in the World Championships of Performing Arts (WCOPA) held in Hollywood, Los Angeles. This young lady can certainly take any stage by storm.
When not showcasing her talent on national and international stages, Aina can be found practising her craft whether as a music degree student, vocal teacher or performer.
Aina has been actively composing her own material and has started performing at some of KL’s best live venues. Aina has been using the opportunity as a medium to create her own kind of music for her fans. She believes in originality and that creating her own sound would inspire listeners with her story. Modern R&B and soul are her favourite genre.
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.
MARCH 30: Soundstruck : Live (March 2018)
The most popular live music series in the Klang Valley is back for the fourth year running. Free up your calendars every last Friday of each month to enjoy a night great music and good fun. The local music scene is bursting with talent and this platform will continue to serve as a catalyst for many young acts to kickstart their journeys. Soundstruck : Live is hosted with love by Wanted Symphony in collaboration with The Bee. Want to be a part of the community or perform at the event? Write into info.wantedsymphony@gmail.com.
This month, come and catch these guys rocking out: Flying Pan, Yasher, All To Fate - ATF, Beverly Matujal, Tashya's Ink and of course, Wanted Symphony.
THE BEE, PUBLIKA : 36, Block C, Level G2, Publika, Solaris Dutamas, Jalan Dutamas 1, KL . Limited early bird tickets are on sale now http://t2u.asia/e/10640 . Call 03-7960 22160 or e-mail bees@thebee.com.my
MARCH 30/31: Crackhouse presents Jocelyn Chia (SG)
Jocelyn Chia is a New York based standup comedian originally from Singapore. A lawyer-turned comedian, she was featured on cnbc.com for winning the Gotham Comedy Club’s Funniest Lawyer Competition. She has been a guest comedian on the Howard Stern Channel of Sirius XM, and a guest host on MTV. She made her standup television debut on AXS TV’s Gotham Comedy Live, hosted by William Shatner. She is also a two time winner of the Moth Storyslams. She won the 2016 Ladies of Laughter Competition, and in 2017 she received the “Rising Star Award – Comedy” at the Asian American Television and Film Festival.
Warnig: Video contains strong language
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.
MARCH 30/31: Benjamin Northey (AUS) conducts the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra (MPO)
Australian conductor Benjamin Northey returns to Dewan Filharmonik PETRONAS to helm the MPO this weekend in performances of music from Beethoven and Mozart. Malaysian pianist Loo Bang Hean guests, performing Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No 2 with the MPO>
DEWAN FILHARMONIK PETRONAS: Level 2, Tower 2, PETRONAS Twin Towers, KLCC, KL . Tickets: RM150, RM120, RM90 and 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 03-2331 7007, you may also purchase online. Visit the MPO website for more details - http://www.mpo.com.my/
MARCH 30/31: Bobo KL presents Cheeshen Tan & Misa Yamamoto
Romanze de Camera with pianist Misa Yamamoto Music and tenor CheeShen Tan as they put the ‘class’ in ‘Classical’ for an evening of Spanish, French, German and Italian vocal chamber music. The evening’s repertoire includes De Falla’s “Siete Canciones Populares”, selections from Schubert’s “Winterreise” and art songs by Verdi and Puccini, rarely performed in Kuala Lumpur. A Bobo first.
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.
MARCH 30: Le Noir KL presents Live: Nutserlar Lim
Le Noir KL presents Nutserlar 林巧慧 - Team Hanjin live on stage.
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.
MARCH 30: MM 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
MARCH 30/31: Alexis Bistro presents Talitha Tan
A young, talented and aspiring singer-songwriter, Talitha Tan is fast making her mark on the local music scene. Despite her humble beginnings on YouTube, Talitha is part of a new generation of young musicians who are changing the scene in the Malaysian music industry.
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
MARCH 31: Q Sound at No Black Tie
Since moving to Kuala Lumpur in 2009 from New York, Q Sound or better known as Marques Young has made profound contributions to the development of the growing jazz culture in South East Asia. Through his bands ‘Q Sound Band’ and the ‘Bassment Syndicate‘, he has led numerous performances at jazz venues throughout the region, including sold-out performances at the Dewan Filharmonik Petronas as part of DFP’s Happy Hour Series. He’s also initiated several educational projects where he has had the opportunity to mentor outstanding young jazz musicians. Among these projects, the Jazz Camp at DFP, mentored by Marques and a number of young jazz stars from New York City, resulted in his appointment as artistic director of the Encounter Jazz Program.
Marques began his musical studies at age twelve with the euphonium under the direction of Gordon Manley. At sixteen, he was also playing trombone, and in 2001 was accepted into Arkansas Tech University School of Music, studying under Dr. Will Kimball. During his undergraduate studies, he received numerous awards and honors, including an invitation to the Leonard Falcone International Euphonium Solo Competition, where he was awarded first runner-up.
And most recently he’s collaborated with Malaysian electronica producers Dangerdisko on the new single “Free”.
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.
MARCH 31: Le Noir KL presents Stan Konnexions
Le Noir KL presents StanKonnexions featuring Zharif Slowjamz (Alejandro Nawawi) and Irma Seleman live on stage.
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.
MARCH 31: Tiga Soul at Saturday Night Vibes
Tiga Soul consists of three very established singers: Sachié Amira, Kelly Siew and Alesia Dhana. They started performing together on a six-month stint of Cabaret Showcase, but their chemistry proved to be stronger which led them to form the trio which has been delivering captivating performances, each armed with different themes, costumes and choreography.
Sachié with her soulful voice, Alesia the R&B sweetheart and Kelly as a vocal powerhouse complement each other perfectly. Three very different individuals, each with a strong personality, come together as one; bringing you harmonious yet dynamic performances, carrying you through a visual and audio journey.
SHOOK KL: Feast Village, Starhill Gallery 181, Jalan Bukit Bintang, KL : Call 03-2782 3875
APRIL 1: Faridah’s Nephew and that Doctor Dude at KLPac
A chamber music performance featuring pianist, Lokman Merican, violinist, Peter Jesudason & cellist, Jonathan Oh. The musicians will dress casually while playing Classical music on stage.
Pentas 2, KLPAC: Sentul Park, Jalan Strachan, KL . Tickets RM35. Call 03-4047 9000 or visit www.ticketpro.com.my or www.klpac.org for full details.
APRIL 1: Salammusik Showcase "Gemalai Waktu"
Come and chill at Salammusik's "Gemalai Waktu" showcase in The Bee, bringing you some good vibes with reggae, hip hop, dub and Irama music. The night will be kicked off by the young and talented Hip-Hop artist Airliftz, together with his band. And all the way from Langkawi; King I Dub Selector who will be sharing his love for reggae and dub. Impossible to stand still on his set. Salammusik, known for their energetic performance, will be playing unreleased songs and their favourite hits.
THE BEE, PUBLIKA : 36, Block C, Level G2, Publika, Solaris Dutamas, Jalan Dutamas 1, KL . Limited early bird tickets are on sale now: http://www.salammusik.com/Salammusik/Tickets.html Call 03-7960 22160 or e-mail bees@thebee.com.my
APRIL 1: 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 3: Imran Aiman at No Black Tie
A new city. A new mentality. A new sound. After venturing out from his home town to go and live and study in the UK, Kuala Lumpur-born saxophonist Imran Aiman has discovered for himself what it means to explore life beyond the traditional jazz rites of passage. Still loyal to the Charlie Parkers and the Miles Davis’s that nurtured his introduction to the jazz world, he found himself thrown into an exciting underground jazz movement, sessioning around London’s best venues with burgeoning talents such as David Mrakpor of Blue Lab Beats, Sheldon Agwu – currently touring with Jordan Rakei, and forming a band called ATBS (AnyThing But Standards).
Being exposed to the centre of this blossoming jazz revolution led him to the sounds of Nu Jazz, fronted by international artists such as Kamasi Washington, Christian Scott Atunde-Adjuah and FKJ. Now back in his home town where his journey began, Imran is taking his career to the next level, front lining a new project which reflects the current stage of his journey.
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 3: 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 4: Kangkung Belacan at No Black Tie
Kangkung Belacan is a jazz ensemble comprising of Sabahans Alton Wong on the piano, Icco Elnoel on the bass guitar, Adriel Wong on the drums and Annabel Tiu on vocal. The band made their debut performance last year at the 4th Malaysian Jazz Piano Festival, held at the KL Performing Arts Centre in January 2017 where they featured saxophone virtuoso and mentor, Julian Chan.
The band has also been invited to perform at No Black Tie and Bobo KL in conjunction with International Jazz Day, as well as the KK Jazz Festival, and a jazz fusion concert in Universiti Sains Malaysia last year. The band performs repertoire that includes jazz standards from the swing era all the way to modern compositions, originals, as well as catchy tunes you would normally hear on the radio, rearranged to suite the band’s style.
NO BLACK TIE: 17, Jalan Mesui, off Jalan Nagasari, Kuala Lumpur: Admission fee RM32. Call 03-2142 3737 after 5pm or visit www.noblacktie.com.my for bookings.
APRIL 4: 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 5: Irma Seleman at No Black Tie.
The funky songbird from the East, Irma puts together grooves, melodies, and harmonies that reflects her journey in life, love and music. With the ability to arrange and produce music organically and electronically, Irma brought her Malaysian root sound into the music of Soul and R&B and made it her own distinct blend.
Finding her ground in the giant cities like New York and Los Angeles, Irma has carved her name throughout the globe through her tours for her debut album “My World” in the US, Europe and Southeast Asia. Irma is constantly spreading her wings reaching out to new souls with one mission; bringing people together through music.
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 5: 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.
APRIL 5: Kayda - Love For No Reason (Album Launch & Showcase)
Kayda is thrilled to announce the release of ‘Love For No Reason”, her heartfelt debut album produced largely by Indonesia’s rising star, Emir Hermono.
The six-track hip hop/R&B album explores Kayda’s personal and arduous journey through love, from heartbreak to hope, giving us a peek into her personal stories and insights. Crafted with raw emotions that are expressed through Kayda’s hard-hitting rap style, the album invites listeners into a deeper conversation about our reasons to love.
Although a permanent resident of Malaysia’s hip hop music scene, “Love Me For No Reason” heralds the official beginning of Kayda’s solo rap stint, preceding a long list of renowned underground releases. The album is led by its first single released online (Spotify/Apple Music/Tidal) on January 12, 2018, “Call On Me”, featuring Malaysian jazz legend, Sheila Majid.
THE BEE, PUBLIKA : 36, Block C, Level G2, Publika, Solaris Dutamas, Jalan Dutamas 1, KL. 8pm. Limited pre-sale tickets and group bundles available now at www.rtb.my . Call 03-7960 22160 or e-mail bees@thebee.com.my
APRIL 5: Kaya Wild Acoustic at Pisco Bar
Kaya loves electrifying audiences with their rock n roll show but this time they’re performing an acoustic set. Because Kaya, the band, never puts on the same show twice, and you'll never hear them play the same version twice.
Like a live art piece onstage with their charisma, shows get memorably entertaining. Known for their infectious cover beats and flair, wise advise from the band : put your dancing shoes on, you'd be dancing for sure.
PISCO BAR: 29, Jalan Mesui, off Jalan Nagasari, Kuala Lumpur: Call 03-2142 2900 or e-mail info@piscobarkl.com