JAMFEST FINALE
November 15, 2005, New Straits Times/Malay Mail

By ERROL DE CRUZ


THE CURTAINS GO DOWN on Backyard Pub's Jamfest 2005 on Thursday night with 15 musicians playing in a five-hour music extravaganza they promise you won't forget.

The acts are singer-guitarist Gerard Anthony, progressive rock band Tempered Mental, fusion band Cosmic Funk Express, percussion duo Kenny Hogan and Faiser Florez and rockers Viji, Fasy and Friends.

The big attraction seems to be the collaboration between Singaporean drummer Kenny Hogan and South American percussionist Faiser Florez.

Hogan is a leading drums clinician, music educator and performer. In his late 30s, he has performed with many local and regional bands, most notably his own KonFuzion, founded in early 2003, and recently renamed the Kenny Hogan Band.

Hogan has been experimenting with ethnic fusion music and will present a special percussive set with Florez, who hails from Cartagena, Colombia, and has performed and toured all over Central America with both regional and international bands.

Among the artistes he has recorded or toured with are Grammy Award winner Nestor Torres, Cuban violinist Alfredo de salsa singer Rey Ruiz.

Most recently, he has been plying his craft in the Southeast Asian region with popular Indonesian artistes Indra Lesmana, Glenn Fredly, Bella Saphira, Sello and Rio Febrian.

Gerard Anthony plays the electronic fretless Yamaha EZ-AG2004 guitar which features sensor pick-ups, but that doesn't prevent him from coaxing some melodious tunes from this synthesised, futuristic instrument.

Gerard, inspired by his late brother Jairus Anthony, Edmund Anthony who manages the Backyard music connection and SWV's Vishnu, also loves such country acts as James Taylor, Michael Martin Murphy, Edwin McCain, and Lonestar, and "music that's easy on the ears".

Tempered Metal comprises singer-bassist Melina, drummer Jimmy and guitarist Zack. Formed in February 2002, their music is "radio-friendly progressive rock with dark overtones".

The band's debut single, Honestly, defines its sound - inventive guitar work, an intricate bass line and smooth vocal delivery.

The friends Viji and Fasy speak of are guitarist Edmund Anthony and vocalists Justin Wah and Shahril.

Viji performed solo for 15 years, and with fiery guitarist Fasy, comes across with a powerful blend of gravelly voice and scintillating guitar solos, in a repertoire that harks back to the guitar-driven days of 70s.

Fasy, who also leads Playin' December, hails from the Maldives and first came to Malaysia in 1996 as a student. He has two albums - Cruising and Fasy: A Compilation.

Cosmic Funk plays a fusion of funk, rock and jazz and comprises Zack Kim on lead guitar, Alda Tan on bass and Alex Ang on drums.

The band's most notable gigs and events were the Music Canteen-NST Truck Tour Kuantan leg, Mont Kiara JazzFest, Sun Music Festival, Art for All Carnival, World Peace Concert, Kampong Fest, Fete De La Musique 2005 and HELP'S Battle Of The Bands.

According to a Backyard Press release, the Jamfest 2005 finale kicks off at 8pm, and we hope it does, after proper sound checks.

Two weeks ago, U Buy U Sell critiqued the bands for coming in late and performing without sound checks, and that brought on some very disgruntled responses which fully disregarded the website announcement that music would begin at 8.30pm, SHARP!

This time around, it's supposed to kick off at EIGHT! Our fingers are crossed, and we hope that guests won't be needing earplugs.

Last Thursday, there was a band which didn't care that the volume they played at drove away half the crowd, and a very talented guest singer. All its singing guitarist offered was: "We play kinda loud."

Who's paying who, we kinda wonder?

The Backyard Pub is located at 28, Jln Sri Hartamas 8, Kuala Lumpur. Call 012-2016 333 or 03-6201 0318 for details and directions.

Link: Photos
© News Straits Times Press Bhd

EVENT IN MEMORY OF LATE SINGER, GUITARIST
November 05, 2005, The Star

By STUART MICHAEL


FOR two consecutive years, Backyard Pub and Grill's Jamfest has been pulling in the crowd.

This year's Jamfest or Jamfest2005 is from Oct 20 to Nov 17.

The event features popular bands, pub acts and newcomers jamming together at the pub in Sri Hartamas.

"The inaugural Jamfest was organised in memory of the late singer and guitarist Jairus Anthony. Jairus, who played in pubs for two decades, died of pancreatic cancer last year," said the pub owner Jerry Chong.

"Money raised during the Jamfest will be given to charity," he said, adding that the pub raised RM13,720 for various charities last year.

Backyard Pub and Grill music director Edmund Anthony said they wanted to make this an annual affair for talented local musicians to play at a single venue and attract recording companies.

"This festival will also showcase young and up-and-coming songwriters to show their stuff and jam with the more experienced musicians performing at the pub.

"For some of the alternative and underground acts, this was their first paying gigs and they will never have such an appreciative audience when they perform elsewhere," said Edmund.

Among the local musicians performing include Julian’s Black Hammer, comprising former Blues Gang members Julian Mokhtar and Jim Mandasamy together with drummer Suhaimi, formerly from Ella and the Boys.

Solo female elektro-pop artiste Saer Ze, 22, who recently launched her album entitled Shameless was at the event.The pub's website backyardpub.com features all the happenings at the pub including upcoming events and gig guides.

For details, call 03-6201 0318.

Links: News release | Photos
© News Straits Times Press Bhd

JAMFEST'05 ROCKS!
October 30, 2005, New Sunday Times

By SUBASHINI NAIR


THE string of performances serving up to some delectable rock, electro-pop, blues, rock and roll, reggae and salsa over the last few weeks has been strictly top drawer stuff. The fact that it all happened at your unassuming neighbourhood pub is remarkable.

For the uninitiated, the Backyard Pub has long been a venue for good live music performances. It has certainly carved a place for itself in the music scene in Sri Hartamas, Kuala Lumpur. What it lacks in size, it more than makes up for in atmosphere and has been a firm favourite with local musicians.

Last Thursday, the first week of JamFest ’05 kicked off with Right Gang featuring Zainal and Aziz, cheeky electro-pop Saer Ze and veteran Julian Moktar with his band Julian's Black Hammer featuring Suhaimi on drums and Jim Mandasamy on bass.

The Right Gang started the night off with some familiar rock tunes. The night was still young and it was just a warm up to what was in store for the rest of the night. But don't be fooled, these guys whooped it up good.

The next performance was something many did not foresee. A young lass who produced her own album from scratch without the help of recording labels, was strutting herself back and forth. One would have thought she was just a patron.

Saer Ze (pronounced Saa Zay) seemed a little nervous at first and her body language kept the audience guessing. "Is she a singer? But she's so young," went some whispers around me. Then again, the house was filled with matured rock-loving patriots and they didn't want another pretentious wannabe singer trying to get their attention.

Then she began singing. Her strong vocals may not have matched her petite frame but it certainly gave the crowd a taste of what she was capable off. She probably needs more experience performing gigs but this 23-year-old is definitely an artiste to watch out for. Her album Shameless is being sold at the Backyard Pub.

The highlight of the evening was of course Julian's Black Hammer. Julian did what he does best — he unleashed noise and classic rock rives with hints of haunting blues. A power play that rocked the house. No questions about that. Many loyal fans went wild.

There may have been slight technical errors but that did not stop the crowd from cheering and grooving to the music. This highly entertaining evening may have come to an end but the good thing is there are plenty more rollicking blues and rock parties every Thursday until Nov 17.

The next few weeks will see the pub playing host to Viji together with the Maldivian guitar star Fasy; and rock and percussion act La Viva, featuring Alphonse Jerome, progressive rock band Tempered Mental and highly infectious fusion band Cosmic Funk Express. Quite a line-up. And all free of charge. So just what exactly are you waiting for...?

Backyard Pub & Grill is located at No.28, Jalan Sri Hartamas 8, Taman Sri Hartamas, Kuala Lumpur. For details on Jamfest2005, visit http://www. backyardpub.com or call 03-6201-0318.

Links: News release | Photos
© News Straits Times Press Bhd

By ERROL DE CRUZ


MUSICIANS plying the Klang Valley pub and club circuit should be grateful that there are a handful whose managements are providing employment opportunities.

Among the nightspots in this elite group are The Wall (Jln Petaling, KL), Backyard (Tmn Sri Hartamas, KL), Waikiki (Kelab Syabas, Lrg Sultan, PJ) and Ol'Skool Bistro (Jln Gasing, PJ), all of which feature different acts every night of the week.

It's a great concept for all concerned. The management and audience get to be entertained by different acts nightly, and the artistes, too, have different faces to perform for; everything's fresh.

Backyard Pub, this month and the next, has its JamFest 2005 every Thursday, with three acts every night. Owner Jerry Chong said that part of the proceeds from this five-week music festival, (inaugurated last year as a tribute to late pub performer Jairus Anthony), will go to charity.

Thus, it was exhilarating to hear that we could go pub-hopping on Thursday as there were good acts to catch in three places. The Wall was featuring Viji, Fasee, Edmund and Justin.

Backyard was staging Frequency Cannon, Krude and La Viva.

Ol' Skool went one up that ladder and had two top billers - Centrestage champions SWV and the legendary and original Falcons!

We hear that things at The Wall in Chinatown went very well with the new quartet, but at Backyard and Ol'Skool, things weren't up to scratch.

At Ol' Skool, SWV, starring Seen, Wan and Vishnu, had the packed room rocking early with its repertoire of hits from the 70s and 80s, but the star-billers whose heyday was in the 60s and early 70s left behind a disillusioned audience.

Ol'Skool, run by deejay Calvin Gunaratne, boasted a standing-room crowd, many of whom were musicians of the Falcons era - Ronnie Pereira, Brian Pereira, Charles Nathaniel, Paul Cheah, Bala, Ralph Gomez, Clement Arul... the list goes on.

All had come to catch and partake of the reunion of one of the most influential bands in Malaysian rock history. The gig, however, fell flat.

Three Falcons - drummer Jerry Felix, keyboardist Grenville Pereira and bassist Jerry Ventura - turned up late and took the spotlight without a sound check.

This was a shame, really because we could all see the expertise up there. Felix had all his awesome rolls, Pereira had his chops, Ventura thumped along ably and guitarman Frankie Samuel showcased his famous rock-steady riffs. It was great to hear the hits the Falcons were famous for, especially those burners from Mountain and Cream. No one plays them today.

But for the soundmen, it was a nightmare, and try as they did, our feathered friends did not soar. Unwittingly, Ventura had it capped it when he introduced the set: "We haven't done this in more than 20 years, so don't expect much."

Unfortunately, brothers-in-arms, we did.

On the other side of town, the same thing was going on at Backyard. Some of us had gone there at eight hoping to catch at least two hours of JamFest 2005 before heading for 01' Skool. The opening bands - Frequency Cannon and Krude - however, turned up late and again, without an earlier sound check!

(CORRECTION: It was Frequency Cannon and not Krude that showed up late that night and delayed the proceedings. Apologies to all customers for the inconvenience caused due to circumstances beyond our control. From Backyard Pub management.)

Hey, guys! Do you think that we pay good money (happy hours or not) to listen to sound checks? When you get on stage, we expect that you would have got your act together. Patrons and publicans pay to put you on stage. Even if you don't get paid, you owe the audience good music.

Publicans are going out of their way to provide platforms for local and locally-based musicians. This effort must be reciprocated. That's the only way the music industry here will go anywhere.

But, the beat will go on at places like the ones we feature today.

Next week, 0l' Skool features Vernon and Fats (Monday), Os Pombos (Wednesday), La Viva (Thursday), President's Men (Friday) and Bonfire (Saturday). Deejays here include Calvin and Gandhi, so it's a complete package.

Backyard will present Double Take's Mia Palencia and Roger Wang, as well as Julian Mokhtar, Jim Madasamy and Shuhaimi (tonight), Viji, Fasy and their Vampire Friends (Monday), Raymond and Alwin (Wednesday), Alfred Ho and probably the Two Hats Gang (Thursday), Raymond Cheah, Jason Noah and Simon Justin Leo (Friday) and Albert, Vijay and Badar (Saturday).

For more, call 012-206 6444 (Ol' Skool Bistro) or 012-201 6333 (Backyard).
- ubuyusell@nstp.com.my

Link: Photos
© News Straits Times Press Bhd

GOOD TIMES FOR ALL AT JAMFEST2005
October 26, 2005, The Sun

FANS of rock music should make a beeline to the Backyard Pub & Grill in Sri Hartamas for a thumping good time at the Jamfest2005.

Held over five Thursdays from Oct 20 to Nov 17, the event brings together both young and promising acts with veteran musicians at a single venue.

High-energy rock band Frequency Cannon, old-style rock purveyors Krude and Latin rock percussion outfit La Viva will take to the stage tomorrow.

"We want to bring audiences an eclectic mix of great music from varied genres to make it a memorable and fun night for everyone," said Jamfest2005 music director Edmund Anthony.

In the line-up this week is Frequency Cannon (pix) who took first place at Astro Hitz.TV Blast Off band showdown in February. The band's music has been described as akin to The Cure and its stage performances nothing short of "high octane and electrifying".

This quintet, comprising Kua Chee on lead vocals, Azrul on bass, Yu-Ri on lead guitar, Siva on rhythm guitar and Dino on drums, have recorded an EP with four songs, two of which, Girl and Fame & Glory, are featured in the movie, Gol & Gincu.

Krude consists of six, sometimes seven, expatriates. The band's first-ever gig was at The Shamrock in Jalan Ampang on June 7, 2002. Since then, Krude has entertained with its brand of 60s and 70s covers of iconic bands such as the Beatles and The Rolling Stones.

La Viva is led by Alphonse Jerome and Mathew Charles, who formed a unique Latin rock and percussion band that has won a wide following in the local music circuit.

The six-piece band has a penchant for numbers made famous by Carlos Santana and Bob Marley and covers a wide repertoire of genres from rock, blues and reggae to Latin American.

The music starts at 9pm and there are no reservations, no cover charge, no tickets and, of course, no free loaders. For more info on Jamfest2005, check out http://www.backyardpub.com.

Links: News release | Photos
© The Sun

UNWIND AT JAMFEST2005
October 24, 2005, New Straits Times

By SHARIFAH ARFAH


EVERYONE wants to relax after a hard day's work. Some rest at home while others unwind at nightspots, listening to music or dancing.

If live music is your cup of tea, head to The Backyard Pub & Grill where Jamfest2005 is taking place every Thursday till Nov 17. It kicked off last Thursday.

It is the festival's second annual run and it aims at promoting young and upcoming bands along with veteran musicians.

The diverse music will cater to all genres and there are more than 15 dynamic bands including the recently crowned grand champions of Astro Hitz. TVs Blast Off! competition - Frequency Cannon. Progressive rock band Tempered Mental, fusion music rockers Cosmic Funk Express, and cheeky electro-pop artiste Saer Ze are also performing.

Among the veterans are former Blues Gang members Julian Mokhtar and Jim Mandasamy with drummer Suhaimi (formerly of Ella and the Boys) in a new band called Julian's Black Hammer, guitarists Viji and Fasy, and rock and percussion act La Viva featuring Alphonse Jerome.

Organiser Jerry Chong says Backyard Pub, which he owns, has always promoted homegrown musicians.

"Jamfest2005 will showcase some new dynamic acts. This is a great venue for them to strut their stuff," said Chong.

Last year, the music event attracted over 90 musicians. Held over seven weeks in October and November, the inaugural fest was in memory of late singer and guitarist Jairus Anthony, who performed at pubs for over two decades. He died of pancreatic cancer in July last year.

Jamfest2005 is for a good cause, too. It hopes to raise funds for charity. On the last night of Jamfest2004, an informal fund was set up and RM13.720 in pledges was raised. The fund was disbursed to four charities.

Backyard Pub is located at No. 28, Jalan Sri Hartamas 8, Taman Sri Hartamas, Kuala Lumpur. Showtime: 9pm onwards. Admission is free. For more info on Jamfest2005, call 03-6201-0318 or visit www.backyardpub.com.

Links: News release | Photos
© News Straits Times Press Bhd

JAMFEST AT BACKYARD
October 23, 2005, New Sunday Times

By SUBASHINI NAIR


THE Backyard Pub & Grill is organising Jamfest 2005, the second in the series.

The event kicked off last Thursday and will end on Nov 17.

To be held over the next four Thursdays, more than 15 bands from the local music scene will perform at the Sri Hartamas joint, including Frequency Cannon, the recently crowned grand champions of Astro Hitz.TV's Blast Off/ competition, progressive rock band Tempered Mental, fusion band Cosmic Funk Express, and cheeky electro-pop artiste Saer Ze.

Among the veterans on stage are former Blues Gang members Julian Mokhtar and Jim Mandasamy with drummer Suhaimi, formerly of Ella and the Boys, in a new band called Julian's Black Hammer; Viji with the Maldivian guitarist Fasy; and rock and percussion act La Viva, featuring Alphonse Jerome.

Jamfest last year drew more than 90 musicians and was held over seven weeks in October and November. The event is in memory of late singer and guitarist jairus Anthony, who played in pubs for over two decades and died of pancreatic cancer in July 2004.

"We wanted to continue in the spirit of last year's event which is to encourage young and experienced musicians to meet at a single venue to perform and get the attention they deserve," said Edmund Anthony, the music director of the event and brother of Jairus.

Jerry Chong, the owner of The Backyard Pub (28, Jalan Sri Hartamas 8, Kuala Lumpur) said the event is a great venue for the young and upcoming musicians to show off their talents.

"Last year, all invited musicians were paid for their participation. For some of the alternative and underground acts, it was their first paying gig and they never had such an appreciative audience," he said.

For details on Jamfest2005, check http://www.backyardpub.com or call 03-6201-0318.

Links: News release | Photos
© News Straits Times Press Bhd

JAMFEST AT BACKYARD
October 20, 2005, New Straits Times/Malay Mail

By ERROL DE CRUZ


"We are excited that this year's Jamfest will showcase some dynamic acts never seen on our stage. This is a great venue for them to strut their stuff." Publican Jerry Chong

The Backyard Pub and Grill is hosting its second Jamfest, tonight and over the next four Thursdays, and this second annual music festival will feature more than 15 vibrant and dynamic bands on the local music scene, including progressive rock band Tempered Mental, highly infectious fusion band Cosmic Funk Express, and cheeky electro-pop artiste Saer Ze.

Other stars for tonight's gig are former Blues Gang members Julian Mokhtar on lead guitar and Jim Mandasamy on bass, with drummer Suhaimi, formerly of Ella ind the Boys, in a new band called Julian's Black Hammer, and a duo called Right Gang, featuring Aziz and Zainal.

The coming shows wil features gravelly-voiced Viji together with rising Maldivian ptar star Fasy, Latin rock and percussion act La Viva which stars Alphonse 'Carlos' Jerome on guitar and Matthew 'Charlie Brown' Charles on bass.

"We are excited that this year's Jamfest will showcase some dynamic acts never seen on our stage.This is a great venue for them to strut their stuff "said Jerry Chong, head honcho of Backyard Pub and organiser of the Jamfest2005.

"Backyard has always promoted homegrown musicians and we are proud to make this year's Jamfest equally memorable and entertaining."

Last year, Jamfest2004 attracted more than 90 musicians and was held over seven weeks in October and November. The inaugural fest was in memory of late singer and guitarist Jairus Anthony, who played in pubs for over two decades and succumbed to pancreatic cancer in July 2004.

Edmund Anthony, music director of the event and brother of Jairus, said: "On the last night of Jamfest2004, an informal Jamfest fund was set up and RM13,720 was disbursed to four deserving charities."

As with all Backyard events, there will be no reservations, no cover charge, no tickets, and of course, no free loaders.

For more info on Jamfest2005, please check the website http://www.backyardpub.com.

Backyard Pub and Grill, located at 28, Jln Sri Hartamas,Taman Sri Hartamas, KL, is a friendly, unpretentious, neighbourhood pub for live music and live sports events.

There is live music Wednesday to Saturday, two English pool tables, a big screen and four TVs for live English Premier League matches. The kitchen serves great Western and local dishes and caters to special functions. For more, call 03-6201 0318. - ubuyusell@nstp.com.my

Links: News release
© News Straits Times Press Bhd

By DHARSHANA SIVAPATHAM


THREE guitarists turned Backyard Pub in Sri Hartamas into a veritable music smorgasbord recently and it seems the whole of Kuala Lumpur knew they were playing as I initially couldn't even get my finger through the door.

The event was the brainchild of Edmund Anthony, the pub's music director, after eight months of coercing, coaxing and cajoling the three musicians - Simon ]ustin Leo, Albert Sirimal and Fasy (Ahmed Faseeh).

With veteran Simon, music is all about originality. It seems he held his first guitar when he was only six. He urged the youngblood musicians to stop emulating the contemporary "masterpieces" and "put some real soul into their compositions".

Albert claimed to be nervous before getting onto the small stage, adding that the feeling gave each show that extra oomph.

His idol is Simon, and it's "a dream come true to share a stage" with him. As for his start with the guitar, Albert said the first person he saw with one and who inspired him to play was a 10- year-old Simon playing his kapuk guitar to an awe-struck audience.

Fasy, the newest of the three at the pub that night, is a partner at Digital Tones and has helped produce numerous albums, including Sangkeertanam, a Hindu devotional album.

For those who have become numb and complacent with the uninventive music of today, that night would have been and eye-opener as it offered three original musicians. - nsunt@nstp.com.my

Links: Photos | News release
© News Straits Times Press Bhd

NEIGHBOURHOOD BACKYARD PUB
September 11, 2005, New Sunday Times

By Ben Suppiah. Ben's Bar Meter: 3/5

BACKYARD is a quaint little outlet unassumingly nestled in Sri Hartamas.

Round wooden tables with matching benches greet you as you amble up to the double outlet, offering the impression of a place frequented by the older generation.

Step inside and the wall of sound that greets you suggests something else.

A make-shift stage towards the back of the outlet supports the live entertainment which varies. The music is mainly current hits, old school diehard tunes as well as time-tested rock songs.

In between sets, non-stop tunes fill up the eardrums.

Weekends see the place filled with all sorts of characters, from those in their 50s to the younger set.

Booze and music seems to be the core here with dancing limited to convulsing in a personal space if you are lucky enough to secure one.

With Kilkenny's, Tiger & Guinness on tap, not to mention the range of single malt whiskies that is proudly displayed on the counter behind the bar next to the wines and bottled foreign beers, which carry prices directly converted from some European currency, Backyard Pub is sure to be a blast.

The waiters are no giggly females but trusty (not rusty) middle-aged men.

The sporting tendencies of the regulars are reflected by the "Cantona" wall of fame and the pool tables packed at the back.

My friends and I were quite fascinated with the collection of coasters tacked up on the wall but noticed the scores of women who seemed to have arrived in groups and were intent on partying.

They stole the limelight every time the band stopped to take a breather.

The crowd was very much in tune with the beat of the place and seemed content to let themselves loose with the flow of the night.

A neighbourhood pub sure, but with a little touch of flavour.

© News Straits Times Press Bhd

ROCK PARTY IN BACKYARD
September 7, 2005, New Straits Times

GUITARS TO THE FORE
September 5, 2005, New Straits Times

By Errol de Cruz.


When these three artistes take centre stage on Wednesday, it will be the Malaysian version of a G3 summit.

GUITAR MUSIC ENTHUSIASTS are in for a treat, this Wednesday, when three top axemen - and their friends - take centre stage at the Backyard Pub and Grill, located at Taman Sri Hartamas, KL.

The three - local veterans Simon Justin Leo and Albert Sirimal, and Maldivian Ahmed Faseeh - are scheduled to do individual sets to showcase their respective talents before coming together for a finale.

Simon Justin Leo once composed, sang and played lead guitar for top local band Carefree. When the band split up a few years and albums later, Simon played occasionally with different bands, but made his mark as a much-sought-after player and composer in the advertising jingles industry.

Albert Sirimal is among the most respected musicians in the business. Starting off as a soloist in the late 80s.

Albert soon picked up influences from several pioneer guitarists before creating his distinctive sound and style.

A veritable one-man show, he was a runner-up in the Carlsberg Top Of The Pubs Competition in 1989.

Albert's distinctive guitar playing saw him exploring beyond Malaysian shores and performing gigs in Thailand, Singapore, Germany and Britain.

As a highly-respected sessionist, he has been called to play with such local stars as Ning Baizura, Sheila Majid, Ferhad, Prema Lucas, Maya Karin, Zainal Abidin, Jamal Abdillah, M. Nasir and Too Phat.

Fasy is a Maldivian guitar-player who works as an engineer and producer at a recording studio, and carved quite a niche on the club scene performing with Viji, Tony 'Tom Jones' Warren, Paul Ponnudorai, Bala, Amir Yusoff, Rafique Rashid and Purple Haze.

The three will be backed by the vocals of veteran singer Vijay David and percussionist Bada.

"This performance will be unrehearsed," said Backyard publican Jerry Chong. "It will be a jam to remember."

"We will pay homage to some of the great guitar legends of our time covering every genre, including rock, blues, jazz and pop."

Chong said to expect sparkling solos, fun and camaraderie on stage, and more from other artistes who are expected to turn up. The show will kick-off at 9.30pm. There will be no entrance fee or cover charge.

Backyard Pub and Grill is a friendly, unpretentious, neighbourhood pub for live music and sports telecasts located at 28, Jln Sri Hartamas 8, Taman Sri Hartamas, Kuala Lumpur.

It offers live music, Wednesday to Saturday, two English pool tables, a big screen and four TVs for live English Premier League matches. The kitchen serves up great Western and local dishes and also caters for special functions.

Visit www.backyardpub.com or call 03-6201-0318.

Email: ubuyusell@nstp.com.my

© News Straits Times Press Bhd

TWO HATS AND A ROCKING NIGHT
August 26, 2005, The Star (Metro/Nightlife)

Story and photos by SASHI AMBI

THERE was a time in the world when all men wore hats. It was the norm and any man without one was considered incomplete.

This was the on-stage scene at The Backyard Pub recently when the watering hole got local fun musicians Two Hats Gang to pay tribute to the King of Rock n’ Roll, Elvis Presley.

Held in memory of the King's death, the event received a fair turnout but showcased some of the best Elvis tunes ever performed. What was missing, however, was the on-stage presence of the impersonations of the star himself.

However, pub owner Jerry Chong was quick to note that the night was for the celebration of Elvis Presley’s music and not his stage antics. "We like to do things differently from time to time here and tonight is such a night," Chong said.

"We mix things up so that regulars and avid music listeners are always kept on their toes." Two Hats Gang, comprising of actor and comedy great Alan Pereira on keyboards, famed country band Os Pombos founding member Gerry Singho on electric guitar and multi-talented Errol De Cruz on folk and country guitar, went through two steady sets of Elvis Presley tunes.

The band also managed other evergreen numbers covered by Elvis at one point or the other.

The band started out its first set with fast paced hits like Jailhouse Rock, Hound Dog and All Shook Up, which got the crowd really warmed up.

But it was not until the midst of the second set with tunes like Your Cheating Heart and Blues Suede Shoes that listeners began moving to the dance floor.

Two Hats Gang, who said they hated practicing but loved jamming, did not leave out Elvis' great ballads as they polished through with Are You Lonesome Tonight?, It's Now or Never and Surrender.

Sadly, the personal favourite Heartbreak Hotel was not covered.

"What we do full time doesn’t give us enough time to practice but we've been doing this for a long time and so we can just get up there, call the key and the music goes," said de Cruz.

"As you just saw, we work very hard on stage."

He added that the band kept things simple, impromptu and all was done in absolute fun.

A testament of this camaraderie was seen at the round-up of the night as band members discussed other Elvis covers that could have been performed for the night.

The band will be performing again at the Petaling Jaya Club on the Eve of National Day.

Links: Photos | Profile |

© The Star Publications Bhd

By SHAREN KAUR.


There may not be a big market for English music by local artistes but it's growing fast, and this is very encouraging - Fasy

MALDIVIAN guitarist Fasy is not a new face in the local music scene. In fact, this guy who has been living in Malaysia since 1996 has just launched his third album featuring his guitar talents, and for the first time, his vocal ability and his new trio, Playin December.

Entitled Fasy: A Compilation, the album comprises 13 tracks and some of the compositions stretch back to the early 90s.

Fasy (real name, Ahmed Faseeh) hails from a musically-inclined family in the Maldives. He started playing the guiter at 12, when his father gave him a white steel-stringed acoustic, and has not stopped playing since!

When he first came to Malaysia, it wasn't to pursue a career in music, but to earn a degree in information technology which he did in 2000, and he now uses his IT knowledge to go digital with his music.

A week after he had arrived here, Fasy met local 60s musician Viji, with whom he still shares the stage regularly, but along the way has also jammed with club circuit stars Tony Warren, Bala, Paul Ponnudorai, Amir Yussof, Rafique Rashid and Purple Haze.

Fasy's debut album Starrs, was launched in the Maldives in 2000, an album of six instrumentals, which became a hit back home. Then came the eight-track Cruising, launched in Kuala Lumpur in 2004. About 2,000 copies were printed of which about 85 per cent have been sold.

This third one, incidentally, includes eight songs from the second outing, all re-mastered, plus five new tracks. One of the bonus tracks - Rising - was composed and performed in the early 90s and has now been re-recorded with new bandmates Rifu on guitar and vocals and Ayya on bass.

If you have listened to his first two albums, the songs Steer Me Home and Ain't Enough will ring a bell. They are both featured on his latest album but showcasing a different side of his music.

"Malaysia has a fine balance of everything. I see a lot of talent here and more people creating original music," Fasy commented. "There may not be a big market for English music by local artistes but it's growing fast, and this is very encouraging."

Fasy: A Compilation was recently launched at popular Taman Sri Hartamas nightspot, the Backyard Pub and Grill.


© News Straits Times Press Bhd

PLAYING FROM THE HEART
August 07, 2005, New Sunday Times

By ARNI ABDUL RAZAK.


Maldivian virtuoso Fasy recently played to a full house at the launch of his third album. ARNI ABDUL RAZAK has the goods.

THE guy doesn't even know how to read music notes, but he plays fantastic guitar and writes songs. Meet Ahmed Faseeh, better known as Fasy. "It's all about feelings, really ...and playing from the heart. I'm on another plane together when I'm with my guitar," says the friendly 31-year-old who enjoys performing in front of an appreciative crowd.

Fasy, who hails from Maldives, has been playing the guitar since he was 12, but has never really had a formal education in music. He came to Malaysia in 1996 to study information technology (IT), got his degree and has even set up his own production studio.

Among the albums that he has helped produced included those by Sasi The Don and first Malaysian Tamil rappers Boomerangx.

And right now, Fasy is busy promoting his third and latest album, Fasy: The Compilation which is a collection of his favourite works over the years. The album was launched at the Backyard Pub and Grill in Sri Hartamas, Kuala Lumpur just last month.

It comprises 13 tracks including eight songs from his earlier album Cruising (which were completely re-mastered) and five bonus tracks.

"These are songs that I've written and produced since 1992. They are a reflection of my work and my journey in life. You can also see a transition in my music through the songs."

For him, the most memorable song in the album is Starrs, a track that was written during the most important period in his life. It was the time when he fell in love with his wife.

"It was like the beginning of my life. I felt that someone has just woken me up to embrace the world. It's a nice feeling," he says.

Other notable tunes to check out from the new album are Rising, which was composed and first performed by Fasy with his former band The Final Revelation in the early 90s in Maldives and Regeneration.

The new version of Rising on the album has been re-recorded with Fasy's new three-piece band, Playin December.

Playin December (members of the group were born in December) comprises Rifu on guitar and vocals, Ibbe on drums and Ayya on bass. The group was formed last year.

"With the band, I've jammed at numerous pubs and clubs around the city. We play all kinds of songs from blues to rock, hard rock, heavy metal, rock and roll and even funk. It's been great," says Fasy, who is inspired by rockers Ritchie Blackmore and Joe Satriani.

At the launch of his new album, Fasy also had the chance to show off his guitar-playing skills in an hour-long energetic performance. He even shared the stage with Amir Yussof who belted out Man And Woman, a song taken from his Some Of This Is Real album.

"If there is one thing I want to do now, is to teach. I want to teach people how to bring music from inside them ...to play with their heart and soul." - arni@nstp.com.my

For details on Fasy's latest album or upcoming shows, call 017-6607712.

© News Straits Times Press Bhd

ROUSING SHOW FROM A
SELF-SCHOOLED
GUITAR VIRTUOSO
July 30, 2005, The Star (Metro/Nightlife)

By VIVIENNE PAL. Photo by RICKY LAI.


THERE is more than meets the eye when it comes to Ahmad Faseeh. A regular bloke on the street at first glance, the 31-year-old Maldivian is, however, a commanding presence under the glare of the spotlight.

With his eyes closed and his trusty Fender Stratocaster strapped around him, Fasy forgets the crowd and goes to a faraway land where it's only him and his music every time he performs.

"I don't feel the stage; I'm lost in my own music. I feel it, I become one with it," he said.

The soft-spoken guitar virtuoso was at the Backyard Pub & Grill recently for his performance and the launch of his latest album Fasy: A Compilation.

The crowd, comprising regulars or fans of Fasy had shown up much earlier to get the best seats.

Their efforts were not in vain. That evening, Fasy had delivered a mesmerising performance, opening the show with slow, riveting numbers, before switching to more upbeat rock tunes laced with funk and blues.

By the fourth song, Fasy had taken the music, and the crowd, up a notch, displaying his vocal prowess for the first time in Rising, and capping the entire performance with a rousing finale with Regenerations.

Credit must also be given to his band Playin December, for without the accompaniment of its members, Fasy's crunching lead would have sounded hollow.

Formed in July 2004, Playin December comprises fellow Maldivians Ibbe on drums, Ayya on bass guitar and Rifu on vocals.

The original members of the band were born in December, hence its unique name.

To say Fasy is a good guitarist is an understatement. He displayed brilliant fretwork and flawless play at chord progression, swooping from grinding lows to squealing highs effortlessly.

Each piece was a gripping cliffhanger of what was to come.

Surprisingly enough, Fasy, who also plays the drums, bass and keyboard, has no formal training in music.

"I play by ear. The way I learnt music is through bits and pieces from here and there. Music is alive and comes from deep inside.

"Music doesn't come in the form of notes for me, but in the form of feelings," said Fasy, who picked up tips and learnt techniques by experimenting, and from various musicians.

It's hard to put a finger on Fasy's 'real sound'. He plays a variety of music genres from blues to rock'n'roll, funk and heavy metal.

Although he considers Ritchie Blackmore and Joe Satriani as some of his greatest inspirations, it is apparent that family background counts, too.

Fasy's father, Ali Maniku also had a band in his younger days and was instrumental in presenting Fasy with his first guitar at the age of 12.

Being foreigner has not stopped Fasy from making his mark in the Malaysian music circle.

To date, he has performed with many renowned local musicians including Paul Ponnudorai, Amir Yussof, Rafique Rashid and Purple Haze.

He has also performed in various pubs and clubs including the Backyard Pub, Titus Blues Avenue, Donnington's, Man's Cafe, Colours and X'tacy.

Although Fasy already has a following, the success of Fasy: A Compilation may well be the clincher for him.

"Compilation marks my first vocal attempt. It has music that I wrote from the 1990s; it shows the transition in my music.

"It's a more mature album compared to Cruising, my previous one," he said, revealing that all the tunes in Compilation captured his life in different phases.

"All the songs mean a lot to me, although Starrs is the most poignant - it captured an important period in my life; it represented the beginning of my life, when someone woke me up," he disclosed.

Fasy still has many dreams to achieve, among which is to produce more albums and hold workshops to teach musicians to make music that comes from within.

"I want to teach people how to make music an extension of themselves," he quipped.

Fasy: A Compilation will soon be available in local music stores nationwide. For enquiries, call 017-6607 712 (Barbar).

Links: July 22nd Photos | Fasy's profile |

© The Star Publications Bhd

WEEKEND PARTY VENUES
July 22, 2005, The Star (Metro/Nightlife)

BACKYARD JOY WITH THE PLATTERS
July 10, 2005, New Sunday Times

By DHARSHANA SIVAPATHAM.


We all have sung those Platters' hits at karaoke outlets - you know, Smoke Gets In Your Eyes, Only You, The Great Pretender, Harbour Lights - but I managed to have a one-on-one with an original Platter member at the Backyard Pub & Grill in Sri Hartamas, last Thursday night.

Firstly, I didn't have to ask Donne Radford (the lead singer) a thing because he couldn't stop talking, and he hadn't even had a drink yet. I couldn't stop him regaling me with the backstage goings-on of the band.

Apparently he is the third-generation of The Platters. The Platters were actually a corporation, run, produced and managed almost completely by Buck Ram (the guy who came up with all the tunes). As time went on, members changed, rights got fought over, and finally, everyone ended up getting a piece of the cake. So Donne is one of the remaining original members that were actually hired by Buck Ram to sing with The Platters. With Charlotte Eckstein, Rich M Jimmerso, and Mike Davis (also an original member), collectively they're called The Sounds of The Platters.

The patrons at Backyard were quite happy when Bala and Vijay (regular musicians at the pub) got pulled on stage to show off their talent in Mustang Sally and Charlotte doo-wopped with them. Next thing you know, all The Platters were up and what a show it was.

I admit I have never heard this band sing live so...I have to tell you their voices were jaw-dropping-ly amazing, even in their, errr, 'appy state. Go Platters!

- by Dharshana Sivapatham

Links: Photos | News release
© News Straits Times Press Bhd

NO ORDINARY MUSIC MAN
Jun 12, 2005, New Sunday Times

By JESSICA LIM. Pic by: Rosli Mat Tahir.


WHETHER he's singing on stage, telling you about how he busted his index finger trying to get a guitar cable fixed, or spinning a yarn about his schooldays in an all-boys boarding school in London, Adam Farouk's boundless energy reminds one of the exploding popcorn kernels in a covered pot.

The good-looking chap carved a name for himself in Malaysia last April as a member of New York-based acappella group The Breakers during their successful Equinox Tour.

The singer-guitarist-pianist was also nominated for Best Musical Direction at the 2004 Boh Cameronian Arts Awards for his work on I Have Dreamed: An Evening With Sean Ghazi.

Taking a break from a solo guitar gig at the Backyard Pub in Sri Hartamas last week, Penang-born Adam took time to reveal how he came to discover his real buzz - writing music.

The Chinese-Malay youth was studying in Cornell University at that time and had never written a song.

He sat musing with his room mate about their friends who seemed to be churning out song after song.

"They'd come up to us and say, 'hey,man, I just wrote this song, about politics, or that song about urban living', and I was like, 'crap, man! I want that'," said Adam.

"That's when the two of us decided to write the perfect song," he said, his hands emphasising the point.

Three months and no songs later, a discouraged Adam was hanging out with a group of six friends.

After some time, their conversation started to centre on love and issues like 'so what is love?' and 'have you ever really been in love?'

It was only a matter of time before the group turned their attention to an uncharacteristically quiet Adam with a question - "So Adam, tell us about your first time?"

"I was 18 and had never been in love. Hey man, I was from an all-boys boarding school, love was out of the cards for me, save for an extreme lifestyle change, you know what I mean? "And then they looked at me with this look (gives a very shocked expression) for like, 10 seconds.

"Man, I got offended. I said, 'Hey look, don't feel sorry for me. Don't patronise me, geez'," he exclaimed.

Adam left that discussion and went to a quiet spot where he started to pluck out the introspective tunes like Canadian singer-songwriter Gordon Lightfoot's If You Could Read My Mind.

After one and a half hours of storming it out on his guitar, Adam Farouk was ready to present his first song to the world.

He called it Place to Be, a song about lost love and how one finds peace with it. After that, he says, songs just started to "flow" from him.

Nine years, 50 songs and innumerable gigs later, Adam says he can't remember not being immersed in music.

Although he had always been exposed to classical music and jazz lessons, it was during an Interlochen Arts Camp (an eight-week international arts training camp in Michigan held each summer) that he decided to make his music career, and he has not looked back since.

Perhaps, it's his life motto that makes him such a successful music personality.

"That's what it's all about - fun and good." - nstunt@nst.com.my

Keen on more gigs? Visit www.backyardpub.com

Links: June 1st Photos | Adam Farouk's profile | The Breakers website |

© News Straits Times Press Bhd

People are funny and there's nothing like a hypnotism show to reveal how funny we all are.

So, if you're in the mood to have a few good, de-stressing laughs, do head for the Backyard Pub and Grill for an evening with hypnotist Joe Nathan Lourdes (top).

Journalist-turned-hypnotist Joe is a Malaysian trained in the United States by two award-winning hypnotists - Jerry Valley, who is billed as "America's Most Captivating Hypnotist", and stage hypnotist Don Mottin.

Like his mentors, Joe believes in the power of hypnotism for self-

improvement, and his shows have a high respect for guests.

"The human mind is amazing and with hypnosis we can experience some things that we could never have imagined possible," Joe said. "There are also some simple things I've learnt that can help us make profound changes in our lives," said Joe.

Hypnotism is currently used for quitting smoking, weight loss, stress and pain relief, academic and sporting excellence, helping children with attention deficit disorders.

Joe was with the Singapore Press Holdings for 15 years, working his way up from reporter to editor, before discovering hypnotism after attending a show of visiting hypnotist Calvin Banyan.

He then studied in the US and is now a certified hypnotherapist and stage hypnotist on good standing with the US National Guild of Hypnotists.

He also has certifications as a Five-Path and Seven-Path hypnotherapist from the Banyan Hypnosis Center.

Joe's show kicks off at nine, tonight. The Backyard Pub is located at 28 Jln Sri Hartamas 8, Tmn Sri Hartamas, Kuala Lumpur. No cover or entrance fee.

Link: Hypnosisworks

© News Straits Times Press Bhd

HEADING FOR THE BACKYARD BLITZ
Apr 27, 2005, The Malay Mail

By Errol de Cruz. Click to enlarge

The Backyard Pub in Sri Hartamas, KL, is featuring some really hot, across-the-board acts over the coming week, and the blitz begins tonight.

For good old-fashioned, tried, tested and true-blue evergreen songs, not many local artistes come close to the entertaining Alfred Ho, a perennial favourite in the local circuit.

This blind crooning guitarist has never let his lack of sight hold him back, plying the pub, club and corporate circuit, and also cutting CDs of golden oldies and selling them at his shows.

Alfred who also penned a country titled Train To Tennessee, many years ago, does his stuff tonight, and you can bet that his repertoire, will also include the hits of Cliff Richard, Elvis Presley, Fats Domino, Chuck Berry, Engelbert Humperdinck, Tom Jones, Paul Anka and the like.

Rock duo Viji and Faseeh take centre stage, tomorrow night, while a Scottish-Malaysian songwriter named Jamie Woon, hits you on Friday.

Playing sets that include alternative rock and soul, Jamie has received consistently excellent reception from audiences on the acoustic and cabaret circuits of London, and is in Malaysia to promote his five-track EP, How Long.

Jamie is the fourth generation of a line of professional musicians that includes Hugh and Ted McKenna from the Sensational Alex Harvey Band. His mother, Mae McKenna, is a folk/celtic artist and session singer.

Jamie comes on at 9pm, followed by SWV, the Carlsberg CentreStage band champions in 2003.

On Saturday, keyboardist Amizan joins forces with Colin Jansen and Jason Noah of Jericho, promising to bring the house down with their guitar-driven grooving!

On May 4, the Backyard takes off on a tangent, never experienced before, when hypnotherapist Joe Nathan Lourdes claims his share of the spotlight. Joe has trained with the renowned American hypnotists Jerry Valley, Calvin Banyan, Don Mottin and George Bien, and when he hits the Backyard, next week, he'll share with you the magic of the human mind.

Publican Jerry Chong guarantees that he will bust myths about hypnosis, and help you experience the most relaxing time you’ll ever have.

Joe will also show you how you can change your life by changing your mind, and in this aspect, we hear that some regulars are due to be dragged onstage to have their quirks and kinks sorted out, once and for all.

You want to be an overnight pool champion? Talk to Joe Nathan Lourdes.

Backyard Pub & Grill is a friendly, unpretentious, neighbourhood pub for live music and live sports events located at No.28, Jalan Sri Hartamas 8, Taman Sri Hartamas, Kuala Lumpur. You can view the latest goings-on on its website backyardpub.com or call 03-6201-0318.

Link: Alfred Ho at Backyard

© News Straits Times Press Bhd

PETER DICKSON'S MUSICAL JOURNEY
Apr 04, 2005, Sun

The Australia-based flamenco guitarist thrilled fans with his brand of music at a recent showcase.
Story by PETER YAP. Pic by ZULKIFLI ERSAL.


Peter Dickson was busy conducting sound checks at the Backyard Pub & Grill in Sri Hartamas, Kuala Lumpur two weeks ago when he received a call requesting for an interview. He immediately obliged and set about talking about his love for music. The Australia-based flamenco guitarist was in town for a one-night only performance on March 23 with local jazz virtuoso Farid Ali (better known as Mr Gambus) and his band. The music that night was a thrilling fusion of East meets West.

But to those who missed his performance, take heart ­ Dickson said he hoped to return to Malaysia real soon to perform more great music for his fans here. "Who knows I might just record a song or two with Farid," the 42-year old musician said.

The gifted guitarist is currently on tour promoting his solo album, Alone with You released in 2003. Dickson's compositions reflect the years of immersion in various styles including Latin, Spanish, India and French gypsy with noted jazz inflections.

Life has certainly been busy for Dickson, who travels with his Japanese wife, Hideko Toyokawa, a percussionist. "We met in Japan a few years ago," he explained. "We don't have plans to have children just yet. We have been too busy touring." Dickson will perfor m in Japan next month. He will also be performing a concert or two in India sometime in August. After that he hopes to find time to work on his next album, which will focus on his Asian roots.

"Asia is in my heart and soul," he said. "I love everything Asian!"

Born in Bangalore, India, of English parents, Dickson started his professional music career at the age of 13 and has since travelled and performed in Europe, India, Japan, Singapore, Malaysia and Australia.

He has been described as "Australia's fastest guitarist" with his impeccable technique and emotion, including complex lines with artistic integrity and precision, and surprising every now and then with percussive drumming on the guitar body.

Dickson first delved into the Spanish style when, at the age of 21, he chanced upon a recording of maestro flamenco guitarist Paco De Lucia in London.

Inspired by the music, he honed his skills at the acoustic guitar for up to five hours a day.

His first claim to fame was a hit record entitled Flamenco Falsetas with partner Juan Martinez in 1996, which sold over 60,000 copies in Australia. The success of the album introduced Dickson to legendary Australian 'finger stylist' Tommy Emmanuel, with whom he did three 'live' appearances and also supported on national tours.

In August 1999, Dickson launched a solo career with the release of his first self-produced album titled EastWest. He played all the instruments on this recording, blending the Spanish guitar with Indian percussion.

He went on to cut Talking to God with leading carnatic musicians in South India. In 2001, Dickson performed a concert in India with an Indian fusion band, which resulted in the album, Live in India. ­ Peter Yap

Links: March 23rd Photos | Peter Dickson's website | Farid Ali's website |

© Sun Media Corp Sdn Bhd

WHEN MR GAMBUS MET MR DICKSON
Mar 27, 2005, New Sunday Times

Story and pictures by JESSICA LIM.

It was only two minutes into his performance, but Australian-based flamenco guitarist Peter Dickson's forehead was already glazed with sweat.

His lighting-fast fingers were a blur of motion and his face a scrunched-up ball of intensity as he played at The Backyard Pub in Taman Sri Hartamas on Wednesday.

India-born Dickson teamed up with local jazz virtuoso Farid Ali aka Mr Gambus and his band for a night of highly-skilled East-meets-West fusion music.

Dickson, who is of English parentage, is currently on tour promoting his solo album "Alone With You" , a Latin/funk-styled showcase of Dickson's impressive technical skill. From the way Dickson and Farid got it together that night, one would think the duo had been performing together for years.

Not so, however. The first time the two guitarists met was for an hour-long rehearsal that day.

"Ah, but we had no problem playing together," said Dickson.

"Farid is a beautiful man, immensely talented. He can read me, you know what I mean?

"We've got a mutual vibe going on."

Joining the duo on stage for different sets were Dickson's wife Hideko Toyokawa, who played the bongos, and Farid's band, aptly called The Farid Band.

The members are David 'Awa' Yee on bass, Eric Li on keys and drummer John Thomas.

Dickson's third number, Six4Chick, was complemented by a lively flamenco dance by Havana Estudio teacher, performer and choreographer, Kayla.

Dickon took the stage during the first set, playing five compositions from Alone With You, which he described as "a very personal album." Pilots of Pain, Dickson's only slow solo number that night, was the guitarist's tribute to the victims of the Sept 11 disaster.

He told of how he was performing in Sydney at the moment the plan crashed into the World Trade Centre.

"Watching the 9-11 disaster was such a jolt. It made me realise how vulnerable we all can be, and how we have to treasure the people and things precious to us," he said. One could almost see the tears in his eyes as he performed the piece.

Dickson's flamenco compositions reflect varied styles of playing including jazz, Indian, Latin, Spanish and French gypsy. Flamenco, the dance style of the Andalusian Gypsies, is characterised by forceful, often improvised rhythms.

The Farid Band caused a quite a stir when they appeared, especially with the introduction of Farid's gambus, or Malay lute.

There is a deep love between Farid and the 12-stringed instrument, which he uses to create a new sound he calls "jazz gambus".

The gambus, said to be invented 3,000 years ago, is a pear-shaped stringed instrument which, when plucked, sounds like a harpischord or mandolin.

Farid brought the gambus onto the world stage when he played it in the Jarasum Jazz Festival in Korea and the Pori International Jazz Festival in Finland last year.

"If you do a little of research on the Internet about the gambus, you'll find that it is getting extinct.

"Well, let's just see what we can do about that," said Farid before launching into Zapin Blues, a composition from his album Turning Point.

It is striking to note that both men, after decades of pursuing musical knowledge in Western classical jazz, now decide that their personal journey as musicians will take them back to their Asian roots.

For Farid, his path as a musician leads him to his gambus while for Dickson, it lies in India where he grew up.

"Asia is in my heart and soul. I love everything Asian," said Dickson, with a cheeky sidelong glance at his laughing Japanese wife. -- nstunt@nst.com.my

Links: March 23rd Photos | Peter Dickson's website | Farid Ali's website |

© News Straits Times Press Bhd

MR FLAMENCO MEETS MR GAMBUS
AT BACKYARD TONIGHT
Mar 23, 2005, The Malay Mail

By Errol de Cruz.

The Backyard Pub and Grill will showcase a special music presentation by flamenco guitarist Peter Dickson and jazz virtuoso Farid 'Mr Gambus' Ali tonight at 9.30pm.

The night promises to be an exciting showcase of magnificent fretboard skills by two experienced craftmasters.

It will feature solo performances by Peter and Farid, backed by an outfit that boasts musicians like David 'Awa' Yee on bass, John Thomas on drums and Eric Li on keyboards.

There will be no cover charge or entrance fee; likewise no reservations.

Dickson is an accomplished flamenco and acoustic jazz guitarist with 10 albums to his credit.

Born in Bangalore, India, to English parents, ahe started his music career at 13 and has since travelled and performed in Europe, India, Japan and Australia. He has been described as 'Australia's fastest guitarist' with impeccable technique and emotion, executing complex lines with artistic integrity and precision, and surprising every now and then with percussive drumming on the guitar body.

Dickson is currently on tour promoting his solo album Alone with You which reflects years of immersion in varied styles including Latin, Spanish, Indian and French gypsy music.

His first claim to fame was a hit record entitled Flamenco Falsetas with Juan Martinez in 1996 which sold more than 60,000 copies in Australia.

The success of the album introduced Dickson to legendary Australian finger stylist Tommy Emmanuel, with whom he did three live appearances.

Dickson is currently carving a solo career blending the best of Latin, Spanich, Indian and Frency gypsy styles.

Farid Ali is a well-known jazz guitarist in the region who has recently taken to the Malay lute or gambus as his instrument of choice.

He has participated in more than 40 jazz festivals around the world. For the past 15 years, he has performed and recorded with such stars as Ernie Watts, Eric Marienthal, Bobby McFerrin, Steve Thornton, Jeremy Monteiro, Lee Jeung Sik and Randy Bernsen.

He is currently toying with the idea of pursuing a doctorate on the 3,000-year-old gambus.

Backyard Pub & Grill is located at 28, Jalan Sri Hartamas 8, Taman Sri Hartamas, Kuala Lumpur.

For more, visit www.backyardpub.com or call 03-62010318.

Links: Peter Dickson | Profile |

© News Straits Times Press Bhd

NAKED AND UNDONE
Feb 24, 2005, The Malay Mail

By Errol de Cruz. Click to enlarge

Daddy’s (not so) little girl grows up and bares her soul

LOOK at Denise Freeman’s debut album, and you’ll have flashbacks of Christine Keeler at the height of the Profumo scandal in the ’70s.

She sits on a chair on the cover and the inside showcases a few more daring poses. Then you remember that this is the young girl who won the Sri Sathya Sai World Peace Festival song contest in the ’90s.

That young girl, however, has come a long way, and the career path she’s taken includes stints as a copywriter, chef, English teacher, resettlement officer, culture workshop coordinator, and, last but not least, poet.

It wasn’t an easy road by any measure. In her teens, she, like her mother and sisters, occasionally fell victim to her father’s temper, and she suffered silently, first watching her parents break-up and, years later, hearing the news of her dad’s death from a heart attack – in another woman’s home.

The result? She still loves the man and admits that he still is her greatest inspiration.

Denise Freeman, now 35, is brutally frank about her life, and frankly had me wondering just how much could go into print. Thankfully, there were no holds barred.

"That’s the only way I can come to terms with it," she said, sipping on a coke at the National Press Club late last week, “and I’ve expressed it all in my writing."

Denise’s father, Ernie Freeman, was a celebrity in his own right. A dredgemaster by profession (the youngest in his time), he was also a singer, musician, radio playwright, palmist, story-teller and poetic philosopher. Quite a package.

When the tin-mining industry slumped, he left Perak and moved to Petaling Jaya where he opened two country music bars – Cattlemen’s Inn (with the late Vincent Lloyd) and his own Gold Canyon in 1987, after that partnership broke up – and soon earned the title, Father of Country and Western Music.

The bars closed down after a while, and Ernie passed away soon after his 53rd birthday in 1992, but by then, Denise Ann, 22, had already her mark.

She had begun singing at the age of five, and at seven she was confidently singing country hits with Ernie on guitar, her mother playing the organ and her sisters singing and playing acoustic guitars, as well, entertaining all and sundry, in swanky four-part harmony.

Denise started writing poetry at 13 and by 14, she was playing the guitar and composing songs. To date, she has written more than 200 poems some of which she has published, entitled A Lyrical Life.

At 16, she entered the Sri Sathya Sai World Peace Festival song contest and won first prize for best rendition and best composition, the prize taking her to Perth, Australia.

Back from that holiday, she also jammed with several bands at her father’s Gold Canyon.

When she turned 20, Denise hit the stage again, singing to a large audience at the Strange Days concert, organised by Peter Brown and Markiza Hassan. Held at the British Council, the proceeds of the tickets went to the Malayan Nature Society.

Not long after, Markiza also featured Denise’s song, Up On A Hill on her album, Open Secret.

On the personal side, however, life was just the opposite.

Unwittingly, she fell in love with an older (and married) man, but the sizzle fizzled when her mom, Yvonne, found out and told her they’d “have frogs for kids because he’s so ugly".

"I realised that I was looking for a father figure, and worse, I was becoming just like my father!" she admitted. "Like all kids, I had picked up his dominant traits." "So, to find out why I was like that, I had to find out why he was like that," she added.

On the therapy side, there was some counselling and tai-chi, but what got all the pent-up emotions out was a 10-page letter she wrote to her dad – years after he had passed on.

"I read it over and over again, and it took four long years before I could read it without crying." Doing some research into Ernie’s id, she learnt much about him. He had married a pregnant Yvonne when he was 18, she a year younger.

"I’m sure he felt robbed of his youth," Denise said, "and cheated in life, generally."

"Understanding all that made it quite simple," she offered. "After all, he was just a man."

"I still feel his presence in my life – and it’s nothing but love."

In 1999, Denise left for Finland and then Romania, where she ended up as a guest chef at the Bucharest Hilton’s Malaysian Food Fair.

"I had the hotel’s GM over for a meal, and he soon called with the offer to manage the hotel’s two-week Malaysian food fest," she laughed. To think that she only learnt to cook out of necessity, craving for the traditional delicacies of her homeland. “"I missed my nasi lemak and it was too expensive to eat out."

Besides that stint, Denise also worked as a copywriter at an international media agency, wrote a book of poems and managed a host of projects before deciding to come home and record the album that was in the making all her life. Listening to the lyrics on Naked And Undone is like reading her autobiography.

"I decided that 17 years of song-writing was too incredible to contain," she explained.

Then she lost a friend in a train accident and it cemented the decision.

"If something happened to me, there would be no record of anything I’d been through."

Hence, Naked And Undone.

"I love tangibility," she offered. “This has nothing to do with becoming rich or famous, although I would like to recoup what I’ve invested in the album,"Denise said. "I hope the people who listen to it will get a sense of me and what I’m like."

The ‘naked’ is the physical, and the ‘undone’ the emotional side, she explains.

The album features eight of her best songs, backed by local artistes Julian Mokhtar, Jaime Wilson, Jimmie Loh, Popshuvit’s J.D. Wong and Bada, and the repertoire ranges from funky folk and blues to soul and country and western.

"Putting this album together was an incredible journey," Denise said.

"What makes it so special is that I got to work with some exciting people and I had input from people I grew up with, including Rafique Rashid, Peter and Markiza Hassan, Antares and Amir Yusoff."

The red spot on the album cover was originally designed as James Bond concept. The shooter aims, his victim in clear view. The victim is vulnerable, an open target.

The photograph of Denise and the red circle portray a person being caught; but the idea is not about her being physically naked so much as being naked or undone emotionally.

"The title implies that the singer is an open diary,” she said. The circle also symbolises life being a full circle of comings and goings, of the seven main chakras and about censorship.

"The result is a culmination of my past and present; a reflection of whom I am – an open book."

"And I’m sure my Daddy will be proud of me."

One of Denise’s ambitions is to have her father’s works published, and this list includes children’s stories, poems, plays and also a book on Eurasians in Malaysia.

"But, I’m not ready. I want to research his research and I think I’ll only be ready when I’m as old as he was when he wrote them."

* Denise Ann Freeman will launch Naked and Undone at Alexis Bistro, Ampang (Feb 24, March 11 and 12), La Bodega, Jln Tung Shin, KL (Feb 25), Backyard Pub & Grill(Feb 26) and Havana, Changkat Bukit Bintang ( March 10).

Links: Denise Freeman | Profile | Musiccanteen |

© News Straits Times Press Bhd

BANDS RAISE RM16,000 AT CONCERT
Jan 21, 2005, The Star (Metro)

MUSIC ON A NEEDY MISSION
Jan 08, 2005, The Star (Metro)

BACK TO TREND-SETTING '70s
Dec 31, 2004, The Malay Mail

JAMfest 2004 CLIMAXES TONIGHT
Nov 17, 2004, The Malay Mail

WIRED TO JAZZY SOUNDS
Oct 31, 2004, New Sunday Times (Showtime)

BALA TO ROCK JAMFEST2004
Oct 27, 2004, NST (Life & Times)

In memory of a favourite musician
Oct 16, 2004, The Star (Metro)

FIERY FARE AT BACKYARD
Oct 13, 2004, The Malay Mail

T0 JAIRUS WITH LOVE
Oct 03, 2004, NST (Life & Times)

Compiled by Janagi Morugan

KUALA LUMPUR: THE Backyard Pub & Grill in Sri Hartamas will hold the first-ever Jairus Anthony Musical Festival from tomorrow to Nov 17.

“This festival is in memory of long-time pub-singer Jairus and everything he stood for. It will also be a platform for local musicians to show off their talent,” said pub owner Jerry Chong at the launch of the outlet's website www.Backyardpub.com.

Chong said the pub has tentatively signed on a "who's who" of local musicians for the event including Paul Ponnudorai, Gerard Singh, Greg Lyons, Lewis Pragasam, Rafique Rashid, Julian Mokhtar, Sherman Tan, Hassan Brown, Shelley Leong, Sara Lo and Bala.

Backyard's resident artistes will also be performing including Albert Sirimal, Vijay David, Bada, Viji & Fasy, Colin Jansen, Raymond Chia, Jason Noah, Justin Wan, Edmund Anthony and Simon Justin Leo. The musicians will rotate every Wednesday for seven weeks starting tomorrow.

“We want to make this an annual affair for talented musicians in the country to play at a single venue and attract the attention of recording companies,” said Chong.

The festival will also feature young, up-and-coming songwriters who will be able to showcase their works and jam with the more experienced musicians.

He said the idea for the festival came after Jairus died of pancreatic cancer last July. A highly respected singer and guitarist, Jairus performed in pubs for over two decades but never received the recognition he deserved.

It was only after he was diagnosed with cancer that a charity album entitled “Jairus & Friends” was recorded live at the pub through the kindness of fellow musicians, fans and friends.

“I decided to organise the festival in memory of Jairus as he was a true friend and the quintessential musician. He exemplified the kind of musician we plan to showcase. He was dedicated to his craft, had a humble and warm personality and was an inspiration to other musicians and everyone he touched with his fragile voice and unique ability," said Chong.

Backyard Pub is looking for sponsors for the festival.

The Soft Touch band will present an one-hour performance as one of the two support acts (the other is Az) for main act Greg Lyons Band on Oct 13. For more information, log on to the pub's website.

© The New Straits Times Press (Malaysia) Berhad.

Fest to bring musicians together
Oct 02, 2004, The Star (Metro)

BACKYARD GOES ONLINE
Sept 24, 2004, The Malay Mail

BACK AT BACKYARD
Sept 23, 2004, New Straits Times

MUSIC FESTIVAL KICKS OFF WITH A BANG
Sept 06, 2004, The Sun

By Llew-Ann Phang

KUALA LUMPUR: The Sun Music Festival kicked off at the Backyard Pub and Grill in Sri Hartamas with a blast on Saturday night.

The atmosphere was lively as patrons grooved to the music and songs, especially by the four Akademia Fantasia (AF) artistes -- Edlin, Fitri, Zarina and Azizi.

Even the older patrons were clearly into the music, as they could be seen tapping their feet to the beat, or simply swaying with the music.

The crowd of easily a hundred mostly enjoyed resident band, Albert, Vijay David and Bada's beats of funk, blues, jazz and R&B.

The event started off at 7.30pm with food and snacks being served, while Edlin, Fitri, Zarina and Azizi entertained the crowd.

Children who were allowed in for only a certain length of time, and the adults took the opportunity to get up close to the four with some taking photographs, and others autographs.

The AF stars' performance was followed by the resident band, with Albert on vocals and guitar, Vijay David lead vocals and percussions, and Bada on bongos and congas.

Throughout the evening, Backyard proved cosy and comfortable, and able to cope with the crowd. The staff also proved capable and efficient.

theSun Music Festival is a week-long event celebrating live music in the Klang Valley at 13 venues.

The inaugural event is aimed at promoting awareness of the 60 local acts comprising over 130 musicians and to provide a platform for young musicians and entertainers to showcase their talent.

theSun Music Festival is organised by Moves & Shakes and supported by Karyawan Malaysia and Maestro Talent, with media support from Malaysia.TV, who is providing live webcasts of selected acts, and Astro. For details, log on to www.sun2surf.com and look out for webcasts which start at 9pm.

© theSun, Sun Media Corp Sdn Bhd. All rights reserved.

'JAMES TAYLOR OF MALAYSIA' DIES
July 14, 2004, New Straits Times

TELLING HIS TALES IN SONG
June 08, 2004, The Star

Press Release by backyardpub.com

Monday, Nov 14 -- Get ready to rock at the finale of Jamfest2005 on Nov 17th!

We've roped in 15 musicians for a five-hour music extravaganza you won't forget.

The five acts performing that night are singer-guitarist Gerard Anthony, progressive rock band Tempered Mental, fusion band Cosmic Funk Express, percussion duo Kenny Hogan and Faiser Florez and rockers Viji, Fasy and Friends.

The performances will round off our five-week Jamfest2005 which featured over 50 musicians.

Thanks for coming out and supporting the acts throughout the fest, some of whom graced the stage at Backyard Pub for the first time.

Music kicks off at 8pm, Thursday at Backyard Pub, 28, Jalan Sri Hartamas 8, Kuala Lumpur. No reservations, no tickets, no cover charge and no freeloaders.

KENNY HOGAN AND FAISER FLOREZare a percussion duo.

South American percussionist Faiser Florez hails from Cartagena, Colombia and has performed and toured all over Central America with both regional and international bands. He has a considerable amount of studio work to his name.

Among the artistes he has either recorded or toured with are well-known performers such as jazz flautist and Grammy Award winner Nestor Torres, Cuban violinist Alfredo de la Fe, and salsa singer Rey Ruiz.

Most recently he has been traveling the Southeast Asian region performing and recording with popular Indonesian artistes Indra Lesmana, Glenn Fredly, Bella Saphira, Sello and Rio Febrian.

Kenny Hogan is a leading drumming clinician, music educator and performing artist. The Singaporean-born Eurasian, in his late 30s began drumming when he was 16. He has since performed with many local and regional bands, most notably with his own band called KonFuzion, which was founded in early 2003, and recently renamed the Kenny Hogan Band.

Hogan has been experimenting with ethnic fusion music in recent years and will present a special percussive set with Florez.

COSMIC FUNK EXPRESS plays a fusion of funk, rock and jazz and comprises Zack Kim on lead guitar, Alda Tan on bass and Alex Ang on drums.

The band came together in mid-2004, as the brainchild of Zack and Alda. They later roped in Alex as a permanent sessionist, replacing Elliot Koon.

Korean-born Zack Kim, has been living in Malaysia for the past 14 years and is a self-taught guitarist known for his quick-finger acrobatics and quirky personality. Zack was named the best guitarist at HELP Institute's Battle of the Bands in which Cosmic Funk Express emerged champions.

Zack also been a sessionist with well-known local bands like Tempered Mental, One Buck Short, Groovetank and VE and worked alongside some of Malaysia's top producers like Greg Henderson and Nick Lee.

KL-based Alda Tan is a bass player very much in demand and played with numerous other bands. He has been featured on Shelley Leong's AIM Nominated debut album Story Teller, and also in her back-up band Jazz Odssey. He also played on Dragon Red's debut album Holocaust.

His live credentials includes Mont Kiara's Jazz Fest 2005 with Jazz Odssey, Rock The World 5 with Dragon Red, People at the Peak magazine Launch (backing Sufiah from Malaysian Idol 1), Northern Exposure at the Esplanade Singapore, Penang Island Jazz Fest 2004, ESPN X-games 2003 and many various events, gigs and dinners.

Alda is known for his eccentric stage presence which keeps most audiences entertained.

Cosmic Funk Express' most notable gigs and events were the Music Canteen and NST truck tour's Kuantan Leg, Mont Kiara's Jazz Fest 2004 and 2005, The Sun Music Festival, Art for All Carnival, World Peace Concert Berjaya Times Square, Kampong Fest, Fete De La Musique 2005and HELP's Battle Of The Bands.

Their first single Pieces was put on high rotation on X Fresh FM and had the honour of being one of the first instrumental bands to break into a mainstream radio rotation. The band is currently working on their still untitled debut album, which is set to be out by next year.

TEMPERED MENTAL comprises singer/bassist Melina, drummer Jimmy and Zack, a session guitarist.

Formed in February 2002, the band's music is described as "radio-friendly progressive rock with dark overtones".

Its unique sound is a combination of precise, rhytmic drumming, hard-edged guitar licks, and fluid liquid basslines, completed by Melina's melodic vocals.

The band's debut single, Honestly launched on April 15, 2004 at The Jazz Bar, Orange perfectly encapsulates their sound propelled by inventive guitar work, an intricate bass line and a smooth vocal delivery.

The band has four other original numbers namely, Your Ingenue, Pure, All Bad Things and Mistrial making their rounds among fans.

Tempered Mental counts among its influences The Smashing Pumpkins, Tool, The Roots, A Perfect Circle, Creed and Stone Temple Pilots, to name a few.

VIJI, FASY AND FRIENDS comprises Viji, the veteran journeyman of the local pub scene, Fasy, the Maldivian genius on the guitar and various friends that play regularly at Backyard including Edmund Anthony and Justin Wah.

Viji has performed solo for 15 years, collaborated with various others -- most successfully with Alex Peters for the inimitable Flower Power!! -- and also once owned a pub called Concept in Damansara.

With new partner Fasy on the electric guitar, Viji has re-emerged with a powerful blend of his growly voice, scintillating solos and a repertoire that harks back to the guitar-driven days of 70s.

Fasy has garnered a popular following of late as a soloist and with his band Playin December. He hails from a musical family from the Maldives and first came to Malaysia in 1996 as a student. He has two self-recorded albums on the market called Cruising and Fasy: A Compilation, which are available at the Backyard counter.

GERARD ANTHONY plays the electronic Yamaha EZ-AG2004 guitar with no strings on the fret, just sensor pick-ups.

But that doesn't prevent him from coaxing some melodious tunes from this synthesized, futuristic instrument.

Gerard has been playing professionally for seven years and started playing solo for about a two years.

He counts among his early influences his brothers, the late Jairus Anthony, and Backyard musical director, Edmund Anthony, singer Vijay David and keyboardist and vocalist Vishnu of SWV.

Gerard has a strong appreciation of country acts such as James Taylor, Michael Martin Murphy, Edwin McCain, and Lonestar and music that is "easy on the ears".

Cheers,
Jerry Chong,
Backyard Pub & Grill

PRESS RELEASE by Backyardpub.com

Backyard Pub and Grill hosts the 6th Gan Annual Classic Pool Competition to be held from 14th to 30th November, 2005.

Up for grabs are the Gan Classic Trophy, bottles of Scotch and jugs of beer courtesy of the pub.

The competition this year is limited to 48 players, on a first come first served basis. There are special prices on beer and house-pouring for all registered players on any game night.

PRIZES
1st - Gan Classic Trophy, One Bottle 12-year-old Scotch Whisky + Two Jugs Of Beer + One Bottle of Sparkling Wine
2nd - One Bottle 12-year-old Scotch Whisky + Two Jugs Of Beer
3rd - One Bottle Scotch + Two Jugs Of Beer
4th - Two Jugs of Beer


GOODIES FOR ALL REGISTERED PLAYERS, ANY GAME NIGHT:
Tiger Draft at 6.99+, Guinnes Stout at 9.99+, Heineken at 9.99+, Stella Artois at 13.99+ and house-pouring at 9.99+.

DATES:
ROUND 1:
November 14th, 15th, 16th and 21st
ROUND 2:
November 22nd And 23rd
ROUND 3:
November 28th
FINAL:
November 30th

FORMAT FOR ROUND 1, 2, 3:
- One-frame round robin
- Six players per table
- Top three players of each table qualifies for next round
- In the event of a tie(s), players with the least number of balls remaining (cumulatively) will qualify

FINAL ROUND:
November 30th
- Best of three, round robin
- 3rd and 4th Placing Will Be Determined By Ranking (No Play Off)
- Top two of the Group will play best of three to determine Champion and Runner-Up.

RULES:
1.Players will have to put in OWN coins.
2.Umpires will be provided for ALL games.
3.Umpires decision shall be FINAL.
4.House rules apply. Click here.

CONTACT:
Jerry Chong at 012-201-6333, if you wish to participate

JAMFEST INTO ITS 4TH WEEK
November 07, 2005

Izzy is a singer-songwriter who has been playing the guitar since she was 12. She has played at several open mic and songwriter gigs and currently is in a duo with Jeremy Lim called Plush Velvet. Their music is described as "jazzy and pop-ish".

Benchmarx comprises five teachers with a bent for music and they play an eclectic set of 80s and 90s hits as well as songs that "many bands are either too afraid or ashamed to attempt."

The band comprises Eric Beck, Bill Madden, Steve Northcott, Erik Richardson and Kenny Peavy.

360 Degree Head Rotation or 360DHR is an underground band that plays original numbers inspired by the likes of Tom Waits, Bauhaus, Joy Division, Hendrix, Clapton, Lennon and The Cure.

They "weave their own aural tapestry" in their shows and comprise Rafil on rhythm guitar, Jack on lead guitar, Nazrul on bass and Nuhi on drums.

Music kicks off at 9pm on Thursday, Nov 10th at 28, Jalan Sri Hartamas 8, Taman Sri Hartamas, KL.

Call +6012-201-6333 or visit http://www.backyardpub.com

No cover charge, no reservations, no tickets and no freeloaders.

Cheers,
Jerry Chong,
Backyard Pub & Grill

JAMFEST GOES COUNTRY
November 02, 2005

Press Release by backyardpub.com

Wednesday, Nov 02 -- Backyard Pub & Grill's Jamfest2005 goes country and rock 'n' roll on Thursday, Nov 3rd with a stellar cast of Alfred Ho, Allan Perera, Errol de Cruz and Jerry Singho (Os Pombos).

We relive the days when pubs like Cattlemen's Inn, Longhorns and Gold Canyon gave credence to Malaysian-styled country music.

Expect some good ol' rock 'n' roll and oldies too on our country 'n' western-themed night on the third week of Jamfest2005.

Dust off those hats and boots and come on over ya'll.


Issued by
Jerry Chong
Backyard Pub & Grill.

DOUBLE TAKE AT BACKYARD
October 28, 2005

JAMFEST2005 ROCKS ON IN WEEK TWO
October 24, 2005

Press Release

Mon, Oct 24th -- The Jamfest2005 at Backyard Pub in Sri Hartamas kicks off its second week with the high-energy rock band Frequency Cannon, old-style rock purveyors Krude and Latin rock percussion outfit La Viva.

"We want to bring audiences an ecletic mix of great music from varied genres to make it a memorable and fun night for everyone," said Jamfest2005 music director Edmund Anthony.

In the line-up this week are FREQUENCY CANNON who took first place at Astro Hitz.TV Blast Off band showdown in February. Their music has been described as akin to The Cure and their stage performances nothing short of "high octane and electrifying".

This quintet comprises Kua Chee on lead vocals, Azrul on bass, Yu-Ri, on lead guitar, Siva on rhythm guitar and Dino on drums.

The band recorded an EP with four songs, two of which, Girl and Fame & Glory, are featured in the movie Gol & Gincu.

KRUDE consists of seven expatriates, who have been in the local circuit since 2002.

The band's first-ever gig was at The Shamrock in Jalan Ampang on June 7, 2002 during the World Cup's England versus Argentina game in Japan. The night is equally remembered for Krude's performance as well as England's triumph.

Since then Krude has entertained varied audiences with their brand of upbeat, 60's to 80's covers of iconic bands such as The Beatles and The Rolling Stones and a "spattering of new covers".

They have racked up gigs at charity events, international school bashes, private functions and parties at places like the Little Havana at Changkat Raja Chulan, the Marriot Hotel, Crown Princess Hotel, and even the US Embassy.

LA VIVA is led by Alphonse Jerome and Mathew Charles who formed a unique Latin rock and percussion band that has won a wide following in the local music circuit.

The four-piece band has a penchant for numbers made famous by Carlos Santana and Bob Marley and covers a wide repertoire of genres from rock, blues and reggae to Latin American, Caribbean and salsa music.

The music starts at 9pm and as usual in all Backyard events, there will be no reservations, no cover charge, no tickets, and of course no free loaders.

Jamfest2005 is being held at Backyard Pub &: Grill and Sri Hartamas over five Thursdays from October 20th to November 17th and brings together both young and promising acts with veteran musicians at a single venue.

For more info on Jamfest2005, please check out the website http://www.backyardpub.com.

LAST WEEK
Last week's Jamfest2005 opening night started off slowly but worked its way up to a frenzy in the latter half of the night.

First-up was guitar duo Aziz & Zainal, old-timers in the Malaysian scene, who shone with their energetic and unsatinised covers of rock, reggae and blues, entertaining a crowd that had trooped in as early as 8pm.

They were followed by the petite Saer Ze, 22, who enticed with her intriguing brand of original electro-pop numbers.

Saer Ze, who recently released her own album entitled Shameless, showed guts and a likeable stage presence despite the lack of band to back her up.

Then came the highlight of the night when Julian's Black Hammer took to the stage and pounded every loose nail in the house down.

Band leader Julian Mokhtar enthralled the audience with his fiery solos in a non-stop two-hour showcase of his individual brilliance, backed ably by fellow Blues Gang alumnus Jim Mandasamy and ex-Ella & The Boys drummer Suhaimi.

Issued by
Jerry Chong
Backyard Pub & Grill.
(Note: Part of the proceeds for the opening night, Oct 20th was donated to a charity in respect of the passing of Datin Paduka Seri Endon Mahmood)

JAMFEST2005 AT THE BACKYARD KICKS OFF
October 19, 2005

Press Release

Wed, Oct 19th -- The Backyard Pub & Grill is proud to announce Jamfest2005, the second annual music festival promoting young and upcoming bands alongside veteran musicians.

The fest kicks off this Thursday, Oct 20th and will be held over five Thursdays ending on November 17th.

Jamfest2005 will feature over 15 vibrant and dynamic bands on the local music scene including recently crowned grand champions for Astro Hitz.TV's Blast Off! competition Frequency Cannon, progressive rock band Tempered Mental, highly infectious fusion band Cosmic Funk Express, and cheeky electro-pop artiste Saer Ze.

Among the veterans sharing the limelight will be former Blues Gang members Julian Mokhtar and Jim Mandasamy together with drummer Suhaimi, formerly of Ella and the Boys, in a new band called Julian's Black Hammer; perennial slowhand Viji together with rising Maldivian guitar star Fasy; and rock and percussion act La Viva, featuring Alphonse Jerome.

"We are excited that this year's Jamfest will showcase some new and dynamic acts never before seen on our stage. This is a great venue for them to strut their stuff," said Jerry Chong, owner of Backyard Pub and organizer of the Jamfest2005.

"Backyard has always promoted homegrown musicians and we are proud to make this year's Jamfest equally memorable and entertaining."

Last year, Jamfest2004 attracted over 90 musicians and was held over seven weeks in October and November. The inaugural fest was in memory of late singer and guitarist Jairus Anthony, who played in pubs for over two decades but succumbed to pancreatic cancer in July 2004.

"We want to continue in the spirit of last year's event which is to encourage young and experienced musicians to come together at a single venue to perform and get the attention they deserve," said Edmund Anthony, the music director of the event and brother of Jairus.

He said all invited musicians were paid for their participation last year. "For some of the alternative and underground acts this was their first paying gigs and they never had such an appreciative audience."

"On the last night on Jamfest2004, an informal Jamfest fund was set up and RM13,720 in pledges was raised. The fund was disbursed to four deserving charities," said Anthony.

As usual in all Backyard events, there will be no reservations, no cover charge, no tickets, and of course no free loaders.

For more info on Jamfest2005, please check the website http://www.backyardpub.com.

JAMFEST FUND DISBURSED
September 28, 2005

BACKYARD SINGER WINS BON JOVI CONTEST
September 14, 2005

Noah has been a regular feature every Friday at the Backyard Pub in Sri Hartamas for the past three years. He currently plays with crowd-pleaser Jericho, a trio comprising himself on vocals, guitarist Colin Jansen and keyboardist Amizan Ariffin.

Noah beat 40 other hopefuls in the contest and was adjudged to have done the best rendition of Bon Jovi's latest single Have A Nice Day

Noah said JRM cut a 12-song debut album called "Experiment" and went on a self-financed, two-week tour of Japan in 1999. "It was a great success and we won many new fans in Kyoto and Osaka," he said.

In 2000, the band signed on with the Sony Music label. A song from their album If You Need To Love Someone was re-mastered and released as a single and was on the Radio 4 charts for three weeks. "We also made a video that appeared on MTV," said Noah.

JRM broke off with Sony after a year, and the band -- comprising Terence Inigo, Wilson Duke, Kelvin Lim, Mozad, Timothy Joshua Ong and Noah - split up because of work and personal commitments.

his highs in Amsterdam when he gets back on dry land.

© Backyardpub.com

MERDEKA POOL COMPETITION 2005
August 06, 2005

PRESS RELEASE by Backyardpub.com

Backyard Pub and Grill hosts the 2005 Merdeka Pool Competition to be held from Aug 22nd to Aug 31st.

Up for grabs are bottles of whisky and jugs of beer courtesy of the pub. Come and see our finest cueing maestros rack 'em up and put 'em balls away.

The competition this year is limited to 28 players, first come first served. Lights snacks will be provided F.O.C for all game days.

PRIZES

1st - One Bottle 12-year-old Scotch Whisky + Three Jugs of Beer + One Bottle of Sparkling Wine
2nd - One Bottle of Sahib (Pay RM40 for upgrade to 12-yr-old Scotch) + Two Jugs of Beer
3rd - Three Jugs of Beer
4th - Two Jugs of Beer

FORMAT:
ROUND 1:
22 August and 24 August 2005
- One-frame round robin
- Seven players per table
- Top three players of each table qualifies for final round
- In the event of a tie(s), players with the least number of balls remaining (cumulatively) will qualify

FINAL ROUND:
31 August
1ST STAGE:
- One frame round robin
- Six players per table
- Least number of balls remaining rule applies
- Top two players from each table qualifies for semi finals
2ND STAGE:
- SEMI FINALS AND FINALS: Best of three frames.

RULES:
Players will have to put in OWN coins.
Umpires will be provided for ALL games.
Umpires decision shall be FINAL.
House rules apply. Click here.


Cheers,
Jerry Chong,
Backyard Pub owner

SANTANA TRIBUTE AT BACKYARD
July 12, 2005

NEW BAND: LIGHTS
June 29, 2005

2ND BACKYARD POOL LEAGUE
May 4th, 2005

Backyard Pub & Grill is proud to announce the 2nd Backyard Pool League 2005.

The league commences 9th May 2005 in a brand new format, scheduled to run for six weeks.

The management has decided to generously provide all players a 15

JOE AND THE POWER OF HYPNOSIS
May 3rd, 2005

People are funny and there's nothing like a hypnotism show to reveal how funny we all are.

The Backyard Pub & Grill showcases an evening of entertainment with hypnotist Joe Nathan Lourdes

Journalist-turned-hypnotist Joe is a Malaysian trained in the U.S. by two award-

ALFRED HO AT THE BACKYARD
Apr 27th, 2005

Alfred Ho is the consummate entertainer with over three decades of performing experience at numerous stageshows, private functions and nightspots across the country.

He has endeared himself to audiences for his interpretations of evergreen numbers from legendary crooners Elvis Presley, Cliff Richard, Tom Jones, Engelbert

SWOON TO WOON
Apr 26th, 2005

Explore the magic of the human mind with hypnotist Joe!

He has trained with renowned American hypnotists Jerry Valley, Calvin Banyan, Don Mottin and George Bien.
He will bust myths about hypnosis, and help you experience the most relaxing time you’ll ever have.

PRESS RELEASE by Backyardpub.com

This week at Backyard Pub & Grill:

TUESDAY,APRIL 19TH:
It's quiz night at Backyard at 9.30pm every Tuesday night.

PROFILE ON COLIN JANSEN OF JERICHO:
Colin was introduced into a musical career in the early 1980's when he emerged the winner in a talent-time contest in Ampang Park Complex singing 'Johnny Be Good'.

A nearly fatal motor-bike accident, and with his leg plastered because of a broken hip-bone, kept him at home for a few months and made him take up a guitar, given by his parents, to pass the time away.

Finding a great affinity for the guitar he quickly learnt the various chords and played and sang songs. He

2ND QUIZ NIGHT FINALS
Mar 28, 2005

MR FLAMENCO MEETS MR GAMBUS:
A SPECIAL PRESENTATION
Mar 16, 2005

DENISE FREEMAN AND FARID ALI AT BACKYARD
Feb 21st, 2005

TSUNAMI FUNDS: A BIG THANK YOU
Jan 24, 2005

TSUNAMI AID CONCERT AT BACKYARD
Jan 05, 2005

BACKYARD RETRO NIGHT ON DEC 31
WITH SURESH & FRIENDS
Dec 28, 2004

RHYTHM OF RIGHTS 2
Dec 09, 2004

GAN CLASSIC 2004 KICKS OFF
Nov 22, 2004

JAMFEST2004 IS A RESOUNDING SUCCESS,
FUND TO BE SET UP
Nov 16, 2004

DEEPAVALI DESIRES
Nov 08, 2004

WRAPPED AROUND HIS FINGERS
Oct 12, 2004

BACKYARD PUB & GRILL HOSTS INAUGURAL JAIRUS ANTHONY MUSIC FESTIVAL AND LAUNCHES WEBSITE BACKYARDPUB.COM
Sept 22, 2004

His rendition of Lionel Ritchie's Truly while he wiped a tear from the "sporting" lady on stage seem unrehearsed and swooned the ladies in the crowd.

Also on hand was the crew from Malaysia.TV that webcasted the event live on the Internet, another first for Backyard.

MERDEKA POOL COMPETITION KICKS OFF
Aug 16, 2004

Press Release

The Backyard Pub & Grill is proud to announce the launch of the inaugural Jairus Anthony Musical Festival 2004.

To be held every Wednesday for six weeks beginning in October, the festival will showcase the country's best guitarists and percussionists and provide a platform for young and up-and-coming songwriters to strut their stuff.

"It is a shame local musicians do not get the platform they deserve to show off their incredible talent. We want to make this an annual affair for the most talented local musicians in the country to play at a single venue and attract recording companies," said Backyard owner Jerry Chong.

Chong said the idea for the musicfest germinated after the loss of Jairus Anthony in July from pancreatic cancer. A highly respected singer and guitarist, who parlayed his talents for over two decades in the local pub circuit, Jairus never received the recognition and industry accolades he deserved. It was only after his illness was diagnosed that a live tribute album featuring his talent was finally recorded through the kindness of fellow musicians, fans and friends.

"I decided the festival should be in memory of Jairus because he exemplified the kind of musician we plan to showcase. He was dedicated to his craft and had a humble and warm personality, and was an inspiration to other musicians, and to everyone he touched with his fragile voice and unique ability," said Chong.

Backyard Pub is currently in the midst of securing sponsors for the festival and has already signed on top-billers such as Paul Ponnudorai, Rafique Rashid, Albert Sirimal and Vijay David.

Wednesday nights promise to be rollicking fun at the Backyard in Taman Sri Hartamas with at least three acts a night for four hours of great music. New and promising talents will be descending to the pub to make their debuts and will be given a chance to perform their original numbers for the first time ever.

The musicfest kicks off at 9pm, on the first Wednesday of October 2004.

Backyard Pub & Grill is your friendly, neighbourhood pub for live music and live sports events located at No.28, Jalan Sri Hartamas 8, Taman Sri Hartamas, Kuala Lumpur. We have live music every night from Wednesdays to Saturdays, two English pool tables, a big screen and four TVs for live English Premier League matches. Our kitchen serves up great Western and local dishes and we also cater to special functions.

View the latest goings-on through our website at backyardpub.com or call us at 03-6201-0318.