SEARCH : KONSERT PANGGUNG KHAYALAN : STADIUM EDUCITY NUSAJAYA JOHOR - MALAYSIA : 24/10/2015

 

 

It was always special when SEARCH came home and played homeground - Johor Bahru The City of Rock 'N' Roll.

It was even more special this time around. They show was scheduled to start at 8.00 pm, but for whatever reasons, SEARCH only hit the stage at approximately 9.30 pm. The crowds have been waiting helplessly, our old legs have started aching, standing to nothing and some have continued to chant 'We want Search ! We want Search !'.

By 9.00 pm, this one male singer came out (FIQ of the reality TV singing program - Mentor). From the look of his face, it was like he was asked to perform as to fill in the slot. He delivered 3 tracks and we could only shook our head in disapproval. We all came for SEARCH, aren't we ?!

 

So dear Universal Music Malaysia, no opening act please unless it has been planned and announced earlier. We could plan our schedule better if we knew the show will start so late. Some would probably skipped him for a fast and light dinner outside.

But thankfully, as soon as SEARCH took centre stage, they redeemed the night with a bang. The stage and lighting were incredible. Earlier newspaper report said that SEARCH would probably brings the Istana Budaya setlists down to Nusajaya. It turned out that there were a few changes, the 'Konsert Panggung Khayalan' setlist was good enough for us.

 

The first 3 tracks were just great. The song "Panggung Khayalan" was that perfect track to open the night, no other. Next was even bigger - "Paranoid" (there was none from 'Karisma' in Istana Budaya, and this time we also got "Melastik Ke Bintang") and then "Gadisku" which raised the atmosphere higher when the crowds started to sing along.

NASIR (bass) was calm with glimpse of smile, singing along to the lyric while pounding the bass in style. DIN (guitar) and KID (guitar) at far left and right did really well. KID was far better from his disastrous 1st night Istana Budaya appearance. While, AMY was electrifying with his amazing wild stage antic. His move at time reminded us of Jacky Chan from the movie 'Drunken Master'. The younger sessionnist PAE (drum) was a madman and worked well with the heavy numbers, capitalizing on his rough drum strokes.



Photo Credit : The Photoshooterz

AMY also talked about their coming 35th Anniversary next year and planned to celebrate it in Johor as this was where the story of SEARCH began.

 

When YAZIT came onstage, AMY relates the song "Teguh" to him which somehow reflects his strength and dedication. Then it happened, SEARCH did "Ku Taklukkan Dunia", simply unbelievable, and the crowds joined in during " ... Masih Ada ...". So AMY finally realized that they haven't played it live for a very long time. 

The session after YAZIT started with "Gothik Malam Edan" which remained as one good heavy number. We hoped that they will skip "No Way !!!" and replaced one more song from the album 'Rampage'. Perhaps more tracks from 'Karisma'. It ended with "Pawana" as always. We do think that SEARCH is more "Balada Pemuzik Jalanan" than "Pawana".

SEARCH came out with an encore surprisingly, and returned on stage with "Cakap Memang Murah". AMY then came down and hop onto the back of one security and walked pass those at the front, shaking hands. He also tried to let himself loose at the crowds as they began to lift him up to attempt body surfing but was denied by the security.

If 'Konsert Pangung Khayalan' was the Johor version of the Istana Budaya show, then it was surely the winner. Should they kept "Balada Pemuzik Jalanan" (a must have) and "Langit Dan Bumi" in the setlist, we will be more happier, but not at the expense of "Ku Taklukkan Dunia". Welcome back SEARCH ! This is SEARCH we all knew !


Photo Credit : The Photoshooterz

We still put hope for 'Konsert Fenomena 30 Tahun' DVD after 4 years. So, make the move Universal Music Malaysia, we want the 'Panggung Khayalan' show in DVD please.

 

Video credit : Fenomena Search

Setlists
  1) Panggung Khayalan (Rock 'N' Roll Pie)
  2) Paranoid (Karisma)
  3) Gadisku (Mentari Merah Di Ufuk Timur)
  4) Metropolitan (Rampage)
  5) Hongky Tong Kosong (Gema Di Timur Jauh)
  6) Kejoraku Bersatu (Selepas Banjir)
  7) Melastik Ke Bintang (Karisma)
  8) Menuju Puncak (Gema Di Timur Jauh)
 
With Yazit
  9) Ku Taklukkan Dunia (Fenomena)
10) Fantasia Bulan Madu (Mentari Merah Di Ufuk Timur)
11) Kejora (Cinta Buatan Malaysia)
12) Rozana (Langit Dan Bumi)
14) Isabella (Fenomena)

15) Gothik Malam Edan (Gothik Malam Edan)
16) Pelesit Kota (Mentari Merah Di Ufuk Timur)
17) No Way !!! (Gema Di Timur Jauh)
18) Diari Habil & Qabil (Rock 'N' Roll Pie)
19) Isi Dan Kulit (Cinta Buatan Manusia)
20) Pawana (Fenomena)
Encore
21) Cakap Memang Murah (Double Trouble)

WINGS : BONGKAR - TA'KAN MELAYU HILANG DI DUNIA : ISTANA BUDAYA - MALAYSIA : 11/06/2015

 

WINGS was majestic and mystical on stage with Orkestra Tradisional Malaysia, yet still stood proud as a loud long haired rock 'n' roll band (BON JOVI's "Blood On Blood" anyone ?). We attended the 2nd show and it was a very big night indeed !

 

When we first heard that WINGS will hit Istana Budaya with this cultural approach, roping in malay traditional instruments, we started thinking to bring our two kids along.

If somehow 'rock' was not their cup of tea, at least, they will have a brief insight about malay traditional instruments and what was 'silat' (ancient malay martial art) all about, especially when 'modernization' is eating up all the 'old tradition' piece by piece. These will also give them a good understanding that 'rock' music is not just about getting wild all the time. When age started to catch up, our affection for 'rock' music has became more relax, though sometimes old habits did rose its ugly head occasionally, hahaha.

There was no hesitation, WINGS will definitely goin' to nail it. It will be a straight 7 nights performance and the turnout was okay for the 2nd night. The energy will be more monstrous if somehow it goes for only 3 or 4 nights - full house probably.
 

In line with the theme, there was no long scarf tied at the mic stand as per the 1st night, we have a 'songket' instead for the 2nd night (a traditional patterned type of cloth that comes with metallic thread). All in WINGS wore the traditional heroic outfit, and so did the others on stage. The show started with a poetry like narration by the host and some amazing 'silat' showcase. 

 

The introduction piece was a 2 songs back-to-back. It started with the 'nobat performance' (traditional musical performance during royal coronation) coming to play, where the trumpet-like 'nafiri' (sounded like bagpipe) was blown out loud and the sound moved in hypnotising rhythm. It actually marked the start of ceremony. JOE gave his electric strumming in response, and the excitement began.

"Hukum Karma" was then executed, sounded so rich musically when the traditional instruments started to blend in here and there. AWIE was at his best. The 'gamelan' (set of brass percussion) was astonishing and WINGS was set to conquer the night.

The sound of 'kompang' (tambourine lookalike hand percussion) then came roaring, giving the cue for 'Bazooka Penaka" to blast in (normally it was the drum making the cue). It was grandeur like a big traditional malay feast goin' mad. We simply lost our sanity at that time, and sang along to it madly. Everybody started singing we believed. 

The 1st segment started with JOE narrating deep about their music. It has always been rock & heavy years after years, but never have they lost their origin, their root. The background was the sound of 'seruling'' (malay traditional flute) mixed with JOE mesmerising string works, and it then continued with "Sayap Illusi' which made the track felt more heavier, not musically though. At that point, we turned to our little girl, she was singing along slowly with her eyes wide opened.

"Sembuyi" was a surprise and broke all boundaries. The 'gamelan' stood out and we got 'gambus' solo (arabic guitar) at the first break before JOE wrapped it up with his electric solo. It was then 'kompang' with female backing vocal at the 2nd break as AWIE hit the high note "...ramai manusia...". Incredible !

 

Coming all the way from Johor, it was an honour to hear "Tanjung Putri" which started traditionally at first, before turned heavy. Then, there was another long narration to drive up the might as its "Inspirasi Taming Sari" next. Another highlight of the night especially with the short 'silat' showcase at midway which AWIE took part. Once the showcase ended, the track blasted back in style. BLACK got extra pounding support from the 'rebana' and 'gendang' (traditional drums).

 

"Anugerah" and "Dari Tuhan" (though still heavy at midpart) was accompanied by nasyid group, and  "Zikir Asma Ul-Husna and "Selawat" was added in so that we have a more meaningful night - our compliment.

 

WINGS also revisited BLUES GANG' - "Ibu" (from 'Versi Tanpa Distortion') with JOE and EDDIE pairing up front for the guitar and bass intro. AWIE was emotionally heavy but still delivered the track well. Then came the 6-tracks medley (from 'Menakluk Kosmos'). The crowds joined in everywhere, and it became so lively. The song "Sejati" was a loud sing along, and the intro was brilliant where JOE took on the 'nafiri' with his wild tremolo play.

Photo courtesy of Sayap-Sayap Wings

So come on and head to Istana Budaya for the remaining nights. Be part of this historical event, or else, you need to wait for 2 years if you are lucky enough to see the show to be released in DVD/CD - just like Rockestra 2013. 'BONGKAR' was extra ordinary and indeed another milestone achievement for WINGS. A must attend !

By the way, the track "Orang Kita" will also work out well for the night ...

 

Setlists

 

Introduction

  1) Hukum Karma (Hukum Karma)

  2) Bazooka Penaka (Bazooka Penaka)

Monologue (JOE)

  3) Sayap Illusi (Naga Kramat)

  4) Sembunyi (Hukum Karma)

  5) Ranggi Metropolis (Naga Kramat)

Monologue (BLACK)

  6) Tanjung Putri (malay traditional song)

  7) Inspirasi Taming Sari (Belenggu Irama)

Monologue (AWIE)

  8) Zikir Asma Ul-Husna

  9) Anugerah (Hukum Karma)

10) Selawat

11) Dari Tuhan (Belenggu Irama)

Monologue (EDDIE)

12) Ibu (BLUES GANG)

13) Medley

      a) Biru Mata Hitam Ku (Biru Mata Hitam Ku)

      b) Belenggu Irama (Belenggu Irama)

      c) Potret Monalisa (Teori Domino)

      d) Taman Rashidah Utama (Hukum Karma)

      e) Di Ambang Wati (Bazooka Penaka)

      f) Semalam Yang Hangat (Orang Asing)

14) Sejati (Teori Domino)

15) Opera Hidup (Hukum Karma)

Event Shirts

Official merchandise from Grousiey Printhouse



OUR PHOTO - NUNSLAUGHTER (US) : 'SOUTH EAST ASIA' TAPE (2015) : MORBID TAPES (MAL)

 

We are not professional photographer, but it is a must to let our lense ran loose when attending gig. We are honoured that our photo taken at NunSlaughter's Johor Bahru - Malaysia gig on 24/03/2012 (Hellbanger South East Asia Tour) was used in 'black & white' for the inner sleeve of the tape release by Morbid Tapes (Mal).

(photo credit : Morbid Tapes)

The photo was earlier contributed to Majalah Karisma online portal and later published in their printed issue - No # 24 (May '2012 : Page 50). It showed up on this blog as well.

Yet, the photo was not properly credited. Nevertheless, we welcome any band to use our photo in the future. Just drop us a line will do.

MIDNIGHT (USA) : INTERVIEW : TRUE METAL INVASION # 2 - SINGAPORE : 26/04/2015

We remembered how we wished that MIDNIGHT would hit South East Asia when we were doin' the review of 'Complete And Total Hell' for Hells Headbangers Records back then. Thanks to the organizer - BURSTIN' OUT for finally bringin' them over.

 

Simply, this is a show that you all should not missed. We all had a blast during True Metal Invasion # 1 with ONSLAUGHT (UK), DEATHHAMMER (Nor), DESECRATION (Ire) and other South East Asian bands back in 2012. Looking at this year line-up, it's goin' to be another all hell breaks loose.

 

So we get hold of Athenar for a brief interview as to get your adrenalin burning mad. Its 14 days to Midnight ! Get the ticket and be there !

We are MIDNIGHT ready !!! Are you ?!!

 

WELCOME ATHENAR ! EVERYTHING CHECKED FOR THE 'TRUE METAL INVASION' (SINGAPORE) THIS COMING 26TH APRIL 2015 ?

Yes, I hope all goes well. I always expect the worst out of live though !

 

WHAT FINALLY MADE YOU TO COME OVER SINCE YOU ARE NOT A HUGE FAN OF TOURING ?

Somebody asked me in a very polite way ! I'm not really a fan of touring many dates in a row and playing the same songs night after night. I do like visiting cool places I've never been to though. I'm really looking forward for the gig.

 

WILL MIDNIGHT MAKE ANY STOP TO OTHER SOUTH EAST ASIAN COUNTRIES ?

It's just a one off gig. We're doing a few shows in New Zealand and Australia before the Singapore gig.

 

MANAGED TO CHECK OUT SOME OF THE BANDS THAT WILL SHARE THE STAGE WITH MIDNIGHT ?

I'm looking forward to hearing them live. It keeps it more interesting and fresh.

 

YOU DID SAID THAT - 'DON'T PUT ON EXPECTATION SO YOU (CROWD) WILL ENJOY THE SHOW EVEN MORE' ...

Well, that what's we shoot for. Like I said, I always expect the worst but hope for the best !

 

BUT WHENEVER MIDNIGHT PLAYS, THE ROOF WILL EXPLODE ! ITS STARTED TO SOUND LIKE MANOWAR NOW ... DO YOU STILL LOVE THE BAND (MANOWAR) ?

MANOWAR are one of the best bands ever in my opinion. Of course the first 5 albums are my favourites but they're still really good live. They're really underrated band here in the States.

 

SUPRISINGLY, MIDNIGHT ALREADY PLAYED IN UNITED ARAB EMIRATES (UAE) ...

Yes, that was a very unique gig, very different from what we're used to in the States. I think most of the peoples at the gig were not from UAE but other countries.

 

DOIN' ANY COVER SONGS ON STAGE PERHAPS ?

No, I don't think we've ever done cover song live. One time a few years ago we did do "Earache My Eye" by Alice Bowie but that's the only time I can remember. Oh, we did "TAP" from Black Ax in Philadelphia.

 

VENOM APPEARS TO PLAY BIG PART IN MIDNIGHT, AND WE FINALLY GOT "TOO LOUD (FOR THE CROWD)" FROM THE ALBUM 'POSSESSED' ON FLEXI FOR DECIBEL MAG ...

Yeah, that song was supposed to go on Venom tribute LP coming out soon. But then the Decibel thing came out, so I gave them that song, and just recorded another Venom song "In League With Satan" for the tribute LP.

 

ANY SPECIAL RELEASE TO CELEBRATE MIDNIGHT IN SINGAPORE ?

No, not that I know of. I should've have planned better !

 

WILL THE HOODS STAY ?
Hopefully the hoods will stay.

WILL WE GET TO SEE YOUR BASS BURNT ON STAGE ?

I really don't think the bass will burn though. From what we know in the States, if you spit on the sidewalks in Singapore, you will be beat. So I will behave good.

 

ANYTHING YOU WOULD LIKE TO ADD ...

Can't wait for the gig and hang out with the South East Asian metal maniax !

WINGS : MENAKLUK KOSMOS 2015 : MELAKA INTERNATIONAL TRADE CENTRE - MALAYSIA : 31/01/2015

 

 

Melaka became the 2nd state after Penang to play host to 'Menakluk Kosmos' tour. Next will be Terengganu where all east coast fans will assemble. Since there was still no announcement when WINGS will hit Johor, so why not Melaka ?!

We never seen them live on stage elsewhere except in our hometown - Johor (the last time was 'Konsert Double Trouble 2010') and most of the times in Kuala Lumpur. Its goin' to be one good experience to see how Melaka pays homage to this rock & roll legend.

We reached the historical city of Melaka at noon and went straight to the venue to meet Zul of Sayap2Wings (official fanclub) and got our ticket. Next was to find one affordable place to get the family safely check-in, get lunch and refresh ourselves before the show starts later at night.

The indoor venue - Melaka International Trade Centre (MITC) was perfect. The stage looked good. WINGS had never let us down so far, so one memorable rock & roll night was for sure.

We arrived later at the venue at 8.00 pm, and the strong Melaka fans have already gathered. By the look of their faces, everybody were excited. Even the Melaka event shirt had already sold out.

The show started around 9.20 pm and Isma Halil (rock DJ and emcee for the night) came on stage and said that there was no harm for the fans to bring out handphone or camera (except for big commercial video cam recorder). Everyone wanted to bring back some good memories of the show, so be it. Anggerik Event (organizer) and Sayap2Wings (official fanclub) simply treated the fans well. Salute !

WINGS opened the night with "Amok", which tend to relate well with the host since Hang Jebat did ran amok if we looked back at the Melaka history. The response was enormous. But if given a choice, we opted for the track "Menakluk Kosmos" as opener, a very fast heavy number which would make MITC exploded severely. Its 'Konsert Menakluk Kosmos' after all.

 

Anyone has the complete setlists for Penang by the way ? Looking at earlier local newspaper reports about the Penang show, the setlists in Melaka didn't changed except for "Inspirasi Taming Sari" which came in for "Ameringo".
 

The song "Inspirasi Taming Sari" would fit well if WINGS wanted to drive up the adrenaline even more at the start of the show. But it was "Bujang Senang", followed by "Pengabdian Ku Kekasih" (with the bluesy "how are you Melaka" intro). The band was rockin' on stage, but at that point, we started to have this 'Rockestra 2013' dejavu. 

AWIE then started to communicate with the crowds and he said that this was their first nationwide tour after 20 years.

It was pure joy when "Komplikasi Pramaya" came next. One of our favourite new tracks and hearing it live for the first time was satisfying. We got 5 songs from the album 'Menakluk Kosmos' which was good enough for us.

The best must be the song "Menakluk Kosmos" where AWIE gave his all to match that musically fast pace and heavy track, stretching the high note which he did really well frankly. JOE was electrifying, while EDDIE and BLACK thundered the bass and drum at full blast. The song even stop at the mid part with AWIE took a stint at the crowds before the song hammered back to the end. Killer !

 

We have already heard "Peti Pandora Mu" and "Ingatkan Dia" during 'Versi Tanpa Distortion' last year. But it was the distorted version this time around. While, "Raja Segala Duri" was all good.

 

It was always a pleasure to have "Sayap Illusi" in the setlists, a slow number yet heavy in substance. We also got "Ranggi Metropolis" and "Romania" which made our trip to Melaka even more memorable. While the long medley revisited 6 albums straight on, a definite trip back to memory lane. We just can't get enough of "Potret Monalisa".

WINGS however did the 'Rockestra 2013' version of "Bujang Senang", "Awang Thrasher" (JOE's guitar didn't sound that well on this song), "Kota Kemusnahan" and "Opera Hidup". How we wished for the original version though.

It was a grandeur 2015 opening for WINGS, and we were fortunate to be there. Menakluk Kosmos Melaka was just brilliant !

Setlists
  1) Amok (Bazooka Penaka)
  2) Bujang Senang (Teori Domino)
  3) Pengabdian Ku Kekasih (Bazooka Penaka)
  4) Komplikasi Pramaya (Menakluk Kosmos)
  5) Awang Thrasher (Jerangkung Dalam Almari)
  6) Peti Pandora Mu (Menakluk Kosmos)
  7) Ranggi Metropolis (Naga Kramat)
  8) Sayap Ilusi (Naga Kramat)
  9) Menakluk Kosmos (Menakluk Kosmos)
10) Ingatkan Dia (Menakluk Kosmos)
11) Inspirasi Taming Sari (Belenggu Irama)
12) Raja Segala Duri (Menakluk Kosmos)
13) Medley
      a) Biru Mata Hitam Ku (Biru Mata Hitam Ku)
      b) Belenggu Irama (Belenggu Irama)
      c) Potret Monalisa (Teori Domino)
      d) Taman Rashidah Utama (Hukum Karma)
      e) Di Ambang Wati (Bazooka Penaka)
      f) Semalam Yang Hangat (Orang Asing)
14) Romania (Teori Domino)
15) Kota Kemusnahan (Belenggu Irama)
16) Opera Hidup (Hukum Karma)
17) Sejati (Teori Domino)

SEARCH : LIVE IN ISTANA BUDAYA 2014 : ISTANA BUDAYA - MALAYSIA : 04/12/2014

 

 

Rock & roll legend - SEARCH finally walked into Istana Budaya for the first time. They are goin' to rock the roof off for 4 straight nights. So, this surely cannot be missed. But suprisingly it turned out otherwise.

Frankly, we are not sure what when wrong. We attended the first night. At this scale, it should be a night to remember but there was something missing with SEARCH.

Except for AMY (vocal) who was lively on stage, the others showed no joy and chemistry appeared lacking. We were seated close facing centre stage, so visibility was not a problem. NASIR (bass) looked grim, DIN (guitar) isolated himself and KID (guitar) just can't find his guitar sounds. Are they really ready for the first night ?!

Once the lighting sets in, DIN and KID were seen on stage preparing their gadgets, then came NASIR and the crowds threw a mad cheer once AMY stepped in. SEARCH opened the night with 'Panggung Khalayan' and with no break continued with their classic 'Balada Pemuzik Jalanan'. The sound was heavy indeed ! KID then went limbo with the guitar sound, but still continued playing. But he got the riff of 'Pelesit Kota' done well.

When AMY introduced YAZIT (drum) for the special segment, he was in tears. Despite his worsen health condition, YAZIT insisted to be there since the band played a big part of his life and he was also the founding member. He braved thru the night with 6 tracks (mainly slow numbers) and the crowd gave him a standing oviation.

When "Gadisku" drawing end, marking the exit of one of Malaysia best drummers, KID turned to YAZIT and calmly wrapped up his fretworks, his face expressed great respect, probably deep inside nobody knew the emotion his was holding onto.

While AMY gave his best, trying to connect as closest to the crowds, applause to that. He even jumped down to the isle while singing to "Isabella" and shaking hands.

The sets got more heavier after the special session, with 'Diari Habil & Qabil', "Gothik Malam Edan" and "No Way !!!".

The track "Gothik Malam Edan" was well delivered, tight and heavy, just brilliant.

To us, KID was at his best during the last 3 songs. We initially thought it was a brief guitar showcase when he stood alone in the spotlight and did some solos, and then came the deep riff of "Fenomena" intro before the band exploded at high voltage. The crowds were singing to the chorus and that one caucasian from PALADIN striked a cello solo, giving the song a bigger dimension. That was simply the moment !

Next was "Kereta Merah" and the show ended with "Pawana". All the PALADINs came down to the front stage, bringing the house down with SEARCH. That was just it.

There was no encore, there were no songs from the album 'KARISMA' and 'RAMPAGE'. There were also no meet & greet session for the first night.

SEARCH as a band we all knew all these long can deliver far better than this. Hopefully the following nights will be a blast.

Setlist
1) Panggung Khayalan (Rock 'N' Roll Pie)
2) Balada Pemuzik Jalanan (Cinta Buatan Malaysia)
3) Kejoraku Bersatu (Selepas Banjir)
4) Laila Namamu Teratas (Gema Di Timur Jauh)
5) Gelora Cintaku (Mentari Merah Di Ufuk Timur)
6) Langit Dan Bumi (Langit Dan Bumi)
7) Menuju Puncak (Gema Di Timur Jauh)
8) Honky Tong Kosong (Gema Di Timur Jauh)
9) Pelesit Kota (Mentari Merah Di Ufuk Timur)

Special segment with Yazit
10) Kejora (Cinta Buatan Malaysia)
11) Rozana (Langit Dan Bumi)
12) Fantasia Bulan Madu (Mentari Merah Di Ufuk Timur)
13) Isi Atau Kulit (Mentari Merah Di Ufuk Timur)
14) Isabella (Fenomena)
15) Gadisku (Mentari Merah Di Ufuk Timur)

16) Gothik Malam Edan (Gothik Malam Edan)
17) No Way !!! (Gema Di Timur Jauh)
18) Diari Habil & Qabil (Rock 'N' Roll Pie)
19) Fenomena (Fenomena)
20) Kereta Merah (Rock 'N' Roll Pie)
21) Pawana (Fenomena)

WINGS : VERSI TANPA DISTORTION : PLENARY HALL - PUTRAJAYA INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION CENTRE - MALAYSIA : 08/06/2014

 

Another historical event with WINGS went rockin' on stage without distortion at the prestigious Putrajaya International Convention Centre (PICC). For us, it was a perfect night ! Why ? Now you must read on ...

'Versi Tanpa Distortion' simply means brilliant different arrangements - a one time rendition that you will never experience elsewhere. So, it should not be missed ! Since this is an acoustic approach, the entire set was filled with those 'blues' vibe. The stage, sound and lighting were the best.

 

The management was also kind enough to allow the fans to record and take photo for the first 3 songs. That appears reasonable and should be kept like that moving forward.

It is impossible that WINGS read our review for 'Rockestra 2013', but oh well, we did got what we asked for - "Dalam Kehadiran Sofiah", "Midnight Blues" and "Rantai".

We were also celebrating our 13th wedding anniversary and it was definitely priceless to celebrate it with the band you grew up with, witnessing WINGS at their best on stage, and your another half close beside. Rockin' romantic !  Hahaha ! 

From our personal favourite album - 'Teori Domino' (1990), WINGS gave us 6 songs and it was just amazing. Our night was completed when we got the 'Teori Domino' album sleeve signed during the 'meet & greet session' afterward.

 

With nearly 45 minutes late, the show started with JOE sitting and riffing  alone onstage to the blues of "Dalam Kahadiran Sofiah", before the rest made their individual way out, starting with the guitar trio of Hillary Ang, Edrie Hashim and Ujang Tukimon. We were grinning with excitement and just kept telling ourselves, this will be a blast !

 

WINGS also pay tribute to old local heroes - LEFTHANDED, BLUES GANG and KEMBARA with a song each. When AWIE brought all of us back to 'Belenggu Irama' (1987), we really hope for "Biarkan Berlalu". Then it came, this time he delivered it with only JOE on guitar. You don't get this version even when you played back your old rusty tape of 'Belenggu Irama'.

Our best moment must be when the band grooved "Midnight Blues", a very rare song which we don't remember WINGS had played it live these recent years. Candidly, AWIE also said that Putrajaya is in need of some blues. The track "Perhentian" was great as well.

While, the best arrangement for the night was definitely "Taman Rashidah Utama" which has turned into this one enchanting piece with the organ/piano, and the song must have touched everyone with AWIE emotional vocal.

 

AWIE also pledged to the fans to fight against record piracy. With nearly 12 years with no album, 'Menakluk Kosmos' fell victim before the album was even released. The crowds were quite silence when the band hit their newest "Peti Pandora Mu" and "Ingatkan Dia". ("Bisa Yang Tertunda" next time please)

The only setback was the show was delayed to nearly 9.30 pm probably due to the late arrival of VIP, perhaps long queue at the entrance or for what other reasons. Everybody just need to be punctual next time please.

Another legendary show. The fans will talk about this for many years to come. So what's next ? An album show in its entirety - starting with 'Belenggu Irama' and 'Hukum Karma' albums perhaps ?! That sounds exciting !

Setlist

  1) Dalam Kehadiran Sofiah (Jerangkung Dalam Almari)

  2) Bujang Senang (Teori Domino)

  3) Perhentian (Teori Domino)

  4) Sayap Illusi (Naga Kramat)

  5) Hikayat Penuh Ranjau (Hukum Karma)

  6) Harapan (Teori Domino)

  7) Ku Dihalaman Rindu (LEFTHANDED)

  8) Ibu (BLUES GANG)

  9) Hati Emas (KEMBARA)

10) Guitar showcase

11) Biarkan Berlalu (Belenggu Irama)

12) Peti Pandora Mu (Menakluk Kosmos)

13) Ingatkan Dia (Menakluk Kosmos)

14) Midnight Blues (Teori Domino)

15) Ameringo (Naga Kramat)

16) Sejati (Teori Domino)

17) Taman Rashidah Utama (Hukum Karma)

18) Rantai (Teori Domino)



ALKIRA (AUS) - INTERVIEW (HAVOK : UNNATURAL SELECTION - SOUTH EAST ASIA TOUR 2014)

We will definitely be coming back, most likely in 2015 with an album to promote - ALKIRA

ALKIRA is a young Thrash Metal outfit from South Australia with 2 self released EPs out. We recently caught them thrashing the stage in Johor with solid and killer set. They were supporting HAVOK for the 'Unnatural Selection - South East Asia Tour 2014'. So we talked to Ryan (drum) to know more about ALKIRA and what he has to say about the tour.

WELCOME RYAN ! HOW'S EVERYTHINGS BACK IN AUSTRALIA ?

Hey there Pitt ! Things are swell down under. The weather has been crazy and weird (47 degrees one day, cold and raining the next). It's back to reality with work and study after a solid month touring in January. But we've got SOUNDWAVE, KREATOR, DEATH ANGEL, TOXIC HOLOCAUST and SKELETONWITCH hitting our hometown to look forward to !

 

HOW DID THE BAND GOT TOGETHER ? ANY PARTICULAR THRASH BANDS THAT INSPIRED THE BAND TO KICK START ?

It actually started as a SEX PISTOLS cover band, haha ! Kyle (guitar) and I (Ryan, drum) started jamming punk songs in the garage when we were 17/18 and it all just went from there. Right from the start, we loved our Thrash Metal (particularly METALLICA, TESTAMENT and EXODUS) and everything progressively got faster and faster. Sean (bass) and Greg (vocal/guitar) had been jamming together for a few years as well and it all kinda fell into place in late 2010. We certainly don't just consider ourselves a straight up Thrash Metal band, but it is the genre we closest associate with and definitely our influence. 'Ride The Lightning' is our collective favourite album of all time !

 

ALKIRA HAS RELEASED 2 EP - 'DOWN FROM THE HILLS' (2012) AND 'RED DEVIL' (2013) TODATE. TELL US MORE ABOUT YOUR DEBUT EP AND HOW WAS THE RESPONSE ?

'Down From The Hills' was very low budget and a very drunken process. We did it with a good mate of ours two summers ago and every session involved copious amounts of alcohol. So the end product wasn't exactly what we envisioned at the start (though it was a pretty good representation of our drinking habits, haha !). We only ever printed off 150 odd copies of that EP and they are all poisoning some unlucky peoples music collections as we speak. I think one drunk dude somewhere said he liked it ...

 

WITH IT NO LONGER AVAILABLE, IS THERE ANY PLAN TO RE-RELEASE IT SINCE ALKIRA IS GAINING MORE AND MORE ATTENTIONS THESEDAYS ?

There are a few tracks from 'Down From The Hills' that we have toyed around with the idea of re-recording as we still play them live quite regularly. But I don't think we will re-release the EP as it is. You never know, we might get our asses into gear and release the whole thing one day. I think there are a few songs on there that really deserve it.

 

WHAT ABOUT THE LATEST - 'RED DEVIL' ?

We spent a lot more time and money on our second release - 'Red Devil', which I think is pretty clear from first listen. We recorded the drums with Andy Kite at Against The Grain studio in Adelaide and recorded everything ourselves before getting it mixed and mastered by Darren 'Jenk' Jenkins (MORTAL SIN, DEPRIVATION) in New South Wales. We were really happy with how that turned out and the response has been amazing. I think it really helped getting us on the tour with HAVOK, considering we are unsigned, self-managed and don't even have a full length release.

 

'RED DEVIL' HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH MAN UNITED RIGHT ? HAHAHA !

Hahaha ! Well I am a avid United supporters (though I wouldn't say that too loud at the moment), but unfortunately no. It actually refers to our beer of choice - Cooper's Sparkling Ale. It gets you drunk as fuck very quickly, so the next day it can make you feel like you did a deal with the devil

(Hahaha ! So, this is the answer to the Coopers shirt 'Deal With The Devil' - ed)

 

HOW DO YOU MANAGED TO JOIN HAVOK FOR THE 'UNNATURAL SELECTION - SOUTH EAST ASIA TOUR 2014' ?

I saw on Facebook that HAVOK tour had been announced so close to home. So being a huge HAVOK fan I just emailed the booking agent and sent him the 'Red Devil' EP on the off chance we could score a support slot. I never thought we would actually get it.

 

 

BUT IT WAS ONLY FOR THE SINGAPORE AND MALAYSIA (JOHOR & KUALA LUMPUR) SHOWS, WHY NOT THAILAND (BANGKOK) AS WELL ?

I'm not sure why we weren't offered the Bangkok show, we definitely would have been interested in playing it as well. It just wasn't part of the agreement for some reason. We definitely enjoyed and made the most of the 3 shows we were offered though and we would do it again in a heartbeat.

 

THE CROWDS TREATED ALKIRA WELL AND WILD IN SINGAPORE ?

The Singapore show was crazy ! Definitely one of the highlights of the tour. A full house packed into a tiny club with everyone going nuts made it feel like we were living in the 80s Thrash movement. You honestly don't get the same energy and passion for the music from Australian crowds. Even though no one knew us and everyone was hanging out for HAVOK, they all still went crazy and wanted an encore. It was an indescribable feeling.

 

 

HOW DO YOU FIND THE JOHOR-MALAYSIA SHOW ? A SMALL SHOW INDEED BUT WITH SUPPORTIVE CROWDS ...

We had a blast at the Johor show as well. There were a few minor technical issues but all the punters went off again and seemed to dig it. It was crazy having people from a country we have never been to chanting our name while we were setting up to play. Everyone treated us like royalty after we finished.

 

ALKIRA live in Johor-Malaysia

WE HAVE THIS KILLER SPONTANOUS MOMENTS WHERE THIS ONE DIEHARD BANGER AT THE FRONT ROW GOT HIS HAIR TANGLED INTO GREG'S GUITAR. REMEMBER THAT ?

Hahaha ! Yes, I remember that very well. I was chuckling to myself behind the kit as Greg was riffing out and everyone was trying to untangled that guy hair from the headstock. Them the perils of Thrash Metal !

 

WHILE ANOTHER JUST TOOK THE MIC AND OPENED TO THE SEPULTURA'S COVER ...

He did a killer rendition of "Inner Self" as well. We always encourage people to get up and steal the mic for a verse or chorus if they know the words. (Hail KUKUBESI ! - ed)

 

HEARD THAT THERE WERE SOME SETBACKS AT THE KUALA LUMPUR-MALAYSIA SHOW, BUT ALKIRA STILL MANAGED TO THRASH 'EM ALL RIGHT ?

Ahh ... Kuala Lumpur, the dark horse of the tour. Yes, we rocked up to a disco venue which supplied only half a drum kit and no guitar amps, so we immediately thought for the worst. But everyone pulled together and we managed to get hold of some more drum stands and some guitar/bass combos and we hit the stage fucken hard. It actually turned out to be a really good show as well, and HAVOK absolutely killed it that night !

 

 

WHAT ARE THE BEST THINGS YOU MIGHT APPRECIATE HAVING PLAY HERE IN SINGAPORE AND MALAYSIA ? WILL YOU COME AGAIN ?

Those three shows were three of the best sets we have ever played. The hospitality and the enthusiasm from the fans, promoters (Eric we love you !), the venues, the local bands and everyone else involved made it a great atmosphere. We will definitely be coming back, most likely in 2015 with an album to promote.

 

WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT THE BAND - HAVOK ? YOU JOINED 'EM FOR ONE MORE SHOW BACK IN AUSTRALIA ...

HAVOK are absolutely killing at the moment. They are the tightest band I have ever seen live, and Pete Webber is the best thrash drummer in years, maybe ever ! It was an honour to share the stage with them over there and in Melbourne, and even more of an honour to hang out with them everyday (and a couple all-nighters on the beers as well). Given their status in the metal scene at the moment, they are still four of the coolest, most down to earth dudes you will ever meet. I haven't got anything but good words for (and some even better stories with) those guys.

 

HOW'S THE PROGRESS WITH YOUR DEBUT ALBUM ? WILLING TO GIVE US SOME HINTS ?

The album is coming together very nicely. We have almost finish writing all the music and have got all the lyrics down for a few as well. Looking at an August/September '2014 release at this stage. Those who caught our Singapore show were privy to a brand new song which called "Land Of The Sodomite Damned", which is very thrash. Without giving too much away, there is a lot of very fast shit, some really heavy shit, some groovy shit and some melodic shit to break it all up. We think everyone will dig it.

 

THANKS RYAN & ALKIRA ! SOME LAST WORDS TO ALL THOSE ASIAN ALKIRA DIEHARDS ...

Thanks for having me Pitt, it was a pleasure. All I want to say is thanks to everyone for all your support. Those who were there at the show(s), bought merchs, took photos, like us on the Book. All that crap helps fuel us to keep going. We will definitely be back soon, if you will have us ?!

Johor Setlists

1) Red Devil (Red Devil)

2) Power Trip (Down From The Hills)

3) Hell's March (Red Devil)

4) Down From The Hills (Down From The Hills)

5) The Nightmare (Red Devil)

6) Inner Self (SEPULTURA - Beneath The Remain)

TRIBUTE : BEHEMOTH : ASIA WORLD TOUR 2013 : SINGAPORE : 01/11/2013

Here we pay tribute to our brothers Nergal and Baal (ex-drummer) of Polish finest - BEHEMOTH !

LORD : DIGITAL LIVE TOUR 2013 - ASIA : STOP ZONE JOHOR BAHRU - MALAYSIA : 13/09/2013

LORD is a veteran Aussie Epic Power Metal band (originally known as DUNGEON). Frankly, we knew quite a little about LORD but when it comes to Power Metal, the guitar harmony and catchy choruses are always a threat to listen to. So we headed out to STOP ZONE to check them out.

 

If memory served us well, the last time we were in touch with Aussie Power Metal band was many years ago with Johnny Stoj & PEGAZUS.

 

Small turnout since it was Friday (working day), yet salute to TFHM PRODUCTION for still having guts to put up the show.

 

Opening band was DEMORFORESSUS (Johor Bahru), and they stand with potential. Blending a mixture of modern metal etc (they even have didgeridoo on stage), the band kicked ass with good song writing, heavy riffs (we sense element of Drone there) and strong vocal as well. They have an EP out somewhere, and we do need to check them out. Highly recommended !


DEMORFORESSUS

Next was NIRRAJIM (Muar) - a 3-pieces Eastern Black Metal band with melodic parts here and there, something that remind us strongly to early AS SAHAR. A good set with killer drumming.

NIRRAJIM

 

LORD then came on stage and blew everyone away. The crowds were extremely supportive, cheering the band continuously. Their set was tight and they nailed the numbers well. The band consist of Lord Tim (guitar/vocal), Andy Dowling (bass), Mark Further (guitar) and Simon Batley (drum). We are not sure whether Damian Costas still drums for the band.



 

 



The Digital Live Tour was to promote the band latest album 'Digital Lies' (released in Feb '2013). Check them out at : www.lord.net.au

 

We are unable to catch DETHREVAWAR (Kulaijaya) since we need to leave the venue early. Nevertheless, thumbs up to TFHM PRODUCTION !

 

Johor Setlists
1) Incipio (Digital Lies)
2) Betrayal Blind (Digital Lies)
3) Netherlife (DUNGEON - A Rise To Power)
4) Set In Stone (Set In Stone)
5) 2D Person In A 3D World (Digital Lies)
6) The Last Encore (Digital Lies)
7) The Power Within (DUNGEON - One Step Beyond)
8) Final Seconds (Digital Lies)
9) Through The Fire (Ascendance)
10) Footsteps In The Sand (A Personal Journey)
11) I Am Death (DUNGEON - Resurrection)
12) Creeping Death (METALLICA - Ride The Lightning)