WHILE rock and pop have their loyal followers, there is more than that in Klang Valley’s music scene.
These staples keep the crowds going but there’s still plenty to choose from for more niche genres like jazz and country music.
After doing shows online and busking, musicians are transitioning back to the stage, and the quality is shining through.
Here is a selection of venues where you can relax, grab a cold one and enjoy a night out with some music thrown in for good measure.
JAO TIM
61 Jalan Sultan, Kuala Lumpur
Tel: 03-2022 3897
Website: www.jaotim.comAn elegant venue in the heart of the city, Jao Tim absolutely drips with Old World charm but also serves up an interesting array of offerings.
As an events space, it gives life to a whole new set of musical offerings that stand out.
Friday: It’s all about the music of Stevie Wonder as songstress Kirana Kay sings some of the legend’s biggest hits. Tickets are priced at RM80 and entry is only for fully vaccinated individuals.
This Sunday: It’s back-to-back, two-hour jam sessions. From 2pm to 4pm, music takes a Celtic turn with the Celtic Fusion Jonk Project headlining, though jammers are welcome to try their hand on stage.
From 5pm to 7pm, it’s R&B all the way with Lea, Sylvia Wong, Elroy and H’ng Lih leading the proceedings from the stage.
Those who want to join the jam need to pay only RM10 or buy a drink to get in, but for all others, pre-sale tickets are available on the venue’s website, priced at RM35.
Next Thursday: Get in the mood for some smooth grooves, with talented saxophonist Julian Chan getting into the rhythm of the night.
He will be joined by KL Wong on drums, Grace Leong (piano) and Zulhilmy Zulkifli on bass. Tickets are priced at RM90 and still available on Jao Tim’s website at the time of writing.
Sid’s Pub at TTDI
34 Lorong Rahim Kajai 14
TTDI, Kuala Lumpur
Tel: 016-964 0786Another almost household name in the bar scene, the Sid’s group of pubs have been making their mark in Klang Valley. The Taman Tun Dr Ismail branch has new management and serves up some great Irish-themed pub grub, live sports and of course, music on Sundays, with Mark Renesh and Victor M. taking turns to get the crowds crooning and dancing. It kicks off early so be here from 7.30pm onwards to have a blast.
The Bertie & Bella
E-35-01, 3-Two Square,
2 Jalan 19/1, Petaling Jaya
Tel: 03-7665 9368With a name like The Bertie & Bella, footie fans would definitely know which team is supported here. But it’s more than just a football fan hangout, with a great selection of live music, an extensive menu and, of course, a great selection of cold drinks.
Wednesday: The Bandalorians duo of Kishmore and Reuben are up for the job of killing it on stage.
Friday: Veteran musicians Mary Jackson and Raymond Lim get up to hit all the right notes.
Saturday: Just one of them on stage is a treat, so get ready for a little magic when Gerard Singh teams up with Colin Jackson to get the party going.
Saints Bar
First Floor, 11-1
Jalan Sri Hartamas 7
Kuala Lumpur
Tel: 017-979 7148When it comes to themed bars, there’s plenty around but Saints does things a little different by paying homage to a group of educators.
The Saints Bar pays homage to the Lasallian community in Malaysia: Brothers, teachers, students – past, present, future and the forgotten.
The bar also celebrates the contributions of the La Salle Brothers to education in Malaysia and there is a nifty series of paintings on the wall of various La Salle institutions in Malaysia, including St John’s Institution in Kuala Lumpur.
Wednesday: Riza and Acha take on the live sessions for some music to brighten the midweek blues.
Friday: Arab and Badar are two musicians who need no introduction to regulars as they have been perfecting their art over the years – they hit the stage on Friday nights.
On Line Pub
32 Jalan SS20/10
Damansara Kim, Petaling Jaya
Tel: 03-7728 0532The one and only Temple of Rock continues to thrill nightlife enthusiasts as it shows a whole new generation how to get it right with a mix of pub grub, chilled beers and loud music.
Three nights of music a week for now, but what a selection the boys behind the bar serve up.
Thursday: Troubadour Tam gets into the groove with his raspy vocals, and inimitable folksy style. Expect nice downtempo ballads to mix up with more rocking acoustic tunes and a whole load of fun thrown in on top.
Friday: Kdee and Man take the stage from 9pm onwards, serving up a taste of yesteryear for the punters of today.
Expect golden oldies and maybe a touch of the 1980s and 1990s added to the mix.
Saturday: On Line comes alive as the Temple of Rock kicks it into high gear, albeit on an acoustic note.
Inimitable, and irrepressible, rocker Sharin swaps his electric axe for a more toned down acoustic guitar. Joining him on stage is his “Rockustic” partner-in-crime Al Hafiz to set the night on fire.
Elephant Rock TTDI
26A, First Floor
Jalan Datuk Sulaiman,
TTDI, Kuala Lumpur
Another spot for great fusion food and chilled vibes in the heart of Taman Tun Dr Ismail’s commercial hub, Elephant Rock offers a great night out for all. It’s “gin’o’clock” here till 8pm daily so get ready for some great deals with a selection of interesting cocktails on offer.Saturday: Gerard Anthony brings his guitar and distinctive voice to the stage at Elephant Rock for a night of musical magic.
Crane KL
78, Jalan Sultan, KL
WhatsApp: 013-218 5712
Website: cranekl.comAnother Chinatown hotspot, Crane KL is all about a good time in a heritage building. Good selection of cocktails and great food add to the charm of the ambience here. Also features a great selection of music from Wednesday to Saturday.
Saxophonist Julian Chan will be bringing his grooves to Jao Tim in the heart of Chinatown on Thursday.
Sharin takes the stage solo at The Saints Bar on Monday nights. On Saturdays, he teams up with drummer Al Hafiz for their ‘rockustic’ night at On Line Pub.
Gerard Singh is a familiar face in the nightlife scene and will be kicking it up a notch for music fans.
