i-City brightens up Malaysia
Wonderland attraction: Many have been captivated by i-City’s vibrant and colourful lights on its property.
Malaysia’s city of digital lights, i-City, has been listed in the top 25 of the most bright and colourful places in the world by CNN.
The urban development located in Shah Alam, Selangor, made the 21st spot in the list, joining the ranks of globally renowned locations led by Australia’s Great Barrier Reef which came in first.
Other top locations in the list include Holland’s tulip fields (13th), Rio de Janeiro in Brazil (16th), Times Square in New York (23) and Venice (25).
“i-City in Selangor, is a peculiar blend of a hi-tech development centre and an amusement park that includes an ice palace called the Snowalk, where the indoors is kept at freezing temperatures to preserve chambers of ice lit with coloured lights,” the CNN list read.
“In the evenings, outdoors in the tropical heat, millions of twinkling lights illuminate the trees in every artificial colour imaginable.
“It’s a Christmas yard display amped up to the nth degree,” the list said.
The 25 locations selected, said CNN, were places where nature’s palette concocts colours that seem unreal, or where designers have turned ordinary neighbourhoods into wonderlands.
In response, i-City said it welcomed the accolade which has now put it firmly on the global stage.
“It is very much an honour to receive the accolade as one of the world’s most colourful places in the world together with beautiful cities such as Cape Town, Tokyo, Argentina, Italy and France.
“A convergence of both technology and art, the digital lightscapes showcase will constantly be updated according to themes and festive celebrations,” the i-City statement said.
Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) president Datuk Hamzah Rahmat said the listing was good news for Malaysia’s tourism industry.
“It’s not easy to get in such a list and the accolade given to i-CIty also shows the big role that the private sector in Malaysia plays in helping to promote tourism in our country,” he said.
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Civil servant Anisyuhada Zulkifle, 29, said she first visited i-City as a university student and was captivated by the colourful lights.
“The lights there are simply beautiful beyond words. Not only are the trees covered in lights, they also have lights shaped like flowers, so it’s very unique,” she said.
A graduate student, who only wanted to be known as Fatin, said i-City was also enjoyable for its many attractions.
“I don’t like taking pictures that much, but the sights at i-City are a unique experience that you won’t forget easily,” said Fatin.
The list can be accessed at http://edition.cnn.com/travel/article/worlds-most-bright-colorful-places/index.html
~News courtesy of The Star~
Unwind in Cyberjaya
CHILLING in a chic yet rustic lounge overlooking a beautiful lawn is the main attraction of Karma Bar & Lounge at the Cyberview Resort & Spa in Cyberjaya.
Opened in January, Karma is replacing Atap that had served the hotel guests for the past 12 years.
It is also equipped with air-conditioners and has been expanded to serve up to 160 people in its indoor and alfresco areas.
The high dark wood ceiling coupled with glass panels lent an airy grandeur to the place.
Besides an extensive selection of alcoholic beverage including house specials with names like Karma Tera Bytes and Good Broadband, the menu also features light snacks.
House music is played while a garden party featuring an international deejay will be held once a month.
For reservation, call 03-8312 7000 or visit www.karma-lounge.my
~Info courtesy of The Star~
KLCC area still a big draw for dance music fans
The KLCC area marks one of the busiest clubbing stretches in town, with major clubs dotting Jalan Ampang, Jalan P. Ramlee, Jalan Pinang, Jalan Kia Peng and Jalan Sultan Ismail.
ZOUK
113, Jalan Ampang, KL
Zouk KL gives you a taste of everything. Here’s what’s on offer over most of the rooms on a weekly basis.
TUESDAYS at ZOUK: Ghetto Heaven with the best quality hip hop, R&B and urban grooves played by residents DJ Luqe and DJ Face with MC Carleed and MC Poi with regular international guests! Admission (with one drink): RM18. Ladies Complimentary entry with five drinks before midnight.
WEDNESDAYS AT VELVET UNDERGROUND: The Original Mambo Jambo. Velvet Underground takes you back to the 80’s and 90’s with DJ Ken and Radzi. Admission (with one drink): RM30.
THURSDAYS AT ZOUK, PHUTURE: 4PLAY: One mammoth party every Thursday with the best in every genre over four rooms. Zouk: R&B and hip hop, with DJs Goldfish, Luqe and Ken with MC Point Blanc. Phuture: Mambo favourites with DJs Radzi and Ken. Admission (with one drink): RM18 Ladies / RM28 Men.
THURSDAYS AT VELVET UNDERGROUND: THE DEEPHOUSE SOCIETY with our own DJ Gabriel. Gabriel’s 22-year passion for both house and techno has become a lifestyle choice so compelling that drove him to create TheDeepHouseSociety (DHS). The main objective behind this digital label is to connect, expand & expose. The label’s goal is to position TheDeepHouseSociety as a lifestyle brand and with the help of Zouk Club KL, Gabriel will showcase the musical offering DHS has to offer on a weekly basis. Admission (with one drink): RM18 Ladies / RM28 Men.
FRIDAYS AT ZOUK: GLOBAL keeps the spirit of all things on the EDM scene alive and kicking. Resident Terence C will keep the dance floor packed all night long with progressive house, trance and allsorts. International guests regularly! Admission (allows access to Zouk and Barsonic) (with one drink): RM38 Ladies / RM48 Men.
FRIDAYS AND SATURDAYS AT PHUTURE: FLAVA lets you party all weekend in Phuture with the best in R&B and hip-hop featuring DJs Luqe, Radzi and MC Fendi. Admission (with one drink): RM38 Ladies / RM48 Men.
FRIDAYS AND SATURDAYS AT VELVET: F.A.B. Fabulous and Bold: takes you to 90s and noughties territory. Think Ace of Base, Technotronic, C+C Music Factory, Blur, Nirvana, Vanilla Ice right through to Destiny¹s Child, Spice Girls, N*Sync, Gwen Stefani, Daft Punk and Groovejet. Residents Ken, Pietro and MC Point Blanc. (with one drink): RM38 Ladies / RM48 Men
FRIDAYS AT BARSONIC: TWILIGHT ACTIONGIRL weekly with music mayhem and madness as usual going for indie, alternative and electro vibes. DJs Bunga, Ribut 10:49, Chaseylain and Xu preside as usual, with surprise guests galore. Admission (with one drink): RM20 Ladies / RM30 Men.
SATURDAYS AT ZOUK: LOUD Goldfish and Blink.If you dig the BIG ROOM sounds of Deadmau5, Swedish House Mafia, Laidback Luke, David Guetta, Calvin Harris, Eric Prydz, Groove Armada, Faithless, The Crookers, this is for you. Admission: (allows entry to Zouk and Barsonic) (with one drink): RM38 Ladies / RM48 Men.
SATURDAYS AT BARSONIC: SUPERSONIC goes electro, indie, mash-ups, house with a rotation of Djs. This month: 4th OMFG with Guru & Mr Nasty / 11th Lap Sap & Co / 18th STLD with Mr Nasty, Guru Guru and Blastique / 25th House This with Hypembeats, Jee Hoe and Blink. Admission (with one drink): RM20 Ladies / RM30 Men.
For reservations please Please call +603-2171 2075 (12-6pm) / +6016-332 3191 (after 6pm) or email rsvn@zoukclub.com.my . For information call Zouk KL at 03-2171 1997 /fax: 03-2171 1998 or visit www.zoukclub.com.my
ARISTO @ ZOUK
113, Jalan Ampang, KL
Essentially part of the Zouk complex and family. For information call Zouk KL at +603-2171 1997 /fax: +603-2171 1998 or visit www.zoukclub.com.my
SULTAN LOUNGE
Mandarin Oriental, Kuala Lumpur
Kuala Lumpur City Centre, KL
True to it’s name, guests will have a feel being in an opulent Arabian tent with tented private booths, luxurious drapings surrounding the lounge along and an impressive triple-height water feature that overlooks a glassy opaque bar to top it off! Watch this space for updates. Admission (with one drink) is RM50. Telephone +603-2380 8888 Facsimile +603-2380 8833. Website: www.mandarinoriental.com
7ATENINE
Ascott Kuala Lumpur, 9, Jalan Pinang, KL
Fine dine at the Ascot and chill-out with live sunset jazz, international DJs and enjoy fabulous deals on premium wines and cocktails. White Nite @ 7atenine enhances your Saturday nights. Guests dressed in white enjoy a Martini cocktail “Bootylicious” on the house. Party the night away with the ethereal chill-out feel perfectly complemented by the white décor. This Saturday’s guest DJ is the ever eclectic Mr Fluff. For reservations, call +603-2161 7789, +6012-210 3055.
THE MARKETPLACE
4A, Lorong Yap Kwan Seng, KL
Restaurant and Lounge for clubbers who like a little of both dinner and drinks later. h: Tue to Thur: noon to 1am. Fri: noon to 2am. Sat: 5pm to 2am. Sun 4pm to midnight. Call +603-2166 0750. E-mail: marketplace.my@gmail.com | Website: www.marketplacekl.com
POPPY COLLECTION
18-1, Jalan P. Ramlee, KL
Located at the corner of Jalan. P. Ramlee and Jalan Law Yew See opposite Jalan Pinang and the Twin Towers the complex has four rooms but we concentrate on Passion upstairs and Poppy Garden downstairs.
POPPY GARDEN: R&B and hip hop with soul for the most part, with regular international guests both house/techno and R&B/hip hop. Fri & Sat: Soul Seduction. Thur: Soul Sista and Ladies Night. Free entry for groups of five before 10.30pm.
PASSION: Goes the house music route on Fridays and Saturdays. Admission (with one drink) is RM35 weekends. Hours: Sun to Thur: 4pm to 2am. Fri & Sat: 4pm to 3am. Parties start 9pm onwards. Contact: +603-2141 8888 / +603-2171 6666 fax: +603-2148 1282/ +603-2161 1948. E-mail: info@poppy-collection.com | Website: www.poppy-collection.com
LUNA BAR & CRISTALLO
33rd Flr, Menara Panglobal, Jalan Punchak, off Jalan P Ramlee, KL
The rooftop bar club with the swimming pool that has impressed many a visiting international DJ keeps the club music flowing. From May 16 to June 30, special guest resident comes from UK. Random Geeza has had an everlasting affection and connection to the house scene from the early acid house, Manchester rave scene, right through to the present day. Normal admission (with one drink): RM50 after 9.30pm. h: 5pm to 1am. Tue to Fri & Eve of Public Holidays: 5pm to 3am. Sat: 10am to 3am Sundays & Public Holidays - 10am to 1am. Call +603-2332 7777 for admission information.
TINMINE II
Lower Lobby, Crowne Mutiara Hotel, Jalan Sultan Ismail, KL
IT’s back, after over THREE decades and however many incarnations, the name, the venue returns.
NEO LUXE LOUNGE & RESTAURANT
19, Jalan Sultan Ismail, KL
Indulge yourself with sensuous global tapas, designer cocktails & avant garde lounge music.
KL LIVE @ LIFE CENTRE
20, Jalan Sultan Ismail, KL
This multi-thousand capacity venue has had many an incarnation over the past decade, most famously as Warp Club and Ruumz. Now just called KL Live, get set for a host of independent Club events being hosted at this longstanding venue. Details as events come and go.
SKYBAR
33rd Flr, Traders Hotel, KLCC, off Jalan Kia Peng, KL
SkyBar’s contemporary setting provokes in guests an instant and irresistible desire to just chill out. Guests can gaze at the glow from the illuminated towering twin towers while listening to ‘straight chill’ and upbeat music. Guest DJs feature regularly. h: Sun to Thur: 11am to 1am. Fri & Sat: 11am to 3am. Call +603-2332 9888 for information.
THE APARTMENT DOWNTOWN
Lot G48 & 139, Grd & 1st Flr, Suria KLCC, KL
For information call +603-2166 2257 or e-mail theapartmentklcc@chaswood.com. Website: www.atheapartment.com
ALOHA CLUB BISTRO & VIP LOUNGE
Lot 924, Jln P. Ramlee, KL
This 30,000 square foot mega-club has 3½ levels consisting of a dance club, bistro & restaurant and an exclusive VIP Lounge.
Oahu Bar: 1st & 2nd Floor - VIP Lounge sees DJ Ken and DJ Ben seven days a week playing commercial hits covering the past four decades.
Honolulu Bar: Lower ground. DJs Marc Antoine and Jinggo Bilboa play R&B, hip hop and house from Wed to Sun. Hula Nite (ladies nite) every Wed with free entrance for all the ladies and free cocktail.
~News courtesy of The Star~
Orchestra for charity
The Rotary Club of Shah Alam is hosting the Dama Orchestra Performance “The Moon Speaks For My Heart” on Friday at 8.30pm at Pentas 1, KLPac, to raise funds for charity projects. For tickets, call James Wong 03-2148 8968/ Soon Ee Hooi 012-3399 466.
~News courtesy of The Star~
Musical magic after dark
AFTER a long hard day at work, there are few things better than kicking up your heels, relaxing with a long, cold drink and enjoying the sweet sounds of music, especially if it happens to be played live.
ALEXIS BISTRO AMPANG
Lot 10 & 11, Great Eastern Mall, Kuala Lumpur.
Tel: 03-4260 2288
If you’re ever tired of Top 40 hits or old school rock’n’roll, then Alexis is probably the best place to check out. Jazz takes centre stage here, but only on Friday and Saturday.
LAILA’S CAFE LOUNGE
B-7-1, Block B, Plaza Kelana Jaya, Jln SS7/13A, PJ.
Tel: 03-7877 6787
Laila’s is a great place to kick back and relax and the best part is there’s something special going on here almost every week. Great music to be had here with a selection of guest artistes lined up. Sunday nights are particularly memorable with some great relaxed vibes.
OVO LIVE BISTRO
Terrace Level, Up Town 2, No 2, Jln SS21/37, Damansara Uptown.
Tel: 03-7725 2288
Ovo is the latest addition to the bustling nightlife industry and promises a touch of something different for a night out. It’s not just a nightspot but a full-fledged restaurant as well, with a wide selection of various cuisines to pick from. There’s a great line-up of music to choose from next week.
Mon: Cool Gang
Tues: Touch Mahal
Wed: E6
Sun: Talent experiment
RAINFOREST SPORTS BAR
C4.07, Lvl 4, Pavilion KL, Jln Bukit Bintang, KL
Tel: 03-2163 0163
Looking for a place to chill out in the heart of the city? Well, the Rainforest is a good bet as it is right in the heart of the Bukit Bintang area. Now, there is more on offer with a mix of live music thrown in to the mix.
Thurs: Mark Renesh
Fri: Victor & Mark Renesh
Sat: Artstream
CHILLOUT BISTRO & RESTAURANT
G31, Ground Floor, Subang Parade, Subang.
Tel: 03-5635 5508
Another great addition for those in the Subang area. A great selection of food complements the nightly entertainment which ranges from bands to a deejay spinning some great grooves. Currently, local legend Bala hits the stage here on Wednesday nights and there is a lot more to offer with live music almost every day.
Mon: Ice, Vishnu & Mizan
Tues: Bongga Bongga
Wed: Allan G Trio
Thurs: Bongga Bongga
Fri & Sat: Freedom
LA RAMBLA
B-0-15, Megan Avenue 2, 12, Jalan Yap Kwan Seng, KL
Tel: 03-2161 3010
For some great music in the heart of the city, be sure to drop by La Rambla, which also serves up some great food to go with the after-dark vibes. Right now, the outlet boasts a good collection of musicians.
Monday: Clifford Jay & Jason Noah
Tues: Charles Barnabas & Alya
Wed: Mizan:
Thurs: Vishnu
Fri: Alphabeat
Sat: Ashik
ARTISTA RESTAURANT & BAR
G-13, Tropicana City Mall, 3, Jln SS20/27, PJ
Tel: 03-7710 6585
PJ’s newest mall also boasts one of PJ’s newest pubs that features live music. Pretty cool place to kick back and relax to the sounds of some great acts.
MANDOLIN
C5-1 & C6-1, Plaza Glomac, Jalan SS7/19, Kelana Jaya, PJ.
New kid on the block Mandolin recently opened its doors, offering another outlet for live music fans in Petaling Jaya. So far, some great acts like The Union and Big Game have already taken the stage here. Music will be on offer seven nights a week at Mandolin so watch this space to find out more about who’s going to be taking the mic at the outlet.
Mon: Big Game with Mary Jackson
Tues: Alphabeat
Wed: Small Stones
Thurs: Strollers 2
Fri: The Union
Sat: Five & Dime
Sun: Touch Mahal
ONLINE
32, Jalan SS20/10, Damansara Kim, Petaling Jaya.
Tel: 03-7728 0532
It has been 21 years but the boys at Online show no signs of slowing down so be ready for a blast. Friendly owners and a friendly crowd all add up to a great night out when you party at Online.
Mon: Shahrin Band Trio
Tues: Muzza & Din
Wed: Vishnu
Thurs: Mizan
Fri: David Mark
Sat: The Corn Cake Kings: Julian Mokhtar & Aznan Aziz
Sun: Crow
CJ’S BISTRO
D 37-01, Dataran 3 Two Square, Jln 19/1, PJ.
Tel: 012-306 1769 (CJ)
It’s back but with a slightly different name. Ceejay’s used to be one of the better spots in town to check out some live music and the new outlet doesn’t disappoint. Expect some great bands to hit the stage. Still a hotspot for some great partying with great bands and some good stuff from the kitchen. Sunday nights are extra special with Clinton and the Revolution throwing open the floor for anyone to come in and jam with the band.
Tues: Quiz Night followed by Mizan
Wed: Artstream with Suresh
Thurs:Alleycats
Fri: Malaysian Requlars
Sat: Hydra
Sat: Revolution
BACKYARD PUB & GRILL
26/28, Jalan Sri Hartamas 8, Kuala Lumpur
Tel: 03-6201 0318
Mention Backyard and live music will definitely be one of the first things to come to mind. That and, of course, a good selection of food and a great venue to catch up on some live sports on the tube. Next Tues (May 24) there’s something special brewing with Peter Dickson performing on stage.
Tues: Artstream
Wed: Bongga Bongga
Thurs: Albert, Badar, Azmi, Aj & Russell
Fri: Blister
Sat: Big Band
Sun: Raymond Chia
THE REEF
78, Jln Burhanuddin Helmi, Taman Tun Dr Ismail
Still going strong with hefty doses of music, good drinks to help wash them down, and, of course, some great food from the kitchen. As an extra treat, Five & Dime performs every third Thursday of the month.
Tues: Ashik
Wed: Roland Choi
Thurs: The Union
Fri: Revolution
SPARX
29, Jalan Bukit 11/2, PJ
Tel: 03-7954 2490
New kid on the block Sparx is housed in a familiar venue. However, it’s an entirely different team at the outlet so there have been some changes to the bands playing here.
Mon: In Fuzion
Tues: Sons of Adam
Wed: Heavy Machine
Thurs: D ‘All Frenz
Fri: Alleycats
Sat: Chemistry
Sun: Cool Gang
HARD ROCK CAFE
Ground Floor, Wisma Concorde, Jalan Sultan Ismail, KL
Tel: 03-2715 5555
Hard Rock Cafe has always lived up to its reputation of serving up some great music and next week will be no different. Legendary local band May will be reuniting for a special performance on May 29 in conjunction with the bands 25th anniversary. Cover charge is RM50.
OL’SKOOL BISTRO
Jalan Gasing, Petaling Jaya.
Seven nights of live music? Who could ask for more, especially since this place caters to the retro crowd with bands playing some of the best sounds from the 60s, 70s, 80s and even the 90s. Bands like The Stroller’s 2, Heavy Machine and Broken Pieces have all played here and do come back for regular repeat appearances.
Mon: Vernon & Fats
Tues: Broken Pieces
Wed: The Wow Factor
Thurs: Os Pombos
Fri: Zarsadias Brothers
Sat: Heavy Machine
Sun: Small Stones
CAFE SPORTIVO
346, Jalan S2 B8, Uptown Avenue, Seremban 2
Tel: 06-601 5559
Get a dose of some great music down south with the latest nightspot to hit Seremban. A decent group of musicians regularly hit the stage at this sports bar so the next time you’re in Seremban, check them out. You can also keep up with them on Facebook by searching for Cafe Sportivo Seremban.
Mon: Sherman Tan
Tues: Mary Jackson & Raymond Chia
Wed: Zarsadias Brothers
Thurs: Nature Ground
Fri: HypnoRush
Sat: Adagietto
MONKEY BAR
Level 10, Legend Hotel KL, The Mall, Jalan Putra, KL
Tel: 03-4042 9888 ext 1027
The Monkey Bar has a long pedigree and has been in the business for quite some time. A laid-back chill out venue for some great fun. Currently, Revive perform here every night, except on Sundays.
WAIKIKI BAR
First Floor,
Kelab Syabas, Lorong Sultan, PJ.
This place is a Petaling Jaya institution and would be a familiar name to many. Every Sunday, join in for a great jam session with some of the scene’s veteran acts with Five and Dime taking the stage from 10pm.
Mon: Hydra
Tues: Acoustica
Wed: Acoustic Foreplay
Thurs: Juanophobia
Fri: Bala
Sat: Acoustica
Sun: Jam Sessions with Five and Dime
～News courtesy of The Star～
New outlets add to the thrill of a night out in Bukit Bintang
The touch of downtown central is expanding — time to check out Bukit Bintang with more new outlets to test out.
BEDROOM KL
6th Floor, Pavilion, Jalan Bukit Bintang, KL
On the uppermost retail floor in Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, with a view of KLCC through huge crystalline windows, is a place where
KL-ites flock to when the sun sets, to lounge, meet, sip, and to be slightly naughty. The place is the Bedroom, where the style is comfortable, chic and never pretentious.
TUESDAYS: MR Fluff and Mixx Tina. Inaugural Choons Award Producer of the year 2009 Mr Fluff also goes by the moniker Recovery.
WEDNESDAYS: The Donn. Don was famed as one of Singapore’s 10 most influential men in Music.
THURSDAYS: Ray Soo, Love International’s founder’s unique and quirky sense of electronic house music has taken him the world over, swerving from minimal to maximal house and techno via the freshest style-defining sounds from a multifaceted landscape of influences from around the world.
FRIDAYS: The Donn. From his appointments as Heineken Music sound advisor to his engagement as music director for the Singapore Fashion Festivals since 2007, Don specializes as a music tastemaker by strength and a driver towards the growth of Singapore’s underground cultivation.
SATURDAYS: Various guests pllaying the latest in electronica.
ELIXIR
37 & 39, Changkat Bukit Bintang, KL
For those seeking a chic nightspot to hangout, consider this lounge club which opened last year. Boasting a sexy décor that’d be apt for burlesque showcases (but alas, you’ll not find such racy entertainment here), the overall ambience is remarkably more sophisticated. .
THEME NIGHTS
WEDNESDAY: Ladies night — Creme de La Soul with DJ Ash (R&B)
THURSDAY: Ladies night — Seduction (Mambo-J)
FRIDAY: House with DJ Chris Olivia & DJ Rekha.
SATURDAY: House with DJ Chris Olivia & DJ Marco.
LUST
L1-3-5, Office Tower, Jalan Nagasari (opp Istana Hotel), KL
New-kid-on-the-block situated behind Hotel Istana and next to ParkRoyal Serviced Suites on Jalan Nagasari.
FRIDAY: LUST Presents A-Rox. Not content with just satisfying your lust for the highest quality music, we’re adding videos to send your senses into a frenzy. Taking your on this sensory roller coaster are KL’s pioneering DVJs, A-Rox. Meanwhile, Zoo Nite with Xu plays monthly on the last Friday of the month.
SATURDAY: MOVE n GROOVE featuring DJ Leonard T (SG). LUST bi-monthly party Move n Groove welcomes Singapore’s greatest musical export and retro legend DJ Leonard T. The former founding DJ of Zouk’s Velvet Wednesday retro night n Saturday nights takes the helm in LUST for his monthly residency at Move n Groove. Expect a musical roller coaster through the ages!
Entry is Free but tables are limited. For more info:- info@lustkl.com / www.lustkl.com or call +603-2142 0525 / +6016-284 6772
LAVA BAR
19, Jalan Berangan, off Changkat Bukit Bintang, KL
MIA rock Friday nights with techno Dirty Dutch, electroclash, indie, 80s New Wave, disco dance, electro and more starting this Friday at this new bar. Guest DJs tonight – DJ Raffy and DJ Shashy. Free Entry. For ENQUIRIES,RESERVATION and TABLE BOOKING, contact Joanne Gale +607-543 9422 / DJ Fareen +6012-204 2791.
REGGAE BAR @ CHANGKAT
31, Changkat Bukit Bintang, KL
Reggae@Changkat is a departure from the authentic Reggae Themed Bar. The ambience has a modern eclectic twist. A mixture of reggae, ragga, dancehall, R&B, hip hop, retro, soul-tree & house is spun to the pleasures of party goers. The second branch of KL’s legendary Reggae Bar (original on Jalan Tun H.S. Lee, Chinatown) seems to be cutting a swathe through Bukit Bintang.
ENVIE CLUB LOUNGE
14 & 16 Changkat Bukit Bintang, KL
Embodied in a chic French design, Envie boasts two floors of complete club-lounge experience. The 1st floor presents to you the luxuries of a main area, a cocktail bar, a dance area, and a VIP section for those of you who prefer a more private soiree. The Rooftop Garden is an open-air lounge terrace complete with its own bar for those who want to enjoy fresh air and the crisp evening breeze. A retractable roof ensures that your gorgeous ensembles are in no danger from unpredictable KL weather! As for the music:
WEDNESDAY: Revolutions with Dayshavoo and Tareeq. Mid week house night. Admission (with one drinks and after 11.30pm): RM20 (men) / RM10 (ladies).
THURSDAY: Lolita with Rex and Slick Vic. Ladies free entry all night men may RM20 (with onr drink).
FRIDAY goes Jooze with Augie and MC Sashi C Loco. Admission (with one drink): RM40 (men) after midnight. Ladies free entry.
SATURDAY: Tbeatfreaks with Rex and guest DJ. Admission (with one drink): RM40 (men) after 11pm. Tel: +603-2141 7380. e-mail: info@envieclublounge.com
FRANGIPANI RESTAURANT & BAR
25, Changkat Bukit Bintang, KL
The fine dining institution and upstairs bar club continues to be a strong attraction, featuring house music.
FRIDAY with DJ Sito and all things house with that seminal dab of Latin-tinged music flavours.
SATURDAY goes Straight Up with Tim Coates and friends with new tunes, grooving basslines and jackin’ rhythms in the realm of house music!
Tel: +603-2141 4300. e-mail: reservations@frangipani.com.my
TWENTYONE KITCHEN & BAR
21, Changkat Bukit Bintang, KL
Open seven days a week from noon onwards but from Wed to Sat it’s Lushouse with different house vibes and a rotation of guest Djs each night. Tel: +603-2142 0021/fax: +603-2141 0121. E-mail: info@twentyone.com.my Also check out the branch/outlet in Bangsar.
THE SOCIAL CHANGKAT
22, Changkat Bukit Bintang, KL
From the Social Bangsar to the Bukit Bintang branch, attracting a strong clientele. +603-2142 8260/fax: +603-2282 2260.
UPPER DKYM @ 2nd FLR DAIKANYAMA BAR & RESTAURANT
42, Changkat Bukit Bintang, KL
Ninja Nites at Daikanyama continues on Saturdays. Tomorrow sees DJs An, Madrush & Monsieur Atom. hotline +6012-971 0058; Outlet +603-2141 0323.
PALATE PALETTE
21, Jalan Mesui, off Jalan Nagasari, KL
An eclectic home for music, art, food, lounge and all sorts, open Tuesday to Sunday from noon onwards. Malaysia’s only psychedelic trance collective, EPIC TRIBE, host their parties here.
Call +603-2142 2148 or email su-ann@palatepalette.com / hello@palatepalette.com
OSCAR @ ISTANA HOTEL
West Wing, 1B Level, 73, Jalan Raja Chulan, KL
“Sexi Saturday “ : Dress to Impress .. Experience the Power Of Commercial Set with resident DJ Rommy and guest DJ Jaz turning up the bass line till the wee hours. No cover charge.
ROOTZ
Rooftop Lot 10 Shopping Centre, 50, Jalan Sultan Ismail, KL
With a capacity for over 400 people with two VIP Rooms, a main VIP floor, spacious dance floor and with one of the largest selections of champagne KL has to offer there is bound to be something for everybody. For table bookings please email info@rootz.com.my
Parking is available throughout Lot 10 shopping centre with valet service available at the Bon Ton entrance (off Jln Sultan Ismail). Access to the Rooftop is via the lifts situated at the Annexe Block, via the lifts from the Main shopping centre entrance at Dome or from the escalators on level 6 and 7 of the carpark.
LA BOMBA LATIN DANCE CLUB
Starhill Gallery, Jalan Bukit Bintang, KL
Located in the heart of the city for the hip and chic. Calling all Latin music lovers and dancers. Spinning the hottest Latin tracks is Venezuelan born DJ Martin Reyes. Every Friday from 9pm listen to the exotic and pumping beats of salsa, bachata and Reggaeton. Every Saturday is Mambo Africando and La Bomba plays host to the invigorating beats of World Music, Top 40s hits, Latin music, Afro-Cuban music and Afro house. Every Wednesdays La Bomba has free salsa classes for all those who want an introduction to this sexy Latin American dance. Call or sms +6017-302 7031 for reservations or information or visit www.labombakl.com
~News courtesy of The Star~
Little India plagued by problems beneath the facade
BARELY eight months has passed since Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak and his Indian counterpart Manmohan Singh launched the multi million ringgit ‘Little India’ in Brickfields, however, Kuala Lumpur’s latest iconic landmark is beginning to show signs of decay.
Residents in Brickfields are blaming the condition on traders and eatery joints in the vicinity, claiming that the operators are not taking proper care of the place.
Others say Little India is suffering the effects of a rushed job.
Never-ending: Congestion in Brickfields due to double-parked vehicles.
A resident who spoke on condition of anonymity said oil and grime had already seeped into the tiles on the five-foot way of the RM35mil project as restaurants lining the five-foot way were placing tables and chairs there.
“Not only are the tiles dirty from the food and drinks spilt on the floor, but they (restaurant operators) are denying the public their right of way,’’ she said, adding that the tactile block for the visually handicapped was completely blocked by chairs and tables.
Another resident who only wished to be identified as Uncle Siva, said apart from the tiles which were already showing signs of ageing, the shops and restaurants were also responsible in rubbish being thrown indiscriminately all over the place.
“Rubbish bins have been provided, but people are not throwing their garbage inside the bins, but merely dumping it beside the bins. They expect Alam Flora workers to do it,’’ he said.
A check by StarMetro showed the colours of the Palava-inspired columns or pillars fronting both sides of Little India were fading, while some of the pillars had their stones chipped away.
Cracks were also found on plant boxes on the side of the road which had the words ‘Little India’.
In some areas, banners and bunting put up by store owners have faded and some were torn, while illegal posters have been pasted on walls by the sides of the shops.
The most disturbing sight was the rubbish littered all over the place.
It was thrown in front of the shops and near backlane of the stalls selling flowers and fruits.
The Jalan Tun Sambanthan pedestrian bridge was littered with rubbish along the steps and the walkway.
“On the surface Little India looks and feels grand — but without maintenance it won’t be long before it start falling apart,” said Palm Court Apartments resident M. Jeyasri.
“A lot of money has been spent to upgrade the area, at least there must be regular maintenance,’’ she added.
Another resident C.K. Leow said Little India is merely suffering the after effects of a rushed job.
“The reason why the paint is fading (from the pillars) is because the concrete was not allowed to dry properly before it was painted,’’ he said.
“Concrete must be allowed to dry for at least one month before it is painted — only then will the paint stay on longer,’’ added Leow.
Leow believes that contractors involved in the project did not do a good job as they were rushing to meet the deadline set by the Government.
Brickfields Rukun Tetangga chairman S.K.K. Naidu said Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) was offering free guided tours to tourists every Saturday, hence he advised the authority to monitor the cleanliness of the area. “It would be a shame if they (tourists) saw a dirty Little India,’’ he said.
Meanwhile congested traffic is still the order of the day as the scourge of double parking reigns supreme.
Despite regular enforcement by DBKL, people are still double and triple parking causing a major congestion day and night and the the situation is getting worse.
The residents are blaming the restaurant operators saying that by placing the tables and chairs outside their premises; they are encouraging people to park by the side of the road.
When contacted the Brickfields Business Council (BBC) said it should not be blamed for the condition that Little India was currently in.
BBC Secretary-general A. Karupiah defended its members by saying that the business operators made it a point to wash the area every night after they closed up.
Karupiah blamed the residents living in the shophouses above for not disposing of the rubbish properly.
“They (residents) refuse to throw the rubbish into the bins provided, and sometime scavengers looking for materials for recycling, often do not place the rubbish back into the bins once they are done collecting their materials,’’ he said.
On the operators placing tables and chairs on the five-foot way, Karupiah said that eating in the open air was a Malaysian habit that people loved.
“Besides, the rentals are high and the space inside the outlets are too small; they need to put the tables and chairs outside to make a living,’’ he said.
On the congestion caused by the restaurant patrons double and triple parking, Karupiah said: “We have advised the youths not to park there but they never listen, ’’ he said.
Karupiah said the DBKL had been informed to tow double-parked vehicles or those blocking traffic.
~News courtesy of The Star~
Five nights of great music
MOST of the time, live music at nightspots in the Klang Valley tends to lean towards rock and pop but there is a thriving jazz scene to be found.
This week, Mezze Lounge ups the ante for jazz afficianados with five nights of international quality jazz from Wednesday to Sunday.
On Wednesday, the ladies take centre stage with Rachel Guerzo and Izlyn Ramly taking turns to show off their prowess on the stage.
Thursday is another night dedicated to women with Junji Delfino and Maya turning up the heat with some great performances.
All set: Junji Delfino will be singing out at Mezze this week.
On Friday and Saturday night, the big bands come out to play with the early sets taken by the MJV Trio featuring Junji Delfino.
The headliners on both nights will be Jeremy Monteiro’s Organamix featuring Richard Jackson.
On Sunday, which is also Mother’s Day, be prepared for surprises as Mezze celebrates with a special jam session.
Other musicians who will be taking the stage during the five-night extravaganza include Michael Veerapen, Daniel Veerapen, Wan Azfarezal, So Wen Ming and Rick Smith.
Famed local jazz pianist Michael Veerapen was appointed as the music director at Mezze in 2010 and he has certainly lived up to expectations with a long list of both local and foreign jazz stars making their way to the stage at Mezze.
This might be the first mini-festival at the outlet but there will definitely be more good stuff to come so watch this space for more details.
Mezze is located at 132, Jalan Kasah, Medan Damansara. For more information, call 03-2095 0122 or visit www.mezze.com.my.
~News courtesy of The Star~
