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Sunday
May052013

New Album: in the deep night/electric poetry (2013)

[Latest News on the album]

1. Get the new album today:

Buy the album online: http://azsamad.bandcamp.com/album/in-the-deep-night-electric-poetry 

CDs Available at:
Candor  Music  at  Solaris  Dutamas,  KL
Sixstrings  at  Aman  Suria,  PJ
Merdekarya  at  Petaling  Garden,  PJ
Toccata  Studio  at  SS2,  PJ  
Drumstore at Paradigm Mall, PJ

2. From Juice Revolver Sessions #2: Az Samad & Darren Ashley (Excerpt)
Thank you Albert Ng for the video!
 


3. Check out the album launch photos & videos (May 28 2013)

FB Event Page: https://www.facebook.com/events/627582917256720/

Were you at the launch? Check out whether you're in the photos & tag yourself and your friends!
Photos by Tang Chun Cheuh (Facebook Photo Album)
Photos by Yin (Facebook Photo Album) 

Video from kakiseni.com's Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=509601582428267

Video courtesy of Wong Horng Yih:


Video from FZ.com: In The Deep Night / Electric Poetry with Az Samad

3. Listen to an exclusive track & read an interview on ISSUE Magazine #12: Magic: http://issuemagazine.wordpress.com/2013/05/12/the-main-thing-is-to-write-an-interview-with-az-samad-by-lutfi-hakim/

4. New Video from Amrita Soon's Treehouse Open Mic:

Amrita Soon invited me to perform at her Treehouse Open Mic as Featured Act. One of the songs I played was an improvised piece based on the request of the audience at Paradox Art Cafe.

This time they asked for a Penguin...lost in Africa! How creative and what fun. =)  

5. Liger in Kepong

This was at The Bee, Moonshine & The Bee presents Feedback Open Mic Jaya One June Edition.

At the suggestion of the audience, I improvised a piece about a Liger in Kepong. 
Thanks to Nabilah Muzaffar for suggesting the liger!

[Press]  


The Star - Electric Az orchestra (June 21 2013)
BFM 89.9FM - That Music Show: Electric Poetry (June 11 2013)
WAMM - FREE Electric Guitar Showcase & Workshop by Az Samad at The Guitar Store (June 7 2013)
WAMM - Theremin & Electric Guitar Improvisation by Ng Chor Guan and Az Samad (June 5 2013)
FZ.com - On the spot with Az Samad (June 3 2013)

The Edge Financial Daily - 1  new  release  worth  checking  out In  the  Deep  Night/Electric  Poetry (May 31 2013)
TimeOutKL - Free electric guitar workshop by Az Samad (May 30 2013)
Kakiseni - Electric Guitar Showcase & Workshop by Az Samad (May 30 2013)
The Malay Mail - Soundtrack for your thoughts (May 30 2013)
Rentak Sejuta - IN DEEP WITH THE ELECTRIC POET
 (May 29 2013)
I.M Magazine - FREE workshop - Improv, soloing and more
(May 29 2013)
Rentak Sejuta - Press Launch Coverage
(May 29 2013)
Gawdeepah - JOM!: THE BIG FISH AND AZ SAMAD'S [IN THE DEEP NIGHT/ELECTRIC POETRY] ALBUM LAUNCH (May 28 2013)
WAMM - FREE electric guitar showcase/workshop at Music Master Studio by Az Samad
(May 28 2013)
The New Straits Times - Az’s album launch party
(May 28 2013)
Vernonchan.com - Az Samad to Launch 8th Solo Album “in the deep night/electric poetry”
(May 27 2013)
The Sun Daily - Az Samad 'In the deep night/electric poetry' album Launch Party
 (May 26 2013)
The Star, Metro - Guitarist Az Samad plugs in and prepares to crank up the volume on his new album (May 25 2013)
TimeOutKL - Az Samad [in the deep night/electric poetry] Album Launch (May 23 2013)
WAMM - Album Launch Party: in the deep night/electric poetry by Az Samad (May 22 2013)
I.M. Magazine - You're Invited To... See you on 28 May! (May 22 2013)
Kakiseni - Az Samad [in the deep night/electric poetry] Album Launch (May 18 2013) 
WAMM - FREE Solo Electric Guitar Showcase/Workshop at Drumstore, Paradigm Mall, PJ by Az Samad
 (May 16 2013)
I.M. Magazine - FREE showcase-workshop at Drumstore, PJ
 (May 16 2013)
ISSUE Magazine - “The main thing is to write.” An interview with Az Samad by Lutfi Hakim (May 15 2013) 
I.M. Magazine - Free for you, Love is a Scooter
 (May 13 2013)
WAMM - New Video and FREE Song Download: Love is a Scooter by Az Samad (May 10 2013)

[What people have been saying about the album] 

"Guitarist Az Samad has done it again with his solo album "in the deep night/electric poetry," achieving a stunning mix of virtuosic technique, creative improvisation, and sonic discovery. The album takes us through a meditative exploration of sound, each song a new story told directly through the guitar. Sit back, close your eyes, and enjoy this beautiful musical journey from beginning to end." 

Carrie Jahde, Drummer, Composer, and Educator 

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 "in the deep night/electric poetry" Mr. Az Samad achieved a unspoken words of sounds with great compositions and fearless journey into a new world form of expressions through his ideas that gives me an inspiring feeling to create an imaginary world of sounds, magnificent creation...” 

Valtinho Anastácio, Vocalist & Percussionist 

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"I always love hearing Az’s new musical explorations and in this release he takes the listener on a wonderfully engaging series of improvisations – if you enjoy sweet sounding arpeggiated chords, looped textural guitars and introspective melodies then you’ll love this collection!" 

Stuart Ryan, Fingerstyle Guitarist/Acoustic Columnist, Guitar Techniques. 

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“Az Samad's new CD, "In the Deep Night / Electric Poetry" is a dreamer's paradise of contemplative meditation and thoughtful reflections . My favorite track is "Asteroid" as it portrays the ethereal emotions at the heart of this recording. With abstracted harmonies, slowly paced rhythms, ringing tones and subtle dissonances, Az's solo guitar embraces the peaceful beauty of traversing the omniverse while looking out across dimensions of both time and space, admiring the inherent wonder of the universe in which we are all an integral part.” 

Garrison Fewell, Author, Educator, Composer-Improviser 

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“These ethereal songs paint the listener with starlight. Songs of the mind and spirit, they allow us to experience the majesty of space and the depths of the heart.” 

Omar Musa, poet and rapper 

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"Guitarist Az Samad's latest album, ‘in the deep night/electric poetry’, is a masterpiece of different moods and textures on electric guitar. While listening I found myself thinking many of the tracks would make great music for a film. A personal favorite for me is the emotive track, Chorale.” 

Anton Emery, Celtic Fingerstyle Guitarist 

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"By combining melodic improvisation with generous use of effects and other sound tools, Az is able to create a listening experience that focuses on texture and atmosphere. This is music for poets, or maybe just for your inner poet." 

Mason Razavi, Guitarist-Composer 

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“Az Samad's new all electric guitar album, "in the deep night/electric poetry," is something I've been looking forward to for a while. Much of the first half of the album is very melodic, reflective and textural. It's as if you're sitting right in front of his guitar in the same room, listening to his fingers touch the strings, creating melodies, patterns and harmonics in a very close and personal way. If this was on vinyl and we were about to listen to side 2, Az begins by introducing new and exciting textures. This is where the ride takes a gentle turn, exploring new sonic territory. Progressively, things become more curious and visual, with the use of distortion, volume swells and other effects, all done in a tasteful way. All the while, Az displays a unique subtlety and sense of wonder, complimented by his proficiency on his instrument and his ability to present each piece with a fine precision. You always hear people says things like "this album sounds best through headphones" but I think this may really be one of those albums truly deserving of such a statement. Put on your headphones, and listen privately, and you will feel as though Az has created a personal soundtrack, just for you.” 

Eric Hausmann, Multi-Instrumentalist & Composer 

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"It has been my real pleasure to have known Az and his playing for about 8 years now, and to have witnessed the development of a uniquely distinctive style. Recently he’s been experimenting with looping and effects pedals, and this album bears testament to those explorations. 

The decision to record a whole album of solo electric guitar with no other instruments is very brave. Az has achieved the impossible here by creating something fresh and interesting that bears repeated listening. 

The album is split into two separate parts - more meditative chordal fingerstyle pieces, and others with overdubbed distorted jazz-rock solos and heavy use of effects. 

The first thing that strikes you is what a wonderfully recorded album this is. The Proteus guitar sounds beautiful, whether clean or heavily processed. Az’s choice of (and use) of effects is refreshing and incredibly effective. There are a great variety of tones and sounds, which provides constant surprise and interest. 
Some of the pieces develop into surprising directions over a short looped riff, others demonstrate Az’s inventive use of chords, and a harmonic sophistication that is always accessible but has a depth which bears repeated listening. 

As with much of Az’s music, what is astonishing is the degree to which it is freely improvised. Many of the pieces sound like they were fully written out before the recording, when in fact they just developed as the tape rolled. This is part of Az’s genius, and makes for fascinating music.

Personal favourites? I love the use of effects on the first and last tracks (An Open Mind and In the Hall of words), and Chorale is wonderful in its Frisell-esque simplicity. 

A tremendous album, which I’m going to enjoy listening to for a long time, thank you Az!" 

Dylan Kay, Guitarist-Educator 

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“Az's latest work is mind bending in an awe-electrifying way.” 

Patrick Lim, Founder of Greenroom136 

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"Electric Poetry" is just what it says. Soulful, like meditation done to you - but with an "open mind". From the contemplative musing on the space between the notes, to the intense angularity of sound, to the delicious quasi-3rd-Stream "chorale" you'll be transported into Az's exploratory & rich textured sound-world that is both stream of consciousness and considered attentive direction. You can hear him listening acutely to the process of becoming. This new voice of Az's is more about "being" than "doing" and the world needs it...Switch off the lights, & enjoy the invitation... 

Helen Sherrah Davies, 5-String Violinist, Composer, Assistant Professor at Berklee College of Music 

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"Az Samad is the kind of guitarist who can translate his acoustic style to an electric medium as an enhancement rather than an overstatement. We hear this in its purest form on the five new age tracks, all solo guitar, all statements of subtle flow. Of these, "Reflections on Water" presents hypnotic ostinati of tense and resolving chords, conceptually simple yet pulling us in with deep fascination. "Asteroid" feels stark with chord changes at unexpected intervals, beginning with the puzzled surprise of a first listen to Syd Barrett or early Lou Reed, and then resolving into a stately but unsettled progression as the arpeggios fill in. The five jazz and free improvisation tracks are seasoned with the rock flavor of electric guitar, two or sometimes three parts layered together via looping pedals. Of these, "In the Hall of Words" feels the most thematically complete, a rock groove emerging from a gentle bass-and-harmonics attack, with minor notes and pairs arriving on treble strings over the muted bass. These notes leave vapor trails of sustained, processed tone, building into a sad melody with real bite. If not for the drift into ragged and wavery, this piece could almost serve as a movie's closing theme. (There will, of course, be many, many sequels to that movie.)" 

Alan K. Lipton of Information Sickness 

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"Az Samad's intensely personal explorations (in the deep night/electric poetry) are evocative, lyrical, mystical and beautifully contemplative - reminiscent of long solitary walks through magical landscapes. His mastery and musical maturity are indisputable. Not an album you might want to dance to (unless you're a post-modern choreographer) but one you will most certainly enjoy living with and getting to know and love." 

Antares 

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"When discussing a largely instrumental record, the term 'lyrical' isn't one that you would expect to hear all that often. But when Az Samad plays his guitar, the sensitivity and seamlessness in his phrasing, it feels more like you are being serenaded by an otherworldy voice than listening to fingers dancing across six strings. It is absolutely lyrical. He is a true master of his craft, and this record presents yet another compelling reason as to why As Samad is one of Malaysia's most important musicians" 

Gabriel Lynch, Australian troubadour 

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"Listening to Az Samad’s In The Deep Of The Night/Electric Poetry Album is like watching a painter express his feelings on a blank canvas… you close your eyes and in the dark you can feel the expression of emotion like brushstrokes crafting your imagination. The guitar melodies and sounds are purposefully chosen to take the listener on an intimate, personal journey with the music." 

Jennifer Thompson, Malaysian Music Industry Activist & Event Producer

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"Like a proverbial chilli, the electric guitar adds sonic bite and newfound ambient textures to Az's noted melodic fingerstlying. Comforting and familiar like a old pair boots but with a new shine and added zest that makes a good companion for long journeys." 

Azmyl Yunor, Malaysian singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, academic and writer 

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"I must admit that I was quite surprised during the first listen. I own a few of Az Samad's previous albums and I have seen his performances. This album is completely different from my impression of his amazing finger style performances. He tells a story in a very simple and direct way without the flashier approach. A few simple chords going through effects pedals created a very poetic image, giving listeners endless space for imagination." 

Keith Tan Tyzz Chau, singer & songwriter for Platform 11 

______________

[The Tour]

In conjunction with my upcoming solo electric guitar album launch, I'm doing a mini-tour across Klang Valley where I will perform a short electric guitar set and combine this with a talk/workshop on the electric guitar.

In these events, you can hear some live music & learn more about the process behind the scenes. I'll explain how I use looping & share tips on how to improvise. 

_____________

[The Tour Dates]

Mon: March 25 : The Venue, Pavilion, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia | Open Mic #6 hosted by Az Samad | Featured Open Mic Acts: Jia Jia & Kien Lim | Sign-ups 7:30 PM Show 8:00 PM 

Mon, April 29 : The Venue, Pavilion, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia | Open Mic #7 hosted by Az Samad | Featured Open Mic Acts: Sharon Chong & Man Under Zero Effort | Sign-ups 7:30 PM Show 8:00 PM 

Sun, May 19: Drumstore, Paradigm Mall, Petaling Jaya | Solo Electric Guitar Showcase/Workshop | 8 PM | FB Event Page

Mon, May 20 : The Venue, Pavilion, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia | Open Mic #8 hosted by Az Samad feat. Khaimano & Bihzhu | Sign-ups 7:30 PM Show 8:00 PM 

Sat: Feb 23: May Readings @ Seksan Gallery, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia | Az Samad: Electric Guitar | 3:30PM-6PM | Free Admission

Tues, May 28: Merdekarya | Az Samad [in the deep night/electric poetry] Album Launch | 8:00 PM | Free Admission

Thurs, May 30: Moonshine: A Homemade Music Show | Az Samad Solo Guitar | 9:30 PM | Stonebay, Az Samad, Quirky Qwerty and Tilu 

Sat, June 1: Music Master Studio, Petaling Jaya | Solo Electric Guitar Showcase/Workshop | 8:00 PM | FB Event Page

Sat, June 8: Interview on BFM - That Music Show | 3:00 PM

Tues, June 11: The Bee, Jaya One, Petaling Jaya| Feedback Open Mic feat. Ray Cheong & Az Samad | Solo Electric Guitar

Thur, June 13: Rojak Sessions #5 | Merdekarya, Petaling Garden, PJ  

Fri, June 14: SPARTFEST 2013 @ Taylor's Lakeside | Open Mic Event | 8:00 PM

Sat, June 15: The Guitar Store, Cheras | Solo Electric Guitar Showcase/Workshop | 8:00 PM | FB Event Page

Tues, June 18: Merdekarya, Petaling Garden, PJ  | Az Samad Solo Guitar | 8:00PM Open Mic | 9:00 PM Show

Fri, June 21: The Whiteaways Arcade, (Lot22a, Lebuh Pantai) | Az Samad Solo Electric Guitar | Asia By Asians Exhibit for Obscura Festival | 9:00 PM

Sat, June 22: Az Samad Solo Electric Guitar Showcase/Workshop at Gurney Plaza | 5:00 PM

_____________

[PAST SHOWCASE/WORKSHOPS]


FB Event Page: https://www.facebook.com/events/361387623983871
_____________

Solo Electric Guitar Showcase/Workshop at Music Master Studio, PJ


FB Event Page: https://www.facebook.com/events/369102346533167/
Photos from the workshop: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10151406838491408.1073741890.45501591407&type=3

Sotong Visits Vegas

So is it really true that what happens to the Sotong in Vegas stays in Vegas?  

I conducted an electric guitar showcase & workshop at Music Master Studio on 1 June as part of my Electric Poetry tour. Great to meet all the PJ folks, Music Master Studio was packed to the brim!

This is an improv piece based on the suggestions of the audience - some one wanted a Sotong, and another person recommended Vegas.


Free Admission. 

[When?]
Saturday
June 1st 2013
8pm

[Where?]

 
Music Master Studio
16 , Jalan SS2/10,
Petaling Jaya,
47300,
Selangor,
Malaysia.
Email : info@musicmaster.com.my
Phone : (6)0378753428
Fax : (6)0378753428
Mobile : (6)012-2892790 
URL : http://www.musicmaster.com.my/
Map: http://www.musicmaster.com.my/contact-us.html

FB Event Page: https://www.facebook.com/events/369102346533167/


Solo Electric Guitar Showcase/Workshop at Drumstore, Paradigm Mall, PJ

FB Event Page: https://www.facebook.com/events/141443429376210 
Photos from the workshop:
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10151380962336408.1073741878.45501591407&type=1 

The T-Rex Song!

This was taken during my Electric Poetry tour. One of the youngest member of the audience suggested a DINOSAUR when I asked for a favourite animal. And she specifically wanted a T-rex. And so I wrote a song for her on the spot 
 =)

 

Free Admission!

[When?]
Sunday
May 19 2013
8pm

[Where?]


Drumstore, Paradigm Mall, PJ
1F-20, No 1
Jalan SS 7/26A
Kelana Jaya
47301 Petaling Jaya
Selangor
Phone: +603 7887 7301
HQ Email: askme@drumstore.com.my
Outlet Email:dspm@drumstore.com.my

FB Event Page: https://www.facebook.com/events/141443429376210

______________

[Supported by]

I'm happy to announce that I'm now part of the epic roster of artists such as Alex De Grassi, Mike Dawes, Kaki King and Chris Thile who use Elixir Strings!

Thank you Elixir Strings & Guitar Collection Sdn Bhd for the creative support. Am proud to endorse the strings!

[Amps]

Thank you to Candor Music & ZT Amplifiers for the Lunchbox Amp & cabinet to be used on the tour!

______________

Do you have an iPhone or iPad? =)


Tracks are currently available on Omvana, an app for IOS devices including 1 free track, 'in space'. Download the app now at: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/omvana/id595585396?mt=8

[About the album]

It started with a guitar.

Back in 2009, I met guitar builder William Jeffrey Jones at the Healdsburg Guitar Festival. That's also where I first tried the Proteus electric guitar that is now my main electric guitar. There's something special about finding an instrument that inspires your music. That led to my first solo electric guitar album 'The Amsterdam Recordings' in 2012. Now, in 2013 - I'm exploring electric guitar with live looping and guitar effects. 

The pedalboard setup for electric poetry

Stay tuned for more about the album. =)

For now, if you're in KL, hope you can make it for the album launch:

Learn more about the Album launch here: https://www.facebook.com/events/627582917256720/

[Album Launch]

To celebrate my 8th solo release, I'm having an album launch at Merdekarya & you're invited!

This album is very different than my previous solo releases which have been mostly acoustic guitar prior to last year's 'the amsterdam recordings.' (Music video from last year's album is below)

 

Be among the first to listen to the electric guitar textures, effects and looping in this upcoming album. 

To add to the celebrations, there will be some performances from guest musicians, singer-songwriter Anna Chong, fingerstyle guitarist (and my student), Lai Ze Ren & Ng Chor Guan on solo theremin.

I'll also be performing some music from the new album! =)

Limited handmade numbered copies of [in the deep night/electric poetry] CD will available for purchase at the event.

[When?]
Tuesday
28 May 2013
8pm

[Where?]
Merdekarya
352, Jalan 5/57, 
Petaling Garden, 
46000 Petaling Jaya, 
Malaysia.

Click here for detailed map & directions: http://merdekarya.com/How_to_get_there.html

Featuring performances by:

Az Samad [solo electric guitar]
Ng Chor Guan [solo theremin]
Anna Chong [singer-songwriter]
Lai Ze Ren [acoustic fingerstyle guitar]

Album launch FB Page: https://www.facebook.com/events/627582917256720/

Free Admission. All are welcome! 

---------

Join my newsletter for a FREE 7-song acoustic guitar MP3 compilation
& to be updated of new blog posts, videos, upcoming shows & exclusive content.

 

100% privacy and I promise never to spam you.
_________

 

 If you liked this post, please Like it or Tweet it! =)

Friday
Apr192013

Mike Dawes & Az Samad | Malaysia Tour 2013

Mike Dawes Malaysia Tour 2013:

June 17 | Mon | 8pm
Guest appearance at Open Mic @ The Venue #9 hosted by Az Samad
RSVP & invite your friends here: Official Facebook Event Page

[FB Photo Album]
Open Mic @ The Venue #9 Hosted by Az Samad (Pix by Albert Ng)

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June 19 | Wed | 8pm
Fingerstyle Guitar Workshop at Sixstrings

[FB Photo Album]
Mike Dawes Workshop @ Sixstrings 

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June 20 | Thurs | 10am
Switch.up TV interview with Mike Dawes on Strum

[FB Photo Album]
Switch.up TV interview with Mike Dawes on Strum

Video:

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June 20 | Thur | 9:30pm
Fingerstyle Guitar Artistry
Mike Dawes & Az Samad Live @ No Black Tie

RSVP & invite your friends here: Official Facebook Event Page

[FB Photo Album]
Fingerstyle Guitar Artistry by Mike Dawes & Az Samad at NBT 

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June 22 | Sat | 10am
Fingerstyle Guitar Workshop at The Canteen At ChinaHouse 

[FB Photo Album]
Mike Dawes Workshop @ The Canteen, ChinaHouse in Penang 

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June 23 | Sun | 9pm
Fingerstyle Guitar Artistry Tour
Mike Dawes & Az Samad Live @ ChinaHouse 

RSVP & invite your friends here: Official Facebook Event Page 

[FB Photo Album]
Fingerstyle Guitar Artistry by Mike Dawes & Az Samad @ ChinaHouse 

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Sungha Jung, Mike Dawes & Az Samad in Penang [FB Photo Album]

____________________


Official Facebook Event Page: https://www.facebook.com/events/405344009564837/

For the first time, join us as YouTube sensation Mike Dawes (UK) makes his Malaysian debut. With over 2.8 million cumulative views of his videos, Mike has garnered critical acclaim especially since his cover of Gotye ‘Somebody I used to know’ became a viral video hit. “Astounding Virtuosity” in the words Grammy Winner Gotye himself! 

Joining him for this 1-night-only concert will be Malaysian guitar maestro Az Samad. 

Expect alternating sets of fingerstyle guitar artistry from both artists & maybe even a duet at the end of the night. This is emotional, beautiful and technically expressive guitar music at its best, up close and personal at No Black Tie.

***

NOTE: For reservations, please call +603 2142 3737 (after 5pm). Please call to reserve early as we expect this to be a fully packed show.

Cover charge: RM40 for adults, RM25 for students
****

No Black Tie
17, Jalan Mesui
Off Jalan Nagasari
50200 Kuala Lumpur
http://noblacktie.com.my/about/find-us/

Official Facebook Event Page: https://www.facebook.com/events/405344009564837/

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Mike Dawes (UK)

 
“Astounding Virtuosity” - Gotye

“Completely Spellbinding” - Evening Post

“Mike tears it right up, his hand looks like a creepy spider!” - Andy Mckee

“Beautiful and sensitively played arrangements and compositions” - Acoustic Magazine

“A world-class acoustic act” - Live4guitar.com

“Mike Dawes is a F***ing awesome guitarist!” - Jon Gomm


Mike Dawes is a young steel string guitarist from the South of England

Since discovering the music of Pierre Bensusan at an early age, Mike has been completely dedicated to the guitar (along with the more obscure music that comes with it) 
Currently residing in the South of England, Mike has been stunning audiences and critics with his guitar playing since 2008. His music often defies description, taking influence from Celtic, Rock, World and Popular music.

Mike has performed alongside, and in support of some of the world’s most highly respected musicians, including: 

Seth Lakeman
John Renbourn
Tommy Emmanuel
Pierre Bensusan
Erik Mongrain
Julie Felix
Thomas Leeb
Antonio Forcione
Guthrie Govan
Martin Harley/Martin Harley Band
Pino Forastiere
Trace Bundy
Petteri Sariola
Chris Wood
Robin Williamson
Jon Gomm
Karima Francis

....and many more!

Mike's debut single with CandyRat Records went viral instantly, with the likes of Gotye, Beardyman and Andy Mckee reposting the video. His music has been featured on the front pages of Reddit, Gawker and Collegehumour whilst MSN.com featured Mike at the top of their homepage, sandwiched between The Queen and Barack Obama.

Performance highlights include the International Guitar Festival, The Komedia Theatre and a headline concert on the Acoustic Stage at Tommy Emmanuel's 'Tommyfest', where he shared the bill with the Frank Vignola Trio, Gordon Giltrap and of course, Tommy Emmanuel. 

He has been featured in numerous international publications including Guitarist, Acoustic and Acoustic Guitar magazines. His music has been played on BBC Radio, whilst being featured on international airwaves from Canada to Japan. 2010 saw Mike embark upon a 44 date UK tour, including shows at the Acoustic Festival of Great Britain, Exeter Guitar Festival and Arts Centres nationwide. Keep up to date with his busy schedule online via the 'Live Shows' tab. 

Armed with a slightly less-than-sane attitude towards music, 2 wooden boxes and an ever persistent attitude, Mike Dawes is a world class musician with a fantastic reputation. Watch this space for news of his upcoming solo release, new videos and exciting tour dates.

http://mikedawes.com/

Videos:

1. Mike Dawes - Somebody That I Used To Know (Gotye) - Solo Guitar

2. Mike Dawes - The Impossible - Solo Guitar


3. Mike Dawes - Boogie Slam (2013) Solo Acoustic Guitar


4. Mike Dawes - The Impossible 2.0 (Featuring Nolly + Petteri Sariola)

'The Impossible 2.0' Is a unique multi-instrumental version of 'The Impossible'. It features Petteri Sariola and Adam 'Nolly' Getgood (Periphery) 


***
For reservations, please call +603 2142 3737 (after 5pm). Please call to reserve early as we expect this to be a fully packed show.

***

-----

Az Samad (Malaysia)

"Technically impressive...utilizing the percussive potential of the guitar to great effect, something in the vein of guitarist Andy McKee." - All About Jazz

"Malaysian guitar maestro" -The Straits Times (Singapore)

"Guitar Guru. Considered one of the best guitarists in Malaysia" -Malaysian Business: Malaysia's Premier Business Magazine since 1972 

"Az's compositions are at times playful and irreverent, and at other times lyrical and soulful, but always inventive, tastefully crafted and beautifully nuanced — an absolute pleasure to listen to." - The Edge Malaysia

"undeniable talent..a one of a kind artist" - The Concordian 

"a steel-string acoustic guitar maestro" - The Star 


Guitarist-Composer-Educator Az Samad has performed in the United States, Europe and Asia. A versatile musician who has appeared on sixteen CDs (seven of which are his solo releases), Az has worked with Grammy winners Flaco Jiménez and Max Baca, drummer Bernie Dresel (Brian Setzer Orchestra), singer-songwriters Tara Linda and Reza Salleh, guitarists John Stowell, Adam Rafferty, Stuart Ryan, and Teja Gerken; world music ensemble Bogofusion; electronic jazz-funk group Planet Loop; Cumbia-Dub band Candelaria; and string jazz ensemble JazzMine. Az has been invited to perform as the opening act for concerts by Tommy Emmanuel and Martin Taylor.

Az was the featured classical guitar soloist with the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra (MPO) for the Distant Worlds: Music from Final Fantasy Kuala Lumpur premiere conducted by Arnie Roth (USA). He has also performed as part of the MPO in other sold-out performances and worked with conductors Richard Kaufman (USA) and Mark Fitz-Gerald (UK).

As an educator, Az has been on the faculty of Berklee College of Music's Summer Guitar Sessions and has taught workshops at Wesleyan University in Middletown, Connecticut; Culturefest in Pipestem, West Virginia; and The Freight & Salvage in Berkeley, California. Az believes in contributing back to the society that has supported his music efforts. His music outreach program starts off with scholarship student Irena Taib of The Impatient Sisters fame. Az currently conducts private guitar lessons in Kuala Lumpur with a strong focus on beginners and Jazz students. 

His past festival appearances includes performances at Penang Island Jazz Festival (Penang, Malaysia), Mosaic Music Festival (Singapore), The Philippine International Jazz and Arts Festival (Philippines), Culturefest (West Virginia, USA), Y2K International Live Looping Festival - with Planet Loop (Santa Cruz, CA, USA) and Georgetown Literary Festival (Penang, Malaysia). 

In 2012, he embarked on his first European tour with California-based Tara Linda & The Tortilla Western Trio performing in the Folk Segovia Festival, Spain & a 3-night residency at Töpferei Niehenke, Hasbergen, Germany. The Amsterdam Recordings - his first solo electric fingerstyle guitar album was recorded during the tour. Previously based in Berkeley, California; Az now lives in Kuala Lumpur.

http://www.azsamad.com/

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For reservations, please call +603 2142 3737 (after 5pm). Please call to reserve early as we expect this to be a fully packed show.

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Friday
Mar152013

Az Samad & Irena Taib

Az & Irena - The Wonderful World of Disney

 
Guitarist-educator Az Samad and Irena Taib of ‘The Impatient Sisters’ join forces for a melodic adventure through Disney favourites. With music from Snow White to Peter Pan, revisit your childhood through the  joy and wonder of well-loved Disney songs. Az Samad has recorded with Grammy Winners Flaco Jiménez & Max Baca; graduated & taught at the prestigious Berklee College of Music; performed in the United States, Europe & Asia; and appeared on 16 CDs ranging in styles from Tex-Mex, Contemporary Jazz to solo acoustic guitar.

Irena Taib took up the guitar when she was 10 years old and currently doing her diploma in music in ASWARA. Her major is in modern guitar and studying sitar as her 2nd instrument. Being in ASWARA has opened up a whole new world of music and has led her to all kinds of music such as Keroncong (a traditional Malay music style). Recently, The Impatient Sisters made their first international performance at The MOSAIC Music Festival in Singapore.

Az & Irena will be performing at the Kakiseni Festival 2013 on Tuesday, April 23rd at 4pm & 5pm as part of the Moonshine music program curated by Reza Salleh.

For more info, click here: http://festival.kakiseni.com/music/moonshine/

Tues, April 23: Kakiseni Fest @ Pavilion KL | Az & Irena - The Wonderful World of Disney | 4 PM & 6 PM 

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Tuesday
Feb192013

4 Lessons for Musicians from Seth Godin

I just finished reading “The Icarus Deception” by Seth Godin. It’s a book about him explaining how in this era, it’s not enough to simply be compliant and do things we’re told to do. It’s important for everyone to create art (even if you’re not a musician, writer etc.).

Here are some of the key points I got from reading the book. There’s many more of course & this is my take on it. It’s definitely a book I recommend reading.

1. Make art

It’s essential for us to make art.

What he means is that, as artists including musicians, we must create works that continue to challenge us. These works should not be defined by the expectations set by others and they should always enable us to grow. We should learn from every work we create and use those lessons to create even better work. We should make art every day.

For musicians, I translate this to recording and releasing singles, EPs, albums, YouTube videos, performing, teaching, writing books, articles, educational material and anything that challenges and stretches our creativity.

2. Do not follow the stories, myths & limit set by others

The old model of the music industry was:

  • Practice and be great
  • Get signed by a record label
  • Be famous and create & release works to a mass audience

This isn’t the only model anymore. Artists achieve success by YouTube, social media outlets, indie promotion and new methods chosen by ourselves. There is no longer a blueprint, there is no one path.

3. Pick Yourself

Don’t wait to be signed. Make art and release it on your own. Create art everyday. Reach out and find your audience everyday. Believe in yourself and your art.

4. Make art, and then make more

Make art everyday. Learn. Repeat.

Through this process, we learn what works and what doesn’t. We figure out what defines us and what doesn’t. We learn more about our art and what inspires us. I relate to this a lot as I believe in longevity being the key to a career in the arts. It’s possible to create a hit song or album or recognized work, but to make a lifestyle choice around it. To make it, our calling to continue creating art everyday of our lives is harder.

This is exactly why we should. Because it makes a difference. Because it is essential. 

If you like this post, you might like these related posts: 

The Indie Secret to Making Music
A blog post on how to keep making music throughout a long independent music career

How to be Creative in 7 Steps
7 simple tips to igniting creativity in your music and daily life

The B.O.P of Learning
A 3-step approach for learning music if you have very limited time

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Monday
Feb182013

Fingerstyle Guitar Lesson #3 - How to make a simple D Major Chord epic!

It's 2013 and it's the year of epic guitar! 

To help more guitarists, there will be weekly free guitar lessons posted on the site. These lessons will include:

  • A Video Lesson
  • Audio MP3 Version of the Lesson
  • FREE Downloadable PDF with notated examples & TAB

Every month will alternate between:
1) Jazz guitar
2) Fingerstyle guitar
3) Beginner guitar   

February 2013 is fingerstyle guitar month! The focus will be to help aspiring fingerstyle guitarists learn their craft better. 

Here's the 3rd fingerstyle guitar lesson. Enjoy! 

 

Audio Version:
 

[Click here to download the 'How to make a simple D Major Chord epic!' PDF File]

[Click here to download the 'How to make a simple D Major Chord epic!' PDF File]

[Additional Resources]

http://www.azsamad.com/resources

*****
[ACTION STEPS] How can you learn this better?

1) Make a guitar part using these embelishments
2) Write a short piece
3) Figure out the embelishments for different open position major chords such as:

  • C Major
  • A Major
  • G Major
  • E Major

4) Figure out the embelishments for different open position major chords such as:

  • D minor
  • A minor
  • E minor

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100% privacy and I promise never to spam you.
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