Rare treat for jazz music lovers in country

BRUNEI music lovers across the country gathered at the Rizqun International Hotel for a rare treat as an amazing showcase of musical delight was put on show yesterday by the jazz music group "Unit Asia".

The concert co-organised by the Embassy of Japan and the Japan Foundation featured the group "Unit Asia" which is composed of five individual talented musicians, three from Japan, one from Malaysia and another from Thailand.

Themed "A New Direction in Asian Jazz", Unit Asia brings a new, fresh and diverse style to contemporary Jazz.

His Excellency Hashimoto Itsuo, the Ambassador of Japan stated that this event was a good opportunity to further strengthen ties between Japan and Asean countries.

A total of 10 different original songs, mostly written by members of the group were performed on the night. These songs range from powerful ballads such as "Memory of you" to upbeat tunes such as "One town" and a "Day in blue" written by Tay Cher Siang (pianist) and Hiroyuki Noritake (bassist) respectively.

The song that stood out most, however, was "Walking around the K" written by guitarist and band leader Isao Miyoshi.

"Walking around the K" pulled audiences along for a journey through its fast and rhythmic beats, ending with a fast and furious duel of solos between Isao and their saxophone maestro, Koh Mr Saxman. All the while being complemented perfectly by their bassist, Shigeki Ippon.

Present as guests of honour were Pg Anak Hj Abdul Wadood Bolkiah and Pg Seti Amanah.

The group will tour five countries, including Brunei. The other countries are Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand and the Philippines. Their next stop will be in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.The Brunei Times