In an age where algorithms serve as digital DJs and playlists are crafted at the tap of a finger, there’s an undeniable thrill that only a live performance can ignite – a feeling no screen or speaker can truly deliver.
This irresistible charm was what drew crowds to the Festival ‘Berambih Ke Belait’, recently at the Kampong Pandan Community Hall.
For three days, the venue pulsed with energy as music lovers gathered from near and far to experience the festival’s crowning attraction: live band performances.
Among the highlights was the much-anticipated reunion of local legends, Forzart and Reunions.
Forzart’s leader and lead guitarist, Emran bin Mohd Seruji, stood at the centre of the spotlight.
He shared tales of their early days, transporting the audience back to 1992, when their journey first began, adding a touch of nostalgia to an already electrifying event.
ENCORE OF MEMORIES
“Before forming Forzart, I was involved in another band called Metal Blade in 1983 when I was just 11 years old. It was around 1992 that I went on to form Forzart with Pengiran Irwan bin Pengiran Haji Besar, who was a keyboard player from the band Frontline,” recalled Emran, a nostalgic glint in his eye as he recounted the early days of his musical journey.
The name Forzart was no random choice; it was carefully crafted, merging the Italian Forza – meaning strength – with Zart, a musical nod to delicacy.
“Combined, the name Forzart was born from the power and strength to play with a gentle and calm mind,” Emran explained, encapsulating the essence of their sound.
Since its formation, Forzart has graced numerous stages and earned accolades, including Emran and Pengiran Irwan’s recognition as the best guitarist and keyboard player at Radio Television Brunei’s (RTB) Rhythm Fiesta in 2005, and a victory at the Band Explosion competition at Jerudong Park Country Club (JPCC) Amphitheatre in 2006.
But it wasn’t just trophies that marked their legacy. “Some of the most memorable moments (for the band Forzart) was being able to perform on stage with famous Malaysian rock artiste Amy Search,” Emran shared, his voice tinged with pride.
Sharing the stage at the festival was Reunions, led by manager Aidah binti Basir.
Reflecting on the event, she expressed how such gatherings breathe life into the community’s musical spirit.
“The purpose of the live music performance from Reunions is to inspire band members both new and old that the stage is still welcome to them wherever they are,” she said.
Aidah highlighted the unwavering support of the local community, emphasising that this encouragement is the heartbeat keeping seasoned and emerging bands alive.
“In my opinion, there are many who would come out to support bands to play on stage, with one such example being the live band performance that was conducted at the festival here at Kampong Pandan.”
RIFFS AND RESURGENCE
These reunion events are more than nostalgic indulgence; they are a rallying cry for veteran musicians and a beacon for new talent.
“It is an honour to see that we have not been forgotten over the past 32 years, and to have survived and thrived during these times is a showcase of strength and friendship found in live bands,” Emran reflected, capturing the resilience that defines Forzart’s legacy.
The festival also shone a spotlight on budding talent through events like the Guitar Solo competition, a platform where young guitarists could step into the limelight, met with cheers that hinted at the future of live music.
“This platform can help to unearth musical talent, both young and old,” Aidah affirmed, with Emran adding that such performances rekindle the spirit of the 80s, bridging the golden past with the present.
As the final notes echoed across the hall, a shared hope resonated: that these performances would kindle a new wave of live music.
“As long as there is a stage and time, we (Forzart) will continue to perform our hearts out,” Emran vowed, a promise met with a nod from Aidah, who added, “As their manager, I will continue to help Reunions as well as other aspiring bands opportunities to perform on stage.”
For some, the festival’s live performances sparked cherished memories of a golden era; for others, it marked the first steps of a newfound musical passion.
With music readily available at the touch of a button these days, these musicians remind us that the true magic of music lies in the way it brings people together.
It’s more than a sound to be heard, it’s an experience to be felt, shared, and carried forward, echoing through hearts long after the final note fades. – Daniel Lim
