Interview by William Chan
Local jazz saxophonist and flautist Lam Chak Seng, based in the Greater Bay Area (GBA), told the Post last week that he and three other musicians will feature The Four Horsemen, a concert blending jazz and rock at Sifang Art Space on Avenida do Almirante Lacerda next Wednesday.
“Sifang” means “four ways”.
The show will feature Lam, drummer Jun Kung, guitarist Chan Hon Chong, and bassist Ivan Pineda. They will play a range of pop and jazz in a fusion style.
Jun Kung is one of the most famous local pop drummers, while Chan is one of the earliest professional jazz musicians who studied music in New York and Beijing. Pineda is an Australian musician versatile across various genres.
Lam, a local jazz saxophonist and flautist who is currently based in the GBA, pursued his studies at the Royal Conservatory in The Hague, Netherlands. Lam and Kung crossed paths several years ago and began collaborating in performances outside of Macau. Earlier this year, they discussed the idea of playing together in Macau, which led to this concert.
Lam and Kung, who have different musical styles, will collaborate to rearrange songs by Nirvana, The Beatles, Weather Report, Deep Purple, and the Brecker Brothers in a fusion style that strives to balance both of their influences. “Our arrangements will incorporate rock and jazz rhythms and tones into the pieces. They will differ from the original versions of the songs,” Lam noted.
Considering their current lineup and budget, Lam said that the band is customising the song arrangements. With only four members, they need to cover multiple parts and voices while making the most of their instruments. Lam added that he will be playing the piano on some of the tunes.
Lam expressed gratitude for the immense support received from local veteran musicians, particularly Humphrey Cheong. Despite not receiving funding, Lam said that they were fortunate to receive assistance in the form of sound equipment and instruments, making the concert possible. “A thriving music community relies on people supporting one another, growing together, and promoting the music scene,” Lam underlined.
Next Wednesday’s performance will be held at 8:30 p.m. at Sifang Art Space. Tickets are priced at 250 patacas. To purchase, visit:https://forms.gle/b8iS2f34Tv3QNzUd9
This undated photo shows drummer Jun Kung (left), guitarist Chan Hon Chong (right) and Lam Chak Seng posing in front of a shop in Hong Kong. – All photos provided by Lam
