The arts scene in Singapore has become more and more vibrant. Here are some musical artistes you should check out
By Cleon Ong & Chia Hui Jun
If you have been unaware or uninvolved in our arts scene, perhaps it is time you gave our creativity, artistry and talent a chance. We present some talented musicians you can be proud of.
Esther Lowless
Esther Lowless’ music career began with a declaration of her love for animals. Her friend who was a sound engineer and music producer had challenged her to write a song on this topic and, after recording her self-written song in his studio, she realised that it was possible to write an extended play (EP) album.
Light in the Darkness
The piano singer-songwriter draws inspiration from negative emotions, distant memories and inspirational experience. In fact, her album Strange Place to Meet tells the story of a mental breakdown she had between the years of 2009 to 2011.
The six songs on the EP relate how an unwelcome visitor had barged into her life, haunted her, and how she had faced it with courage. Esther counts “finding the courage to go solo” as her proudest achievement.
“I just hope that I will gain fans of my music that truly appreciate the kind of music that I do… and enjoy the musical experience I offer,” she said.
Victoria Street
Victoria Street is a five-piece band that plays alternative pop and rock songs. Deborah Lee (vocals), Joshua Low (vocals, guitar), Nigel Peh (vocals, guitar), Darren Tan (bass) and Spencer Teo (drums & percussion) were course mates in Singapore Polytechnic.
The band was formed after a random jamming session back in their poly days. Shortly after, they played a few gigs within their school and received compliments from lecturers that they had the potential to go far. It was then when they decided to take the band seriously.
Original Material & New EP
Victoria Street plays mostly original material when they play together, because the members can never decide on a song to cover. It’s only when they come together to write an original number that all their different views come together and create something magical.
Victoria Street is currently in the post-production stage of their very first EP. The EP will have five songs.
Two of the songs, “We Had A Story” and “If Only I Could”, were played at the launch of SPEAR (Singapore Polytechnic Emerging Artiste and Repertoire), Singapore Polytechnic’s very own record label and production house.
Proudest Achievement
Victoria Street closed the event for the launch of SPEAR. The event was held at Hard Rock Hotel’s Coliseum at Resorts World Sentosa. With a turnout of about 1,000 people, it was the biggest stage they had played on so far.
Although some of the members have to serve the nation soon (one of them is already in the army), they hope to keep writing and composing new songs.
Of course, they would love to play for everyone more.
Republished from Issue 44.
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