It all started with an Instagram post by Rafi Sudirman. The young Indonesian artiste whom I had watched live at a music festival a few years back in Jakarta. I applied and was one of the lucky fans to the special showcase at the Swee Lee music store at Star Vista.

Artistes from No Saints Allowed were Rangga Jones and Josh Makazo alongside others from the Indonesian-based label, After School; Rafi Sudirman and Nadhif Basalamah. The unplugged music experience was supported by aromatic fresh pressed coffee and tea from the Swee Lee Social Club café on that chilly evening hosted by Daphne Khoo.

At the private showcase, I was glad to watch the four guys perform their hearts out accompanied by guitars found exclusively from that music shop. It was a breakthrough performance for most of them, as it was their first live showcase.

Rafi Sudirman serenaded his fans with his skilful playing of the Soprano Saxophone with “Pengagum”. Rangga Jones shared his experiences writing music during the COVID shutdown and sang his originals like “Call Me”. Nadhif Basalamah’s unplugged performance of “Penjaga Hati” kept the mood right, and fans were singing along to it. Lastly, Josh Makazo hit the high notes with “Half of My Heart” followed by an announcement of his first solo performance at the Esplanade later this year.

It was a pleasant mid-week break for me and others who had the chance to mingle with the artiste after the showcase. I hope to explore more shows by both labels soon in town or abroad. Fans like you and me can connect with them through their socials; Rangga Jones, Josh Makazo, Rafi Sudirman and Nadhif Basalamah for updates on their upcoming EPs and more.