December is the best month of the year – no doubt about that. And thanks to the Esplanade, we get to celebrate with daily music performances. Soak in the festive vibes by the bay as you listen to instrumental acts, ensembles and singer-songwriters. These are our top picks.
The Good Life Project
Formed four years ago, this seven-piece alternative soul outfit deliver sensational tunes that’ll get you up and dancing in no time. Expect groovy instrumental arrangements layered with smooth vocals in a blend of jazzed-up funk and R&B.
Gypsification
Known for creating a lively, swinging atmosphere, the Singapore-based band are – yup, you guessed it – all about that jazz. Just over a year old, these cats play gypsy and modern jazz, interwoven with the sounds of guitars, the double bass, sax, clarinet and flute. Joining them on stage this time will be Greek guitarist Jim Politis.
SISAY: Salud – A Latin Xmas
A native Ecuadorian ensemble specialising in traditional and contemporary Andean music, Sisay’s roots date all the way back to the ’80s. Bask in the tropicalia of a Latin Christmas as the group whip out their high-energy mix of Latin, World and Andean tunes with a festive twist.
Blue Monks – The Disco Funk Edition
There’s no way you can sit through this gig without jumping to your feet and busting a move. Whatever your choice of dance, you’ll be boogieing the night away to the upbeat sounds of disco and funk from the local outfit, led by Roze Kasmani on vocals.
Crystal Goh
This sweet singer-songwriter has a brave story to tell. In 2011, she was struck by a rare neurological condition and lost her voice. Wading her way through the silence, she turned to music to express herself and spread the message of hope. Tune in to her original songs at this intimate, cosy performance and be inspired by her tenacity and her journey of healing.
Lorong Boys
Dec 30 & 31
You may remember these guys from their jamming sessions on MRT trains – the first time they did it, the video went viral. Comprising musicians trained at the Yong Siew Toh Conservatory of Music, the instrumental quintet perform Top 40s and Broadway hits interspersed with classical tunes on the flute, piano, violin and percussions.
Celebrate December is at the Esplanade from Dec 18-31.