Earlier feature articles:
MALEX INTERVIEW
Sorry braders n sisters, it took quite some time since the last featured article. OK, let BRADER ROCK now present an interview with MALEK, guitarist of the band MALEX. Known as Malek Malmsteen in the 80s while playing for Aces ( which featured the late Syed Hassan ( Sweet Charity ) on bass and the late Naim(on vocals ), Malek is now back in action with his new band, MALEX.
Some of you rockers may have already heard MALEX’s album, EUPHORIA, which features instrumental as well as vocal songs such as SEKSA, RIBUT HIDUP and YANG TERSIRAT.
MALEX will be hitting the stage at ROCK ON. Judging by their last gig appearance at OBSESSION, they set to be a hit with the fans at the event.
When was Malex formed?
Malex was formed in 2000. In that year, we were given the opportunity to perform at Rentak Asia in Kuala Lumpur, which showcased international guitarists Steve Vai, Joe Satriani and Eric Johnson as well as known regional acts such as Ramli Sarip and God Bless.
What were your feelings being able to play alongside such big names at a big event?
I felt honoured being given the opportunity to do that. Furthermore, it was my first real big show after not being active for such a long time.
How did you get your present line-up( Malek – guitar, Alif-vocals, Sham-Bass n Rafee-drums)?
I’ve known certain members for a very, very long time since the 80s, so it’s not a problem asking them to play in the band. The only exception is our vocalist Alif. I didn’t know him that well before. Our bassist Sham recommended him to me. That was how I got the present line-up.
In the 80s, you were known affectionately as “ Malek Malmsteen”. What is your reaction to that label?
I take that as a compliment because most of the stuffs I played in Aces in the 80s were derived from Malmsteen’s albums. However, my guitar playing techniques and style is not an exact copy of Malmsteen. I try to put my own style and sound t o my playing.
The structure of Malex is centred around a lead guitarist, very similar to Yngwie Malmsteen’s Rising Force and Michael Schenker Group. What are the strengths and limitation of this kind of band set-up?
The strength of a set-up of this kind is it makes us more articulate and careful in the choice of notes and arrangement. The limitation is this style is that it only attracts a small number of music lovers.
Between Aces in the 80s and the present, what are some changes you have observed regarding the Singapore rock scene?
The 80s was more vibrant. Singapore bands were more widely accepted at that time. There are more bands with different music styles now and they attract different followers. This makes the rock scene rather fragmented and can be a problem for marketing purposes.
How is your album Euphoria being received?
It is quite well received, the copies are moving. To be honest, not quite bad for a rather low budget, independent label production. The album is quite widely recognised by local rock music lovers.
What will be the direction of the next album?
I will still retain the concept and direction of Euphoria. In my opinion, Euphoria is different from other local band releases.
Are guitar solos still relevant in today’s music?
This is rather subjective but to me it still has relevance in today’s music. In my opinion, guitar solos enhanced the songs and also the capability of the guitar player in terms of skills, techniques and emotions.
Who are your favourite guitarists?
David T Chastain, Tony MacAlpine, Gary Moore and Yngwie Malmsteen.
What is in your current arsenal of equipments?
Amp wise – Marshall Halfstack – All-tube 100W Slash Signature Series Head and a Marshall 4x12 cabinet.
Effects – I use Boss effect pedals.
Guitar-wise – I have three – a Fender, an Ibanez and a Cort.
Can you give a sneak peek at your set-list for ROCK ON?
Apart from the original numbers, they can expect BLACK SABBATH, DEEP PURPLE, AC/DC and MALMSTEEN stuff at ROCK ON.
Itu dia the main man of MALEX. Now everybody, please practise this to sing along:
“ Ah…..aaa aaaa SEKSA aaaa “
by Brader Rock