Jo Branko's appearance anticipated by fans - Shah Slam

The upcoming "Konsert The Grand Slam Unplugged 2" in Kuala Lumpur is highly anticipated, primarily due to the special appearance of two legendary figures from the Malaysian rock scene: Jo Branko, known for his work with Barbarik, and Kid, a guitarist from the iconic band Search. They will be joining the popular band Slam on stage.

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Kid and Jo Branko are famous for the Rock genre. So it is very appropriate if we perform their songs in an 'unplugged' version.

According to Shahnizan Abdul Halim, 52, the guitarist for Slam, the inclusion of Branko and Kid is particularly exciting because their rock anthems will be presented in an unplugged format. Halim noted that while Branko and Kid are associated with the rock genre, Slam's music leans more towards pop. This contrast, he believes, will make the concert more dynamic and engaging for the audience.

The concert also serves as a celebration of Slam's 30th anniversary. The band plans to perform 20 songs, all newly arranged with orchestral backing. Halim mentioned that performing songs by Jo Branko and Kid in this setting is a long-held dream for him. "The songs that Jo Branko and Kid will perform are truly rare," he stated. "Performing them together has been my dream for decades."

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We actually didn't expect them to accept the invitation to perform in this concert. They are Rockers, different from the music genre performed by the band Slam which is more towards pop. But the difference in music genre is what makes tonight's concert more interesting.

Halim explained that this year felt like the right time to hold an anniversary concert, given the band's three-decade presence in the music industry. While a concert was planned for the previous year, personal commitments prevented it from happening. "So why not this year, let's celebrate Slam's 30th anniversary with an unplugged concert for the fans?" he said.

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The songs that Jo Branko and Kid will perform are truly rare. Performing them together has been my dream for decades.

Reflecting on organizing concerts now compared to the past, Halim observed that there are now more facilities and opportunities available for large-scale shows. "The situation then and now is very different. Now there are more opportunities to hold concerts with larger venues and better facilities," he remarked. Ticket sales are progressing well, with about 80 percent sold, and the band is hopeful for last-minute purchases to reach their target.

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It happens that we have entered 30 years. I feel this is the right time to hold an anniversary concert.