Even though I’m a little late, I felt obliged to write about the little gig that took place at Petai Belalang KL on 14th September because, in my opinion, it was a huge success.
The venue itself deserves special mention for pulling off such an impressive event!
Having been to Petai Belalang KL a few times before, I was familiar with its potential. However, this was the first time I saw it packed to full capacity. The venue, though relatively new to the scene, has quickly established itself as a vibrant hub for underground music.
The space was perfectly suited for the intimate, raw energy of the gig. The packed, chaotic vibe of the space—filled with fans moving to the beat—really amplified the experience. It felt like a throwback to the gritty, immersive gigs of the past, and I loved every minute of it.
The show was set to start at 1pm, but there was a 30-minute delay. Unfortunately, I arrived late due to the heavy traffic around Kampung Attap, which was swamped with cars. I had to park farther away and missed Panasejok’s set entirely. I was disappointed, but I’m looking forward to catching them live next time.
However, my arrival timed perfectly with Hacktick! starting their performance. I’ve been a big fan of Hacktick! ever since I listened to their cover of “Bagaikan Puteri” by Faraa on Spotify (though it’s no longer available there). So, hearing them perform the song live at the Kuala Lopek gig was a real treat for me. Despite missing the first act, Hacktick! brought an infectious energy that immediately drew me in. The performance was tight, and the crowd was fully engaged.
For me, though, the highlight of the gig was Johny Comes Lately (JCL). When JCL took the stage, the venue erupted into a whirlwind of excitement and nostalgia. The packed, sweaty space—everyone dancing and skanking—was a reminder of the raw, chaotic gigs of yesteryear. Hearing JCL perform “Joget” live was a deeply personal experience. That song had been my escape during the pandemic, and skanking to it in a live setting felt like a powerful release.
Petai Belalang KL did an outstanding job of curating and hosting this event. Even though the gig was short, it didn’t feel rushed. The setlist was well thought out, and every band had their moment to shine. With tickets priced at just RM35, it was a testament to how you don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy high-quality music.
Overall, the gig was an unforgettable experience, and Petai Belalang KL proved itself a key player in the underground scene. The venue’s ability to foster such an electric and immersive atmosphere, especially with a full-house crowd, was truly impressive.
If you missed this event, make sure not to skip the next one at Petai Belalang KL!
