Despite problems…

veterans continue to shine

It’s, indeed, heartening to see some of the stalwarts, in the local music scene, continue to make their presence felt by keeping music lovers, entertained, at some of the popular venues, in the city…despite the problems we are all experiencing.

Going by what I see, on social media, Chandral Fonseka, a veteran in the local music scene, and his band Kings, are giving guests a cool atmosphere, with their kind of music, on a Thursday evening, at The Hilton Colombo.

Marlon Amarasekera is back in the scene with his outfit, Omega, and they do their thing every Saturday night, at the Hilton Colombo.

According to Marlon, they are also working, on Tuesdays, and Saturdays, during the month of August, at the same venue – the Colombo Hilton Lobby.

Marlon has, in the past, performed with some of the top bands. He did it with the group Friends, Rebirth and Mirage, on lead guitar and vocals.

Omega was formed in March 2021, and they operate as a four-piece band.

“We do bring into our setup a female vocalist, but not on a regular basis. It all depends on the occasion, or upon a client’s request,” said Marlon.

The musicians creating the vibes for Omega are…

Marlon Amarasekera:

Band leader – on lead guitar and vocals. His repertoire covers the classic songs of Bryan Adams, Joe Cocker, Don Henley, Bruce Springsteen, Bon Jovi…yes, from the Golden oldies to the popular Baila.

Viraj Perera:

Deezone, Rebirth, Mintaka, and Rock This Country – piano/keyboards and vocals. Covers Elton John, Billy Joel, Van Morrison, Don McLean, Paul Simon, Freddy Fender, John Mayer.

Esa Suraweera:

Damage, Gravity and Black – bass guitar/vocals. His scene includes song of Shaggy, Doobie Brothers, Gypsy Kings, Bob Marley and the current chart hits.

Sajith Mendis:

On drums (fairly new to the scene but was drummer for KRC WORSHIP, for 10 years.)

Marlon went on to say that Omega is well equipped to tackle any occasion.

“We have the talent to tackle pop, soul, country, rock, blues, and, of course, Sinhala hits, and bailas.”

In addition to their regular Lobby, Club and Pub performances, they also do dances, weddings, corporate events, shows, as well as tours.

With the group Friends: Marlon – front row, extreme right