Contributing Writer: Elwa Gloria Justin
Imagine this: the sun is setting over Sepilok, and the rainforest is buzzing—not just with cicadas and crickets, but with people gathering for the very first night of Sepilok Jazz. The Prelude Night isn’t just a warm-up, it’s where the magic kicks off.
Things start off in a very chill atmosphere starting from 6 PM. Young talents—the winners of Bakat Sepilok Jazz—step on stage first. You can feel their nerves and excitement, but the moment the music flows, the whole crowd leans in. It’s raw, fresh, and full of heart, like a glimpse of the future of jazz in Sabah.
Then, a quick pause for some words from the organisers, FOSTER. They remind everyone why we’re here: not just for the music, but also to keep the spotlight on sea turtle conservation. It’s a sweet moment where music meets purpose, and honestly, it gives the night a bit of soul.
By the time the main acts roll in, the rainforest is already humming. Cris Aban Trio sets the groove, then Seoul Fizz from Korea turns things up with their slick sound. Later, Sonny B & the No.1s featuring Wan G bring the energy home—mixing jazz with local flavours that make the crowd cheer. Everywhere you look, people are swaying, snapping photos, or just soaking it all in with a drink in hand.
Food stalls are busy, laughter fills the air, and the vibe feels half like a concert, half like a big community hangout under the stars. By the finale jam session around 10 PM, musicians from different acts start hopping on stage together, trading solos and riffs like old friends. The crowd doesn’t want it to end—but when the last note fades, the forest quietly takes back the night.
That’s Prelude Night: a perfect blend of music, conservation, and good vibes in the heart of the Bornean rainforest.
