Multi-talented Dennis Lau, solo violinist cum song writer, shows Asia that a small city lad can have it all with some hard work, true passion and dedication. As the first Malaysian instrumentalist ever to be signed by Sony Music Entertainment, the launch of his debut album last Thursday, ‘DiversiFY‘ marked a momentous beginning.

Photography by CY Wong

The album has a total of 11 tracks and includes collaboration with a number of well recognised local and overseas acts. Other artistes and creative minds that Dennis has worked with include Yuri Wong (most known for creating the score to Upin and Ipin, a popular Malay series), Majestik (a South African rapper), Nick Lee (award-winning mixing and mastering engineer), musician Tay Cher Siang, Lewis Pragasam, Ken Chung, Jamie Wilson, Tay Kewei as well as the Beijing and Guangzhou Symphony Orchestra (with famed Chinese arranger Peng Fei).

Held at the swanky Shook restaurant at Starhill Gallery, the exclusive by invitation only launch was just a small demonstration of his musical talent as he performed in collaboration with soprano singer, Syafinas Selamat.

Another higlight was Dennis’ surprise performance with fellow rising star and beatboxer extraordinaire, Shawn Lee along with popular bassist Ken Chung, saxophonist Jimmy Sax and guitarist/composer Yuri Wong.

My first album showcases how diverse the violin can be as an instrument. Truth be told, the violin is the closest instrument to the human voice. I would like to show people that there is more to the violin than just the classical sound. The tracks on this album have hints of R&B, Jazz, Pop and Hip Hop to give a funky, fresh and modern twist. – Dennis Lau -

Photography by CY Wong

His growing success and passion for music is a testament to his mother, who encouraged him at a tender age to pursue his musical endeavours. At 24, Dennis’ appeal is not just limited to our nation as he has already performed in Taiwan, Singapore, Thailand, Sri Lanka and Korea. There is no doubt that his popularity will transcend our borders.

On Halloween’s Day, The Peak Xperience launched its new consultancy studio at The Strand, Kota Damansara with a cocktail party themed “Twilight Love – Vampires Rule, Cinderellas Drool” with Alter Ego as the dress code.

As the hostess of the party, I certainly had a fun time conceptualizing all the bizarre settings together with our dessert sponsor, Anizah of Truly Scrumptious!.

As we themed the evening’s event Twilight Love, expect to see our version of the modern-day Cinderella – one who wants something different and is not afraid to take the road less traveled as she plans for her wedding to Prince Charming. Whilst we do not expect potential clients to come to us for a vampire-ish wedding theme, we certainly hope the cozy space we had transformed managed to showcase a sneak peek at what we can do as wedding and party planners – and that is, to create memorable experiences that are unique, creative and fun.

In this renewed interpretation of modern fairy-tale love story, we added our own twist as we showcased thematic table settings -  Oriental Autumn Twilight, Twilight in Spring and Gothic Winter to suit every bride’s every whim and fancy. In a way, it is a romantic interpretation on our part of what was once thought of as a scary nightmare.

To further add to the event’s flavour, we unveiled our new brand, Sugar & Spice and together with Truly Scrumptious! as our dessert sponsor, guests had the opportunity to sample specially concocted desserts with intriguing names such as Till Death Do Us Part, Vampire’s Kiss, Forbidden Fruits *Poison Apples*, Tru Blood, Blood Beer, Sugared Blood, Happy Pills and many more sinful temptations that proved to be a hit with the guests.

We are thankful to our corporate partners and friends such as That Special Occasion for showcasing their beautiful gowns, Jewel Avenue for displaying accessories that are sure to set every bride’s heart aflutter and of course, Truly Scrumptious! for preparing the heavenly dessert samplings.

Patrick Low of Budget Brides emerged as the best dressed winner of the night. Pumpkins from top left to right: Creations of Louisa Michael of That Special Occasion, Bernie of That Special Occasion and Kris Wong of Weddings Malaysia.

All in all, it was a great Halloween Night! The only disappointment of the night was that Robert Pattinson (who plays Edward Cullen in the famed “Twilight Love” movie) was nowhere in sight…

For more photos, check out our Facebook album.