Filipino bands are known to be top class and versatile, which makes them much in demand performers abroad, according to Harry Mann, general manager of Evolve Events and Branding.
The Filipino entrepreneur, who's been the person behind some of the major events in Doha, brought to the country another all-Filipino band to spice up the local entertainment scene.
Called Kitty Asia Band, the performers led by five vocalists had been to various countries including South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia and the UAE before they find their way into Doha entertainment scene. They are performing regularly at the Fabric Lounge in Grand Regal Hotel.
"Filipino bands are just topnotch. I have been travelling a lot and I have witnessed the fantastic skills of Filipinos in singing and live performance in general. No fun in this beautiful world without the presence of Filipino performers around the globe," Harry told Qatar Tribune, in an interview.
Kitty Asia Band has been playing together for eight years. They have gained followers for consistently coming up with spectacular, innovative and exciting performances together with Manila artists and performers from the Visayas Region in the Philippines.
The band's repertoire caters to young professionals and young-at-heart people. Their music ranges from disco, rock, ballad, pop, pop-jazz and R&B and music from 70's, to the awesome music of the 90's including the phenomenal top hits of the decade.
According to Harry, to keep abreast with the latest trend of music and maintain the excellent quality of presentation, the band still maintains weekly rehearsals despite its hectic schedule. He said the band is a good addition to the lively Doha entertainment scene, especially for the Filipino community.
"Qatar entertainment scene often offers gigs featuring DJs and jazz bands. This doesn't cater much to the Filipino audience. Kitty Asia can both cater to their Filipino patrons as well as other nationalities. They are totally unique band being the only band in town having five vocalists. Their performances skills are noteworthy. The excitement they bring every night is just brilliant," Harry said.
Commenting on the progress of the Doha entertainment and bar scene in general, he cited the changing prospective among local patrons of the industry including the event organisers.
"Expats or those in the industry have helped changed the landscape of local entertainment scene. Alternative hangouts are all over unlike before. Nowadays, there is more emphasis on brand events. As the country prepares to host FIFA World Cup in 2022, there should be more improvements in terms of bringing in more international DJs and artists," Harry said.
Kitty Asia regularly performs at Grand Regal Hotel from 9pm to 2am. Mondays is Ladies Night, Tuesdays for Retro Night, Wednesdays is for Cabin Crew and Hotelier, Thursdays is themed as Hollywood Night, Fridays is R&B night, and Saturday is jammers night.