[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RS4HfR9q-RU&feature=related[/youtube]
When word got out that the Like Me’s were coming to Cambodia, other people offered them shows. None of the shows in Cambodia were the typical rock shows they were used to. One show, for instance, was for children at the international North Bridge School. Another was in the heart of Capital City, where they played in a pop-up truck downtown while people shopped and rode their bicycles. Another was at a fancy benefit dinner with $175 VIP tickets, which people paid, some specifically so they could see the Like Me’s.
“There’s not a lot of young Cambodian artist who make original Khmer music. I think that’s what sets us apart,” says drummer Monique Coquilla.
After the success of the Like Me’s original Khmer rock songs, Hong’s mom insisted that they cover her favorite old Khmer tune, “Sya Rom Monkiss” (“Dance Monkey Dance”), a pop song from late 60s originally made famous by singer Pan Ron. Ron was killed during the Khmer Rouge Regime in Cambodia in the late 70s by dictator Pol Pol. His regime murdered countless artists and intellectuals and, amongst other things, ended original music. Cambodia has only recently had new artists emerge making original Khmer music.
“What we’re trying to do now is pick up where original music stopped in Cambodia. Bring original music back and bring our flavor. We’re attempting to bridge the gap,” says Coquilla.
The Like Me’s headline “Gals Rock” at X Bar in Cupertino on Saturday, 8pm; $8. Cleveland Browns and Dog Party also perform.
