Along with all the traditional parties and holiday trimmings, the FCC will close out 2007 with a star-studded lineup of artists and musicians.
(Please note, the Beat Presser show has been cancelled.) It starts on December 6 when Swiss photography legend Beat Presser brings his latest work to the FCC Phnom Penh. Titled "Oasis of Silence," Presser's exhibit is an intimate look at Buddhism in Southeast Asia. Originally conceived 35 years ago after spending time in a Buddhist monastery recovering from a car accident, "Oasis" offers a "fresh eye" and a new perspective on an age-old reality, says Presser.
Acclaimed Australian blues export The Backsliders follows with shows at the FCC Angkor on December 7 and the FCC Phnom Penh on December 8. Australian music critic Doug Mulray recently called The Backsliders, with its all-star roster of Aussie bluesmen, "the best acoustic blues band in the country." Both shows start at 9 p.m. Free admission.
New Zealand native Paul Ubana Jones returns to Cambodia two days later for four live performances. Wailing on his signature 1979 Martin, Jones, a one-man guitar powerhouse, plays an energetic mix of soul-fueled guitar-driven ballads and rock classics. "Trying to describe just how good Paul Ubana Jones is, is like trying to define why the Mona Lisa is the most famous painting in the world -- words pale in comparison," said the Evening Post. Jones will perform December 10 and 11 at the FCC Angkor and December 14 and 15 at the FCC Phnom Penh.
For Christmas, the FCC Angkor and FCC Phnom Penh will put together a heavenly feast, complete with all the holiday trimmings -- pot roast turkey, cranberry and Christmas pudding (see the full menu). Serving begins at noon on Christmas Eve and continues through Christmas Day. Reservations recommended.
For New Year's Eve, both the FCC Phnom Penh and the FCC Angkor will host massive parties with special guest DJs and more. At the FCC Angkor, New Year's Eve will begin with a sumptuous Indian buffet and continue through to sunrise. The FCC Phnom Penh is also planning for a surprise guest DJ, but final details are still in the works. Watch the FCC web site for details, or drop into the bar and see what's happening.
Also in the works are plans for a Latin-flavored New Year's bash at Pacharan. Talk to your bar man for the latest details.
Until next year,
Happy Holidays from everyone at the FCC.