‘Velvet Alibi’ Earns Malaysian Violinist Martin Looi Silver Honour at Global Music Awards
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysian violinist and producer Martin Looi has added an international accolade to his portfolio after his latest album Velvet Alibi captured a Silver Medal at the Global Music Awards 2026.
The album, released on March 25, reflects a deliberate evolution in Looi’s musical direction, introducing a moody, cinematic aesthetic that combines classical violin techniques with modern production styles.
A concept-driven musical journey
Anchored by the theme “Refined Mystery,” the project presents a carefully crafted sonic narrative, moving between subtle elegance and heightened emotional intensity.
Looi described the album as a calculated creative risk, one that pushed him beyond his comfort zone and into a more experimental and atmospheric soundscape.
Blending originality with reinterpretation
Although the album is primarily composed of original pieces, it also features reimagined versions of selected tracks, offering listeners a bridge between familiarity and innovation.
This approach reinforces Looi’s vision of repositioning the violin as a leading instrument within contemporary music, particularly in cinematic and genre-crossing compositions.
The production was completed in collaboration with his sister, Lav, and mastered by Studios 301, contributing to its polished, globally competitive sound.
Expanding influence on the global stage
The recognition marks a significant step forward in Looi’s career, underscoring his growing influence in the international instrumental music scene.
With a foundation in classical training, he has distinguished himself by integrating elements of hip-hop, R&B, pop and electronic music into his work.
His continued experimentation and performances across international platforms highlight his role in redefining how the violin is perceived in modern music.
-wilayah.com.my
