We recently had the pleasure of immersing ourselves in the rich textures of memory and sound at the Rachma Lim Listening Room, an exclusive jazz and cocktail experience held amidst the timeless craftsmanship of Journey East. It was a truly memorable evening.
The evening was led by the acclaimed Rachma Lim, whose decade-long international jazz career and Master's in Jazz Studies from Queens College, NYC, solidly built her reputation. We were treated to a unique and expertly crafted musical journey, performed alongside other respected musicians in the jazz circuit.
Rachma's theme for the evening, "Heirlooms of Memory, Songs for the Moment," beautifully celebrated the places and experiences that have shaped her artistry – from the vibrant cultural threads of Southeast Asia to the restless openness of America and the refined depth of Japan. We enjoyed melodies that felt like cherished heirlooms and fresh improvisations, each carrying echoes of home, learning, and human connection.
Enhancing this sensory experience, Wildcard capably helmed the bar. They brought their signature fun and easy-drinking style, featuring a special menu curated by the famed Bar Termini London. Their famed negronis, fine wines, and a few delightful surprises perfectly paired with the jazz experience.
It was an evening where music met material memory, and every note resonated with the stories of a life lived and a world explored. We had a wonderful time!
Featuring:
E. J. Hughes - Tenor Sax
Dan Z'Berg - Trumpet
CHELSEA - Vocals
Rachma Lim - Keys
Hiro Maekawa - Bass
Oswal Gonzalez - Drums
E. J. Hughes is a saxophonist and woodwind performer / instructor with a background in music that began at age 10 with recorder, moving to alto saxophone in Kenner, Louisianna at 12. The Saxophonist and educator, now in his 50s has travelled extensively performing in many genres with a passion and deep rooted training in Jazz, Classical, and Contemporary music.
Hughes is currently teaching at Singapore Raffles Music College as well as private lessons in person and online. Hughes also teaches at Flute and Music Academy in Singapore. E. J. has been performing weekly in a trio setting for JJAN Korean Fusion Restaurant and various supportive performances with local jazz artists in Singapore.
In the past Hughes helped Georgia State University’s Rialto Youth Jazz Orchestra (RYJO) program after returning to Atlanta from work on cruise ships and a year of visiting South East Asia. In the past E. J. was an Artist Affiliate in Jazz Saxophone for Emory University and taught Advanced Improvisation and Jazz Saxophone for Georgia State University before returning to his hometown in New Hampshire.
Hughes received classical instruction on clarinet and flute in his undergraduate work at Valdosta State University where he received his Bachelors degree in Music Performance. E. J. returned to Atlanta to finish a Masters degree in Jazz Pedagogy in 2001-2003 as a graduate assistant where he was responsible for jazz combo direction as well as instruction of Advanced Improvisation under the guidance of Dr. Gordon Vernick, head of Jazz Studies. Hughes has taught, performed, and recorded while residing in New York, Georgia, Florida, New Hampshire and Singapore, in addition to performing extensive cruise ship contracts traveling to over 20 countries. E. J. has performed and recorded with Grammy winning artists while creating, organising, and recording as a leader on the Blue Canoe record label with the digital releases: “Something to Say,” and “Emotional Vampire” available through Apple Music, Spotify, and Amazon Music. E J Hughes is currently residing Singapore with his wife Carol. 
Dan Z'Berg
Hailing from California but 'exiled' in Singapore for the past 12 years, Dan claims to be a “commercial” trumpet player, which mostly means he plays loud and hopes for the best. Despite years of exposure, jazz music remains an elusive mystery to him and he still lacks the technical proficiency to play classical music. He also raps, which was born out of necessity when he would run out of things to say in his solos. He dabbles in RnB, where he’s managed to occasionally hit the right note by accident.
CHELSEA
CHELSEA subscribes to the adage, "Well-behaved women seldom make history,” and believes in connecting the body and mind through her music, and readily shares her expression of sound with those who seek to receive it.
Rachma Lim
Medan-born jazz pianist Rachma Lim has been an active force in Singapore’s music scene since graduating from LASALLE College of the Arts in 2010. Her decade-long career spans collaborations with both local and international artists, including work with Raghajazz, Orkestra Melayu Singapura, and the Singapore Wind and Symphony Big Band.
A graduate of Queens College, New York, with a Master’s in Jazz Studies, Rachma released her EP The Nocturnal Chapters in 2018, featuring original compositions recorded at Abbey Road Studio No. 2. The track “Wishing Well” earned global recognition for its artistry and emotional depth.
Now based in Singapore, Rachma is a key contributor to the local jazz community. She leads the weekly Sunday Jam at Jazz Loft at Blu Jaz and lectures at Lasalle her Alma mater, mentoring the next generation of musicians.
Hiro Maekawa
Bassist and composer Hiroaki Maekawa, originally from Tokyo, has performed with artists from all over the world during the last two decades. Hiroaki has crossed over genres and collaborated with many greats in the region. As an artist, Hiroaki has produced and released two albums consisting of all original compositions with his trio, Tokyo Blue, and also released his solo album in 2024.
Oswal Gonzalez
Originally from Paraguay, Oswal Gonzalez brings an electrifying yet refined presence to every stage. Known for his fiery energy and deep musical sensitivity, Gonzalez masterfully blends explosive rhythmic power with tasteful tonal color. His playing is backed by strong technical command and an instinctive ability to connect with fellow musicians, making him a dynamic force in any ensemble. Oswal Gonzalez continues to explore new sonic landscapes in Singapore, drawing from his diverse roots and rich personal journey.