An article published on this page on October 16, which said “Live music in Siem Reap, like in most tourism resort towns, sucks,” has caused angst and outrage.

7Days reporter Lily Partland, who did not write the offending words, has borne the brunt of face-to-face criticism, and reports that Siem Reap’s musicians have come out in defence of the live music scene here.

The contention that there is no original music performed live in town was not disputed, but Daniel Sea defended the right of venues to hire musicians to solely perform covers.

“In the places I’m working, venues are catering to tourists. People like the familiarity of songs they know – it’s a touch of home when they’re travelling,” he said.

“I’ve seen people do original stuff in these environments and it just flops.”

Fabien Lesecq, lead guitarist of Cambojam, said the band was satisfied with playing cover versions.

“We thought playing covers was the way we could really touch the audience. You satisfy everyone and we satisfy ourselves. They have fun, we have fun and everyone is happy,” he said.

Cambojam singer and guitarist Kristian Enriquez said the band plans to put together some original songs next year.

“The expats have been encouraging us for quite some time to play original stuff. By next year, we might be able to inspire people to create original music in Siem Reap,” he said.