ENVY* is a distinct voice in the Indonesian music scene. In a scene dominated by solo rappers, this collective is a significant player inside the scarcity of Indonesian hip hop collectives. With their innovation, catchy music, and idiosyncratic message, ENVY* is on their way to becoming a major voice in the Indonesian hip hop scene. The Speedofsoundmag team talked to ENVY* about NO WONDER WE HAVE NO FRIENDS, self-expression, and the t-slur.
Month: August 2019
Playlist: The Rising Väinämöinen — a Guide to Finnish Folk Metal
The Finnish folk metal music has been a magnum opus in the history of the Finnish metal scene. Finnish folk metal music can mainly be identified by the use of Finnish traditional instrument kantele, as well as other traditional instruments such as nyckelharpa and flutes. The feature of minor pentatonic melodies is also prominent in the music. Do not forget the influence of the Kalevala, the national epic of Finland that was put together in 1835 by Elias Lönnrot — most of Finnish metal band incorporate elements from the Kalevala in their lyrics. So, to summarize, the Finnish folk metal music takes influence from Finnish folklore, nature, and traditions, in which, a bit of fantasy is also incorporated. Most of the bands have energetic and intensive vibes. Here, contributor Ralka Skjerseth curates a playlist of her personal choices of Finnish folk metal tunes. Enjoy!
Featured Artist: The Struggle of Living in Urban Cities, As Explained by Scenario
Hailing from the city of Yogyakarta, the band Scenario brought the theme of morale empowerment about living in urban cities with “Merancang Peradaban”.
Sound Check, vol. 4 with Lightcraft
Anthemic indie rock band Lightcraft is back with their newest album, ‘Us Is All’. To mark the release of this album on June 27th, they also held a gig with various indie rock/indie pop artists such as Rebelsuns, Tanayu, Agrikulture, Neonomora, Aya Anjani, Muhammad Arief of Rumahsakit, Nanin Wardhani of Nonaria, Rai Putriansyah, Sakti, Estusk, and Provoke! Repro Alumni Choir. We had the chance to discuss about Lightcraft’s inspiration in making ‘Us Is All’ and their opinion on the current Indonesian indie rock scene.
Underrated f(x) Tracks
Korean girl group f(x) is well-known for their experimental dance-pop tracks, the members’ outstanding dance skills, and their quirky image. In this article, we have compiled a list of underrated f(x) tracks, especially ones that highlight the experimental side of their music and their high quality production.
The Nostalgia Series, vol. 6: Early to Mid 2000s Pop Melayu Phenomenon in Indonesia
It’s always interesting to talk about the most controversial era and one of the most iconic eras of Indonesian music – the era where local Malay pop bands dominated the scene and released what would later be national sad karaoke anthems.
The Schuberts – Panic Mixie Dream Boy / Dyin’ Young: An Advice on Handling Life in Our 20s
The indie-rock band that was formed in Kiaracondong, Bandung has finally released their single “Panic Mixie Dream Boy” / “Dyin’ Young” for their upcoming album this year.
Why “Old Town Road” Deserves Its Fame
I know most of you have been bored by the constant repeat of “Old Town Road,” but let me say it this time: The song is deserving of its fame.
Clairo’s Immunity: Breaking Out of Her Bedroom Comfort
Best known for her bedroom lo-fi aesthetics and “DIY” simplicity, Claire Cottrill, or better known as Clairo, is trying to take a bold approach to her music on her debut full length album “Immunity”.
Editorial: Current Local Picks
The Speedofsound Mag Team recently (partially) gathered to assemble our current faves from the local music scene – ranging from folk ballads to heartwrenching melodic punk to chill R&B. Sit back and enjoy the rest of the week with our picks.