#BreakingNews : TERIAK DARI SELATAN Unleashes Reality Through Debut EP “Panduan Menuju Selatan”
Sukabumi, January 29, 2025 – Indonesian alternative rock trio Teriak Dari Selatan has officially released their debut EP, Panduan Menuju Selatan. This mini-album is available in two formats: a physical cassette edition, released on September 21, 2024, via Crowded Records, and a digital version, set to drop on streaming platforms on January 31, 2025, through Guts Records.
Described as "a fragile and repetitive depiction of anger," the EP features six tracks that explore social, political, and deeply personal themes. “Through this EP, we tried to capture our journey as individuals and what we observe in society,” said Rizki Januar, the band’s vocalist and guitarist.
A Long and Challenging Process
The making of Panduan Menuju Selatan took two years and was riddled with challenges, including lineup changes, conflicting schedules, and the geographical separation of its members. “At one point, communication with our former guitarist, Agi, became strained due to personal commitments. But we returned to our initial purpose of completing this EP, even recording some tracks in our boarding house,” Rizki recalled.
Beyond its creation, the EP serves as a reflection of the band's everyday realities. “We want to express the anger we feel, but also the vulnerability that often goes unnoticed,” he added.
The Stories Behind the Six Tracks
Each song in Panduan Menuju Selatan carries a unique narrative:
- "Panduan Menuju Akhir" – A powerful opener about death and the legacy one leaves behind. “The most important thing to be remembered by is good intentions, meaningful work, and eternal thoughts,” said drummer Rafi.
- "Rumah Rawan Sepi" – A melancholic symbol of heartbreak and fragility. “We wanted to convey what it feels like to be a thriving plant in barren soil, surviving solely on strong roots,” Rizki explained.
- "Bukan Saya Pak!" – A fast-tempo song inspired by a real incident in Sukabumi involving a violent motorcycle gang. “When the culprit was caught, he simply said, ‘It wasn’t me, sir!’ despite being obviously guilty,” Rizki shared.
- "Atas Nama Sarjana" – A critique of academic and social pressures on middle-class students. “Our message to struggling students is this: no matter the obstacles, the journey must go on,” said the band.
- "1001 Malam Menuju Jabatan" – A commentary on political injustice and blind faith in demagogues. Bassist Melvern emphasized, “The downfall of a nation often stems from its people's foolishness in believing political promises without critical thinking. Hunger is no excuse to stop thinking.”
- "Ahli Sihir" – A live-arranged closing track that delivers an immersive experience. “We want to show that our music is meant to be explored. Music should be celebrated, not just serve as background noise,” Melvern added.
Upcoming Music Video Premiere
The official music video for "Rumah Rawan Sepi" is set to premiere on February 14, 2025, at 8:00 PM WIB on YouTube. As the focus track of Panduan Menuju Selatan, the song encapsulates the recurring themes of rage and fragility present throughout the EP.
This release also serves as an anthem for those experiencing Valentine’s Day without love, offering solace to those embracing solitude and pain through music that echoes from the south.
Watch the premiere here: https://youtu.be/0L24SpGgSjc
The Unique Music Scene in Sukabumi
Sukabumi boasts a distinctive music ecosystem, driven by a strong collective movement that supports local musicians. “We started making music when our seniors were shaping emerging bands for the next generation. That aligns perfectly with our goal to establish our own musical identity. The local scene, led by these senior musicians, has been instrumental in helping Teriak Dari Selatan promote our work and secure gigs,” Rizki explained.
However, maintaining Sukabumi’s reputation as a city that nurtures artists remains one of their biggest challenges.
Visual Concept and Collaborations
The EP’s artwork was crafted by Borninline, a Sukabumi-based visual artist, combining manual and digital techniques. “The painting on the cover truly represents the stories within the EP because Borninline knows us personally and understands the emotions behind these songs,” Rizki shared.
Additionally, Crowded Records and other local collectives like Sap1ens Record, Roomofour, and Sukabumi Eundeur have played crucial roles in supporting the band's growth.
A Message to Listeners
“Through this EP, we’re presenting what we see and feel. We hope listeners can interpret it in their own way and use it for reflection. We simply want to deliver reality to those who feel trapped in monotony,” said Rizki.
About Teriak Dari Selatan
With Panduan Menuju Selatan, Teriak Dari Selatan has solidified their presence in Indonesia’s alternative rock scene, proving that their music is not just an escape, but a voice for reality itself.
Contacts:
Rizki Januar Fatslah
+62 822-1974-0608
Instagram: @teriakdariselatan