In a groundbreaking musical endeavor, Malaysian artist Mohd Jayzuan has released his first single, ‘Sanglirsari,’ at 10:10 AM on September 27, 2023, signaling the dawn of a new era in Southeast Asian music. This extraordinary composition is a precursor to his forthcoming fourth album, ‘Senandika,’ expected to make its physical debut in 2024.
Sanglirsari’ was released by the artist-friend collective, Projek Rabak in partnership with the lifestyle brand, FK Sneakers and published by Taja Archive Publishing. This venture marks Jayzuan’s triumphant return to band-oriented music, with guitars, bass, drums, organ, keyboards, brass, and an array of instruments, all orchestrated with the virtuosity of multi-instrumentalist musician Adink Permana, who also takes the reins as the co-producer. The recording process was further elevated by the inclusion of Lisa Fuad, an emerging indie pop/shoegaze sensation in Malaysia, through her band, FUAD.
Jayzuan and Adink’s artistic synergy traces back to 2009, as they previously collaborated on Jayzuan’s third album, ‘Filokalis (2021).’ This partnership is a testament to their creative harmony, as Jayzuan explains, “Our thought patterns align, much like the iconic pairs of Tom Waits and Kathleen Brennan or Nick Cave and Warren Ellis. I have my counterpart in Adink Permana. What’s more, it’s invigorating to create alongside a confidant who comprehends the depths of my creative turmoil. We don’t merely craft music; we engage in profound conversations about life’s harsh realities and banalities.”
Lisa Fuad commended Jayzuan’s artistic prowess, stating, “The song ‘Sanglirsari’ can be described as classic Malay prose juxtaposed with contemporary sounds, and Jayzuan has executed it masterfully. Audiences should pay heed to ‘Sanglirsari,’ as it seemingly ushers in the inception of a novel musical genre.”
Jayzuan shares his audacious vision: “I aspire to compose Malay songs with a rugged, distinctive flair—an embodiment of Southeast Asian Pop. In my mind, I call it ‘Pop Tenggara.’ ” He elaborates on his penchant for exploring Malay and Malaysiana themes, drawing inspiration from diverse Malay sources to craft a sound steeped in the spirit of the Malay world, dispersed across the globe, especially throughout Southeast Asia.
In response to queries about his long-awaited return to the stage, Jayzuan enthusiastically responds, “That’s the plan; I yearn to take the stage once more, to croon and share tales and emotions with friends, face to face.” He adds with a grin, “Since 2011, I’ve channeled my focus into my career as a contemporary artist, collaborating with the Projek Rabak collective, curating exhibitions, and steering cultural and artistic events. Now that Rabak can navigate autonomously, I intend to don my musical hat and raise my voice once again.”
The creation of ‘Sanglirsari’ transpired at Moonjabé Studio in Cairo, Egypt, under the discerning guidance of Adink Permana, with additional contributions from The Archive Studio in Damansara Perdana, Malaysia, helmed by Hazeeq Azhar. The initial and final stages of mixing and mastering were artfully executed at Sine Studio in Jakarta, Indonesia, under the skilled hands of Dzulki Sunarya.
Izzat Amir, representing FK Sneakers, commended Jayzuan’s unique approach, asserting, “Jayzuan’s approach to love is distinct—’Sanglirsari’ is a testament to poetic maturity, devoid of conventional expressions of love in its lyrics.”
For inquiries, bookings, collaborations, or any engagements related to Mohd Jayzuan, you may reach out to Izzat Amir at +60196525982.
‘Sanglirsari’ is now available for streaming on various platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, YouTube, Deezer, Anghami, Tidal, and YouTube Music. Music enthusiasts are invited to immerse themselves in Jayzuan’s captivating soundscape and embark on a musical journey that encapsulates the rich tapestry of Southeast Asian culture.
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All images supplied by Projek Rabak.
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