After navigating a challenging journey since their formation in 2019, Malaysian indie band Lokarya is turning a new page with their latest singles, “Pelangi Selepas Hujan” and “Lie”, both of which will feature on their upcoming debut studio album.
The song holds a special place in Lokarya’s journey as it was written by a figure they deeply admire, Noh Salleh.
At its heart, “Pelangi Selepas Hujan” explores the human relationship with God, particularly during moments of hardship, loss, and uncertainty. Inspired by the tendency to sometimes forget or hesitate to return to prayer during difficult times, the song serves as a gentle reminder of faith, hope and surrender.
For Shaheth, its message extends beyond hardship, touching on life, love, destiny, and the importance of placing trust in the Creator.
“For me, this song is not only about the hardships we go through, but also about the hope that follows. Sometimes, we become so caught up searching for answers when perhaps all we need to do is stop and return to God,” Shaheth shared.
The journey towards this new chapter began with “Deruan”, a song that became a crucial milestone in Lokarya’s search for its sound and direction.
Reintroduced last year, “Deruan” attracted attention through RIUH x ASEAN and ultimately became a blueprint for the sound and creative direction of their forthcoming debut album.
For bassist Rafael Ahmad, the song remains an important part of the band’s evolution.
“‘Deruan’ was an important starting point for us. At the time, we were still trying to figure out who Lokarya really was. After going through so many experiences, we are now more confident about the sound and direction we want to pursue,” Rafael said.
The album-making process has also reminded the band that a musical journey is rarely a straight line. Every challenge, change and period of uncertainty has helped them discover their strengths, confront their weaknesses and grow together.
If “Pelangi Selepas Hujan” reflects hope and introspection, “Lie” unveils a more personal and contrasting side of Lokarya.
Written by Shaheth in 2014, the English-language track remained unreleased for years, undergoing several versions before being rediscovered and reimagined with Lokarya.
Its inclusion in the album reflects the band’s willingness to revisit the past while giving old ideas new meaning through their present musical identity.
Both singles will feature on Lokarya’s highly anticipated debut studio album, one of the band’s most significant milestones since its formation.
Rather than confining themselves to a single genre, the album explores different musical colours, arrangements and emotions, with each song given its own character while remaining connected by a common thread.
“We are still maintaining Lokarya’s identity, but with this album, we are more willing to experiment. Every song has its own character, yet there is still a ‘red string’ connecting the entire album,” Rafael explained.
For Lokarya, the album represents more than a collection of songs. It is an introduction to the band they have become in terms of musically, creatively and personally.
Finding the right sound while remaining authentic to their roots was among the band’s biggest challenges. To help translate their creative vision into sound, Lokarya appointed Fai HK as music producer and arranger.
The band is also grateful for the support from the Malaysian Communications & Multimedia Commission (MCMC) and MyCreative Ventures through Rumah Muzik Production, which helped make the professional production of the album possible.
Ultimately, Lokarya hopes their music can become more than something people simply listen to, as they want it to become a companion through different chapters of life.
“We want Lokarya’s music to become something people can return to at certain moments in their lives. If our songs can become a companion to someone, that alone would mean so much to us,” said Taka.
The band is also planning future touring and special performances to connect with audiences and bring their music to a wider stage. From “Deruan” to “Pelangi Selepas Hujan” and “Lie”, Lokarya is no longer simply searching for its voice. They are ready to own it.
“Pelangi Selepas Hujan” and “Lie” are now available on all digital streaming platforms. For the latest updates, follow Lokarya on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube via @lokaryamusic.
