Singer‘s new single marks milestone

Lyia and Zack in action on stage in Navigator

WHEN it comes to the pub circuit, the duo of Lyia and Zack are familiar faces, having played at various venues throughout the Klang Valley and beyond over the years.

Few, however, know that Lyia is also an accomplished songwriter who has already released one EP, This is Lyia, in 2015 and, just this week, a single and video entitled Without Walls, under the name Lyia Meta.

The single made its global debut on Jan 25 on UK-based online station Radio Wigwam and the video, which was self-produced, can be seen on YouTube.

Without Walls showcases Lyia’s powerful, slightly husky vocals very well, and the video has an arty feel that resonates with the lyrics.

“About a year back, I went through a tough time and I couldn’t seem to find words anymore. That was where the inspiration for the song came,” Lyia said.

She explained that she wanted the video to be something that told a story alongside the lyrics, and she feels that as an artist, the song is more important than her.

“I’m old school, I believe the song is more important that the artist. I also wanted to keep an independent feel to the song,” Lyia explained.

When asked why her latest release was a single instead of another EP, Lyia said that as an independent artist, she decided to start with just the single but hopes to release more in future and, eventually, compile it into an album.

“It is a hard time for musicians and any album or single we release needs funding. I’ve invested so much in the industry, it’s important to have something I can remember,” she said.

Lyia’s first EP garnered her some international attention, with the song Slumber picking up the Gold Award in the rock ballad category at the California-based Global Music Awards in Kuala Lumpur. Lyia was also named Best Overall Female Act at the VIMA 2016.

She felt humbled that her EP had received such recognition overseas and urged young musicians to explore all avenues including online radio to get their songs out.

“As an indie musician, it can be hard to get your voice heard. Major radio stations are not going to simply pick you up so you have to find an avenue that works for you,” she said.

You can catch Lyia and Zack in action every Thursday night in Navigator’s Bar and Bistro in Jaya One, Petaling Jaya. For more information on the duo, visit their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/zacklyia/