Ready to Ryot
> One of Malaysia’s most unique bands prepares to take the next step with its debut studio single
impromptu music on a loop, the lyrics of the song soon flowed naturally.
Kyren explains that is how he writes most of his songs for the band – he hates writing lyrics, but enjoys structuring melodies of the songs.
And from there, the boys just continue to fine-tune the music, and experiment with different sounds to make it better.
“It’s very organic,” adds Kyren. “The energy that comes out of that moment, and then we work with it over time.
“Like, Dancing Shoes, the first time we ever heard it, it sounds so different from how it sounds now. It’s about [how time polishes] it, what vibes we’re testing on it, and what I’m trying to say with it.”
Kyren also stresses that when it comes to creating music, chemistry is important, especially in a band with so many members.
“We’re like best friends, all of us. We have barbecues, we hang out, and we go out for dinner with each other. “So, I think that energy shows itself.” Making the move to finally record and release its debut studio single is a bold step for this unconventional band, who stands out not just because of the number of its members, but also because of its uniquely funk vibes, with trumpet and saxophone merging harmoniously with other instruments.
However, the boys refuse to limit themselves to one specific genre, preferring to perform with the goal of entertaining as many people as possible, and prioritising live performances over studio recordings.
Kyren says: “We call ourselves ‘festival funk’, which I don’t think is an actual genre. It’s a performance.
“And [the emphasis is] on the word ‘performance’, because it’s not only what you hear, it’s what you see as well.
“We practise really awkwardly in the studio trying to dance, so, it’s always a good time [when] you’re listening to it.”
The band members’ relationships with one another can be likened to the characters in the Fast and Furious films, where the concept of ‘family’ is key.
That camaraderie continues to show on stage as well.
“We’re a bit self-indulgent in our own music,” Kyren quips. “We love what we play. It’s very genuine, because it’s us.
“I feel really lucky to have found my voice. I wouldn’t trade them for anything.”