Looking for fresh local music to check out?
These new releases explore heartbreak, identity and emotional healing, all wrapped in catchy melodies and honest lyrics. Here’s what to add to your playlist this week.
Dukes – “Bila Kau Datang Menangis”
Indie band Dukes turns heartbreak into power with their new single, “Bila Kau Datang Menangis.” The song tells the story of someone who’s tired of being treated as a backup, only loved when it’s convenient. With a more mature pop rock sound, it’s all about finding the strength to let go and choose self-worth.
With guidance from Taja of Meet Uncle Hussain, this marks Dukes’ first collaboration with the veteran musician, resulting in a fresh, more dynamic arrangement. The band admits it pushed them both technically and emotionally, forcing them out of their comfort zone to create something raw and real.
Listen to “Bila Kau Datang Menangis” on all major streaming platforms.
CISCO – “MatKewl”
Cisco’s latest single “MatKewl” brings a fresh twist to the alt-rock scene with a local touch that feels natural and authentic. Infused with Perak dialect and clever use of Malay proverbs, the song stands out for how it blends cultural identity with modern rock vibes. Although not all members are from Perak, the band sees the accent as a proud nod to their roots, with drummer Nik Aqil calling it a bucket list moment.
Lyrically, “MatKewl” is about ego, image, and the fake confidence people show in social settings. The character ‘MatKewl’ reflects the kind of persona we put on to fit in, inspired by the band’s own experiences with quiet judgment and unspoken criticism.
“MatKewl” is now available to stream on all platforms.
Eleven Tonight – “So Long Goodbye, My Temporary High”
“So Long Goodbye, My Temporary High,” is a gripping reflection on emotional addiction and the aftermath of a toxic relationship. Written in 2023 and released in 2025, the track captures the feeling of chasing fleeting highs while quietly breaking apart inside. With lyrics like “drank all the poison cause it tasted sweet”, it speaks to the inner conflict of knowing something is bad for you but craving it anyway. It’s tender, intense, and painfully relatable for anyone who’s ever tried to love through the wreckage.
The music video brings this emotional spiral to life through haunting visuals. Set in a quiet cottage surrounded by greenery, it follows a woman as she navigates the lingering presence of a past love, portrayed as a phantom she can’t seem to escape. The story unfolds like a fever dream, blending memory and illusion to show how hard it is to break free from something that once felt like everything.
Watch the music video for “So Long Goodbye, My Temporary High” on YouTube, and stream the song on all platforms.
