If there’s one band I’m keeping on my radar this year, it’s Joy Manifesto.
Hailing from West Java, Indonesia, this indie-rock quartet has completely blown me away with their debut EP, “Collide.” Honestly, it doesn’t feel like a first attempt at all. Overflowing with polished soundscapes, raw emotions, and cohesive storytelling, this EP hits all the right notes. Joy Manifesto knows exactly who they are and what they want to say—and I’m here for it.
Whether you’re into indie-rock or just appreciate music that feels personal, “Collide” has something special to offer. Across its five tracks—“Catfish,” “Pretty Little Liar,” “Doom,” “Memento,” and “Outlier”—the EP dives deep into the messy, chaotic side of love and relationships. Themes of betrayal, heartbreak, and self-discovery flow through every song, almost like chapters in an emotional rollercoaster of a story.
Striking The Perfect Harmony
From the first note of “Catfish” to the explosive finale of “Outlier,” I couldn’t help but be impressed by how balanced and cohesive the production is. Every instrument has its place—nothing feels out of sync or overpowering. The guitars shimmer, the bass grooves smoothly, and the drums hit just right. It’s the kind of sound that immediately pulls you in.
And then there’s Fadli Rizki’s vocals—oh my. His voice is so clear that you can hear every single word, something I don’t always get with indie-rock bands. Usually, I expect more abstract, drowned-out vocals, but here, Fadli connects directly with the listener. It feels personal, almost like he’s singing directly to you.
What stands out most is how easy this EP is to listen to. Even if alternative rock isn’t your usual genre, “Collide” makes you feel at home. The music is layered with depth, but still accessible—something I think is incredibly hard to pull off.
“Memento”: A Dreamy Prelude To Heartbreak
If I had to pick a favourite track, “Memento” would win hands down. Its melody is so unique, especially in the chorus—it’s unconventional, almost unpredictable, but in the best way. There’s something about its dreamy, mood-setting quality that stays with you long after the track ends.
The lyrics hit like poetry set to music. Lines like, “When I look into your eyes / Remembrance that I despise / Flabbergasted by surprise / You cheated on me” are painfully beautiful. You feel the sting of betrayal, the heartbreak, and the weight of emotions, all wrapped in this hauntingly gorgeous melody.
To me, “Memento” feels like the perfect prequel to “Outlier.” It’s almost like the two songs are having a conversation, one setting the mood and the other delivering the emotional climax.
A Global Sound That Knows No Boundaries
Here’s the thing—if I didn’t already know Joy Manifesto was an Indonesian band, I’d have thought they were a Western indie-rock group. Their music has this global appeal that feels polished, yet authentic. The production is on par with anything you’d hear from international bands, and the themes they explore are universal—love, heartbreak, and the chaos in between.
For a debut EP, “Collide” is unbelievably mature. It doesn’t feel like a tentative first step; it feels like a bold statement. They know their sound, their message, and their identity, and they’re not afraid to let it shine.
So, if you’re in the mood for music that captures the complexity of love in all its messy glory, give “Collide” a spin. Whether you start with the brooding tones of “Doom” or jump straight into the anthemic energy of “Outlier,” this EP is bound to leave a lasting impression.
And hey, don’t forget to check out their Instagram @joymanifesto_ to keep up with their journey. Trust me, after listening to “Collide,” you’ll want to see what they do next—because I know I do.
