THE STAR NEWSPAPER
Thursday 5 Februray 2009

ON THE RACK
Compiled by DARLY GOH
entertainment@thestar.com.my 
 

The Rhaman - Lagu Satu Tahun EP
I-Bands Records


   DODGY dangdut dens, skin-heads roaming shopping mall and ropey heavy metal bands - well, that's the first impression of the Malacca music scene. Precious little is known about the indiepop scene in such a musically overlooked state. But as soon as you get your ears around The Rhaman Lagu Satu Tahun EP, you realise that there is something special stirring up in Jasin,Malacca, a district town with unlikely claim now to one of the nation's most attractive and infectious indie newcomers. 

   The band's first mainstream release, featuring six Malay tracks, reflects a cocksure sensibility overlayed with a keen Britpop fascination. The Rhaman, circulating since 2005, boasts a six-piece with a likeable, lively sound that can shift between rockin' swagger to an alluring joget shinding in a blink.
In yuyun, a minx of vocalist with unmistakably flirty Malay female voice, the band has someone upfront to melat the hearts of a nation of smitten Vespa-riding Mods. If only she doest't let slip her overzealous rock chick accent too much, which admittedly, can be grating. More subtlety would be nice. Not that it hinders the band's catchy, skinny-fit hooks and swirly keyboard action on this EP. 

   Hardly back-up musicians, the blokes in the band deserve a mention for the bright, playful pop done with verve. Little gems like the pumpin'Sekutu Kuat Berangan and the lovestruck Tahu Kau Tahu are such joyous affairs. A further clean up for radio and this bunch will be genuine contenders.