Album Review: Selatan by Pijar – A Rock Gem from Indonesia You Need to Hear
Alright, let’s talk about Selatan by Pijar. Released back in 2015 under Etalase Records, this Indonesian rock album is one of those hidden gems that sneaks up on you when you least expect it. It’s got grit, heart, and just enough edge to keep things interesting without trying too hard. The band’s lineup reads like a DIY dream team, with members pulling double (or triple) duties—like M. Fadel Alfredo (aka Jakjek), who handles vocals, graphics, and illustrations. Respect.
Now, I’m not gonna lie—the whole album has its moments, but two tracks really stuck with me: “Cinta Remaja” and “Boogie Night.” Let me break it down for ya.
First off, “Cinta Remaja.” Man, this song hits different. It’s got this raw energy that feels super relatable, like teenage love mixed with late-night existential crises. The guitar work from Ichsan Candra Kesuma (Ican) is tight as hell, and the backing vocals add this layer of nostalgia that makes you wanna rewind your life to those awkward high school days. Like, yeah, we’ve all been there—crushing hard, overthinking everything, and probably embarrassing ourselves in front of someone cute. This track captures that vibe perfectly. Every time I hear it, I’m reminded of why rock music still matters—it speaks to real feelings without sugarcoating anything.
Then there’s “Boogie Night,” which is basically the opposite mood but equally unforgettable. If “Cinta Remaja” is introspective, this one is straight-up fun. Drummer Aulia ("Aul") absolutely kills it here, laying down beats so infectious they’ll have you tapping your feet even if you’re sitting at your desk pretending to work. There’s also some synth action thrown into the mix courtesy of Ican, giving the track this retro-futuristic groove that screams, “Let loose!” Honestly, it’s impossible not to smile while listening to this one. It’s the kind of song that could turn any random Tuesday night into an impromptu dance party.
What’s cool about Selatan is how unpretentious it feels. These guys aren’t reinventing rock—they’re just doing it their way, with passion and personality. And honestly, isn’t that what music should be about? No flashy gimmicks, no overproduced nonsense—just solid tunes played by people who clearly love what they do.
Oh, and can we take a sec to appreciate Teuku Maurah Lizam (Lizam)? Dude plays bass AND provides backing vocals, which is impressive enough, but he also seems like the glue holding everything together. Props to him and the rest of the crew for making this project come alive.
Anyway, wrapping this up—I don’t know if Selatan will change your life or whatever, but it sure made mine a little brighter. Listening to it feels like hanging out with old friends who get you, flaws and all. So if you’re into rock music with soul and a touch of Indonesian flair, give this album a spin. Who knows? Maybe you’ll find yourself boogie-ing through your own nights—or reminiscing about teenage heartbreaks. Either way, it’s worth it.
P.S. Fun fact: Did you notice how Jakjek did the art AND sang? Talk about multitasking goals. Makes me wonder what else these dudes are capable of. Space travel? Saving endangered species? Baking award-winning cookies? The possibilities are endless.
