Album Review: Benalu Benalu by Tumor Ganas – A Grindcore Gem from Indonesia
If you’re into raw, unfiltered rock with a grindcore edge, Benalu Benalu by Tumor Ganas is one album that’ll punch you right in the gut (in a good way). Released back in 2007 on Noiseblast Records, this Indonesian beast of an album doesn’t hold back. It’s loud, chaotic, and dripping with attitude—basically everything you want from grindcore.
The album kicks off with some absolute bangers, but two tracks stuck out to me like a sore thumb: “Terserah Kaulah” and “Diam Bukan Lagi Emas.” Let’s talk about “Terserah Kaulah” first. This track is just relentless. The riffs hit hard, like someone’s throwing bricks at your ears—but hey, isn’t that what we love about grindcore? There’s this moment where the vocals go full throttle, almost screaming-yelling-growling all at once, and it feels like they’re letting out years of pent-up frustration. Honestly, it’s kinda cathartic. You don’t even need to understand the lyrics to feel the energy—it translates straight through the noise.
Then there’s “Diam Bukan Lagi Emas,” which flips the script a little. While still heavy as heck, it’s got these weird pauses between the chaos that make you think for half a second before smacking you again. It’s like they’re playing mind games with you, keeping you on edge. That title, roughly translating to “Silence Isn’t Golden Anymore,” says it all. It’s angry, it’s noisy, and it reminds you silence can be overrated when you’ve got something to say—or scream.
Other tracks like “Obsesif Posesif” and “Legalisasi Ilegalisasi” keep the vibe going strong, blending social commentary with face-melting guitar work. And let’s not forget “Fear Behind Your Fearless,” which sounds exactly how its name suggests—a deep dive into paranoia wrapped up in crunchy distortion.
What makes Benalu Benalu stand out is how unapologetically Indonesian it feels. Sure, grindcore has roots everywhere, but hearing it come alive in Southeast Asia adds this whole new layer of grit and authenticity. Plus, kudos to Noiseblast Records for putting out such a wild ride of an album.
So yeah, this record won’t be everyone’s cup of tea. If you’re more into chill acoustic vibes or pop hits, maybe steer clear. But if you’re ready to embrace the madness, Benalu Benalu delivers. Listening to it feels like being part of a secret underground movement—one that punches back against boredom and complacency.
And honestly? After blasting this album, I couldn’t help but wonder… do Tumor Ganas ever take breaks? Like, do they hang out and eat nasi goreng after recording sessions? Because if so, sign me up for that dinner party.
