Lingkar Cendala, band post metal from Karawang, officially released their debut single titled “Catastrophe” on October 25, 2024. This single marks the first step towards a full album scheduled for release in 2025. For this band, “Catastrophe” signifies a major transformation, both in terms of personnel formation and the genre of music they are pursuing.
Starting in 2020, Lingkar Cendala was formed by two original members, Desta Ericksen (vocals/guitar) and Briansyah (bass), who initially played garage punk music. After several changes in members, their formation is now complete with the presence of Amelia Putri (vocals), Rifqi (guitar), and Tama (drums). With this new formation, Lingkar Cendala now focuses on carrying the genres of doom and post metal, a bold step that brings a new color to their musical journey.
In the single “Catastrophe,” Lingkar Cendala presents a dark musical atmosphere, in line with sharp and reflective lyrics on the current social conditions. Although their music is heavy and dark, Amelia Putri’s soothing and folk-influenced vocals provide an interesting balance. Amelia, with her soft vocals, adds a new dimension that enriches the atmosphere of doom and post metal that they have created.
According to Desta Ericksen, the song is inspired by various social and political events in Indonesia, including the dystopian nostalgia that emerged from the 1998 reformation era and the grim reality felt again in 2024. “Catastrophe” is their critical view of the corruption of the system, nepotism, corruption, and the worsening environmental damage, such as floods and pollution.
The production process of this single was done independently. Desta took on the roles of producer, arranger, and recording at home. The mixing and mastering process was entrusted to Septian Satriani from Unseen Record, who is also a former drummer for Lingkar Cendala.
Musically, they are greatly inspired by big bands like Black Sabbath, Sigmun, and Touche Amore, giving strong influences of doom, post-hardcore, and post-metal in this song. With the release of “Catastrophe” on various digital streaming platforms, Lingkar Cendala opens a new chapter in their musical journey.
This transformation not only provides a new atmosphere for their fans but also shows their courage in experimenting and expressing social criticism through music.