Elmu Hisab is a Malaysian band that defies any attempt to categorize them into simple, common genres. They’re part experimental, part post-punk, part rock, part… many things, as based on what we’ve heard and seen. So maybe it’s best for you to check out their performances, and decide for yourself!
Note: The first Elmu Hisab video comes out on 22nd March 2019. Second video will be released on Monday (25th of March). And the final video on Wednesday (27th of March). All at 3pm!
Elmu Hisab: genesis.
Elmu Hisab is a three-piece band from the northern Malaysian state of Kedah. They were formed in 2013 when Joe (bass), Ben (guitar) and Alan (drums) moved to Kuala Lumpur.
They started off with a few jamming sessions a month, before progressing to performing at gigs around town. And by the end of 2016, they hit the studios to work on their debut record, “Ademonstration“, which was released in August 2017.
The band decided to take an experimental approach on this release. Choosing to only start the songwriting process in the jamming studio, they agreed to preserve whatever mood that came out of the jamming sessions into the record.
And suffice to say, “Ademonstration” certainly does demonstrate the unique sound that propels the band in their shows.
That… sound.
So we asked the band to explain a little bit more about their music.
We listen to a lot of the stuff that came out of the 80s/90’s Seattle and New York noise/punk scenes.
Citing bands like Sonic Youth, Shellac, Melvins and Swans as their influences, Elmu Hisab’s blend of music is sludgy, experimental and brooding. Their song arrangements work well with the heavy guitar/bass tones and huge drum sounds. As a result, the final product sounds much larger than what you’d expect in a three-piece band.
The Jitra factor.
We asked the band if they believe your craft is shaped by where you’re from.
Definitely.. It’s a small, close-knit community that’s got a distinct [music] sound.
The band feels that the camaraderie and shared musical influences finds its way into the music that’s produced. Especially when you learn from each other and do things (gigs, shows) together.
Watch our exclusive interview with Elmu Hisab and learn more about the band, and about how Northern Malaysia has had an impact on them:
You can check out the band on Spotify, iTunes, Deezer and other digital channels – just search for The Wknd Sessions Ep. 109 on your favorite stores!
