The Iban rock band Masterpiece has released a new single titled “Menyadi”, which reinterprets the concept of sibling bonds, extending it beyond blood relations to encompass close friendships.
Vocalist Depha Masterpiece explained that the song reflects on friendships that endure hardships, likening these connections to sibling relationships.
“The song is not just about siblings by blood, but also about the friends who stand by us through thick and thin,” he said at a press conference held at MasterJam Rock N Roll Music Café and Bistro on Sept. 7.
He added that the track also pays tribute to friends who have passed away, with lyrics such as “atiku diatu gaga disempulang sinu, labuh ai mata ngenang kitai timpang siku”, which translate to, “I am happy yet sad as my tears fall, remembering we are missing one”.
According to Depha, these words express the bittersweet feeling of losing someone close while keeping their memory alive.
Depha revealed that the idea for “Menyadi” came to him spontaneously while driving, and the song took shape quickly.
“I wrote the lyrics in the car, then worked on the melody and collaborated with the rest of the band to bring the song to life,” he said.
Masterpiece, known for exploring various themes in their music, aims to offer diversity in their songwriting.
“We do not focus solely on rock music. Our songs touch on love, loss, success, family, and friendship. This time, we wanted to highlight the bond of ‘Menyadi’,” Depha said, referencing the Malay proverb “Air dicencang takkan putus” (Water when slashed will not break) to underscore the unbreakable nature of these relationships.
Lead guitarist Willy Edwin added that the song also reflects the camaraderie within the band.
“We may not be related by blood, but we consider each other brothers. We’ve been through a lot together, and we hope this song reinforces that bond,” he said.
He also noted that compared to previous releases, “Menyadi” has a lighter, more relaxed tone, though its lyrics carry significant emotional depth and a positive message.
Fifteen hours after its release, “Menyadi”, launched via the WaveMix Production Sdn Bhd YouTube channel, garnered 3,000 views and 448 likes.
Formed in 2003 as Masterjam, Masterpiece is best known for their hit singles “Sinu”, “Kumang Seari”, and “Ngarap Ka Nuan Nikal Pulai”.
The group comprises vocalist Depha Masterpiece, lead guitarist Willy Edwin, guitarist Kennedy Edwin @ Kent Masterpiece, bassist Marcus Masterpiece, drummer Harold Vincent @ Iho Masterpiece, keyboardist Valentine Jimmy @ Emek Masterpiece, and Roslee Qadir @ Lee Masterpiece.
