Long time ago, Skabanton, a ska group from Surabaya, Indonesia, released their debut “The Master of Situation” album. Now, after a decade has passed, they return with musical prowess through their sophomore album “Kian Kemari,” released on December 23, 2023. This album is distributed through Trek Rekords. 

Skabanton spent around 10 months to complete this comeback which came with nine songs. They also got backed up by several guest artists to enhance the compositions, such as Bruss (The Sukudalu) who lent the vocals in “Muak,” Abednego shared his percussion in “Tersesat,” and Ridwan SW (Wawa) played several lead guitar parts and background vocals alongside Maria Angela Dhani and Yaner Irawan. 

The highlight track in this album is “Waru (Di Batas Kota Itu).” According to Skabanton, it is about a destination where they gather and find inspiration for their creative endeavors. The border area between Surabaya and Sidoarjo provides significant inspiration to tell stories about the surroundings without ignoring the social reality. Whether it’s the noise of the industry to the street-life, iron and steel-esque, even a splash of twilight love. This release is of course highly recommended by Kultur as a piece worth enjoying ska. Go get ready, and listen to Skabanton’s “Kian Kemari” on your favorite music platforms!

(Keyko, Sam)