Lunarin
Biography
If Lunarin had to choose to deliver a message with the music, it would be that contrasting elements can and do work. The band's biggest breakthrough was perhaps to balance melodic female vocals with hard-hitting riffs and drumbeats, while at the same time, to indulge themselves in a myriad of styles reminiscent of art-rock and metal. Contradiction should have been the band's moniker.
Described by music journalist Sujin Thomas as "Tori Amos on acid", the band's brand of dark and heavy music has been described as "Tool meets Kate Bush"; "Tori Amos fronts A Perfect Circle" and has been likened to the dark soundscapes of 4AD bands by music critics and radio deejays.
Indeed, it is not difficult to see why the music of Lunarin has evoked extreme reactions from listeners. The music has been capable of arousing a deep sense of anger and bitterness in naysayer. It has also been capable of evoking great feelings of sadness and ambivalence in the lovers and supporters of the music. Given the manner in which the songs are written and delivered, it is impossible to be neutral about Lunarin - the songs take you hostage, sometimes even when you don't want to.
Embracing contradiction and challenging norms however, comes with a price. Critics have questioned the band's machinations, both in their effort in releasing a concept album (their debut album, "The Chrysalis") as well as their obtuse references to mythology and the occult. Supporters however, have embraced the band's ideology that all songs come from the Muse and that the Chrysalis was intended to be a concept album, not because the band willed it to be so, but because it was always meant to be.
It is impossible to pass judgment on the band and its music from hearsay. You will have to listen to the band and decide for yourself. Lunarin are:
Ho Kah Wye – guitar, vocals
Linda Joelle Ong – vocals, bass
Loo Eng Teck – drums, vocals, piano