When Truedy Duality released their latest single, “A Mad Deus Most Art”, it wasn’t just a nod to Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart—it was a deliberate disruption. The experimental rock duo from Bali, comprised of pianist and vocalist Truedy Sabatini and drummer Norbertus Rizki (aka Kiki), crafted a sonic homage that merged classical artistry with the raw defiance of punk rock.
“Mozart was vulgar, expressive, and unapologetically honest,” Truedy explained. “His personality radiates the rebellious spirit of punk rock, and that’s the energy we wanted to channel.” The song’s title, when spoken aloud, humorously mirrors the name of the legendary composer. But the playfulness of its name belies the intensity and depth of the track’s musical and emotional exploration.
Breaking Convention: The Art of Minimalism
What makes Truedy Duality stand out is their bold rejection of conventional band setups. Guitars and bass have been stripped from their arrangements, replaced with a focus on piano and drums. The result is a minimalist yet immersive soundscape that forces listeners to reimagine the boundaries of rock.
“We wanted to create something uniquely ours,” said Truedy. “With just the piano and drums, every note and rhythm carries more weight. It’s a raw, unfiltered approach that aligns with our concept of art punk and avant-garde.”
The sonic experimentation extends beyond instrumentation. Tracks like “A Mad Deus Most Art” blend baroque pop melodies with gritty punk undertones, weaving intricate piano riffs with thunderous percussion. The sound is both chaotic and calculated, a reflection of the duo’s creative chemistry.
Collaboration with Pohon Tua Creatorium
Truedy and Kiki’s partnership with Pohon Tua Creatorium (PTC) has been transformative. Under the guidance of producer Dadang SH Pranoto—known for his work with Navicula and Dialog Dini Hari—the duo has found a space to challenge their limits.
“Mas Dang gave us the freedom to explore and encouraged us to push boundaries,” Truedy shared. “His ability to bring out the best in us, both as musicians and creators, is unparalleled.”
In the controlled chaos of PTC’s creative environment, Truedy’s wild spontaneity and Kiki’s rebellious energy found a harmonious balance. “It’s a place where we can be fearless,” Kiki added. “We’ve learned to channel our raw ideas into something impactful and meaningful.”
From Local Recognition to National Influence
Individually, both members of Truedy Duality bring impressive credentials. Truedy, who previously released solo works like “Procrastination” and “One Thing,” has long been celebrated for her emotive piano playing and powerful vocals. Kiki, a designer by day and drummer by night, has been a staple in Bali’s music scene, performing with bands like Zat Kimia, Garden Groove, and Sendawa.
However, it is their collaboration as Truedy Duality that has elevated their artistry to new heights. The duo’s eclectic influences and fearless approach to music have earned them accolades from both local and national audiences.
The Making of “A Mad Deus Most Art”
Released on digital platforms and accompanied by a lyric video on YouTube, “A Mad Deus Most Art” is an anthem of defiance and creativity. The track’s baroque-inspired piano melodies are juxtaposed with driving drumbeats, creating a tension that mirrors its thematic exploration of rebellion and freedom.
“The idea for the song came from Mozart’s ability to be both genius and subversive,” Truedy explained. “His music was revolutionary, but so was his attitude. He wasn’t afraid to be provocative.”
This duality—of order and chaos, structure and rebellion—is reflected in the song’s arrangement. The piano becomes a vessel for intricate storytelling, while the drums provide a relentless, grounding force.
A Lyric Video with Artistic Flair
The lyric video for “A Mad Deus Most Art”, released on September 10, 2020, adds another layer of complexity to the track. Combining abstract visuals with bold typography, the video captures the song’s energy and spirit. “It’s not just a video; it’s an extension of the song,” Truedy remarked. “Every frame is designed to provoke thought and emotion.”
With plans to release an official music video in the near future, Truedy Duality aims to further immerse their audience in their artistic vision.
Pushing Towards a Full-Length Album
For Truedy and Kiki, “A Mad Deus Most Art” is just the beginning. The duo is hard at work on a full-length album, which they hope will cement their reputation as trailblazers in Indonesia’s music scene.
“Our goal this year is productivity,” Truedy revealed. “We want to finish an album that resonates with people, something that leaves a lasting impact.”
A Vision Beyond Music
Truedy Duality’s artistry extends beyond music. Their performances are as much about visual storytelling as they are about sound. From their minimalist setup to their bold stage presence, every aspect of their work is meticulously crafted to challenge perceptions.
“It’s not just about the music,” Noriz Kiki explained. “It’s about creating an experience. We want our audience to feel something profound, to leave with questions and ideas.”
An Experimental Legacy
By blending genres and breaking conventions, Truedy Duality is redefining what it means to be an experimental rock band in Indonesia. Their work is a testament to the power of collaboration, the importance of creative freedom, and the transformative potential of music.
With “A Mad Deus Most Art”, Truedy Duality invites listeners into a world where Mozart meets punk, where tradition collides with innovation, and where every note is a step towards something extraordinary.
About Truedy Duality
Hailing from Bali, Indonesia, Truedy Duality is an experimental rock duo known for their minimalist setup and genre-defying sound. Truedy Sabatini, a pianist and vocalist, began her career with solo projects in 2018 under the name Get Truedy. Kiki, a designer and drummer, has performed with several notable bands, including Zat Kimia and Garden Groove. Together, they create music that challenges conventions and pushes the boundaries of rock.