The essence of life lies in its cycles—living and nurturing, growing and fostering growth. These themes, deeply connected to the way we care for and cherish the world around us, form the heart of Soul and Kith’s latest single, “Sorrow.” This powerful track weaves a narrative of loss, anger, and fear through the unique lens of two plants cared for differently by two individuals.
In vocalist Aik’s own words, “Every living being, when cared for with love and affection, will flourish. But when treated carelessly, it will wither and die.” This sentiment drives the song’s emotional core, offering a universal message about the delicate balance of life and the importance of nurturing not only others but also ourselves. For Aik, “Sorrow” embodies the fiery passion that fuels his creativity and artistry.
A Special Release for a Dynamic Duo
The release of “Sorrow” is more than just another milestone for Aik and Ardy, the duo behind Soul and Kith. It represents the continued evolution of their musical journey, their ability to experiment with sound and visual storytelling, and their commitment to meaningful creation. Adding to the excitement, “Sorrow” has been accompanied by a captivating music video, unveiled at Rumah Sanur as part of the Participles Vol. 02 event hosted by Pohon Tua Creatorium.
The video, a collaboration with professional dancer and theater community member Jacko Wahyu Rizky and longtime friend Guntur Putra, is a visual representation of the song’s themes. Their movements and performances bring the narrative to life, offering an evocative depiction of loss and its emotional aftermath.
A Story Rooted in Deep Emotion
“Sorrow” reflects the anguish of loss and the fear that accompanies it. Aik revealed the personal inspiration behind the song, recounting a poignant moment of grief: “I remember crying as I watched the plants I had cared for so lovingly wilt, dry out, and die in a place I once called home.”
The emotional weight of this experience influenced the song’s composition. Ardy described the creative process: “At first, I wasn’t sure what instruments to use. After some exploration, I decided to incorporate floor toms and crash cymbals as symbols of anger and loss, while the looping and ambient guitar parts represent the lingering sadness and sense of emptiness.”
The result is a hauntingly beautiful track that merges raw emotion with innovative soundscapes.
Guided by Pohon Tua Creatorium
As with many of their projects, Soul and Kith received valuable input from Dadang SH Pranoto, also known as Pohon Tua, who produced the track. His guidance helped shape “Sorrow” into one of the standout songs on Soul and Kith’s mini-album Kacamuka.
But the collaboration didn’t stop at music. With the absence of live performances during the pandemic, Soul and Kith turned their creativity toward visual art. Inspired by “Sorrow,” the duo created a series of paintings that encapsulate the song’s themes. These works were exhibited alongside pieces by renowned artist Made Bayak at the gallery in Rumah Sanur.
Art Meets Action
The artistic expression of “Sorrow” extends beyond the gallery walls. Several of Soul and Kith’s paintings were auctioned online starting September 10, 2020, through the Kawanbaik.co website. The proceeds were donated to support the construction of schools in Sumba, Mbinu Dita, through the Kawan Baik Indonesia Foundation and the Fair Future Foundation.
This initiative underscores Soul and Kith’s belief that art can serve a greater purpose, connecting people and driving positive change.
A Multi-Sensory Experience
In both its sonic and visual elements, “Sorrow” is a testament to the duo’s ability to craft multi-dimensional art. The song is not only an auditory journey but also a visual and emotional one, enriched by its accompanying music video and paintings.
The themes of loss, care, and renewal resonate deeply, encouraging listeners to reflect on their relationships—with nature, with others, and with themselves. Soul and Kith have created a piece that is as introspective as it is universal, a rare accomplishment in today’s music landscape.
Aik and Ardy’s Creative Evolution
Soul and Kith’s ability to continually evolve and experiment is a hallmark of their artistry. With “Sorrow,” they’ve embraced new forms of expression, integrating music, dance, and painting into a cohesive narrative.
The partnership with Pohon Tua Creatorium has undoubtedly played a role in their growth, providing a platform for exploration and innovation. As part of PTC’s Participles series, “Sorrow” is a shining example of what can be achieved when artists are given the space and support to push boundaries.
A Song with Purpose
More than just a single, “Sorrow” is a project with purpose. From its heartfelt lyrics and intricate instrumentation to its visually stunning music video and meaningful art auction, every aspect of the release reflects a commitment to creativity and community.
As Aik and Ardy continue to explore new avenues for their art, they remain steadfast in their mission to create work that inspires and connects. “Sorrow” is a reminder that even in moments of despair, there is beauty to be found and lessons to be learned.
Looking Ahead
With “Sorrow” marking another significant chapter in Soul and Kith’s journey, the duo shows no signs of slowing down. Their willingness to take risks and explore new artistic mediums ensures that their work remains fresh and impactful.
For listeners and fans, “Sorrow” is more than just a song—it’s an invitation to reflect, to connect, and to grow. In a world often defined by chaos and uncertainty, Soul and Kith offer a glimmer of hope, a reminder that through care and compassion, we can nurture not only ourselves but also the world around us.