“Ruang Hitam” by Monkey Boots, a music unit from Jakarta with a solid and militant fanbase, is an intriguing work. In the final trimester of 2024, they delivered a track with a contemplative ambience. The boundary between Rocksteady and Lover’s Rock becomes irrelevant, as they bring forth a crucial message within the narrative of this song.
Edwin Maulana, the frontman better known by the moniker Tuan Jenggo, once again delivers a piece that solidifies his standing as one of the champions of Jamaican sound in the country. Opening the song with falsetto, he immediately takes the listener on a journey of emotional intensity, with vulnerable landscapes within it.
The empathetic narrative, “Ruang Hitam” becomes deeply touching with the piano’s chimes accompanied by a string section throughout the song. The signature delay-reverb ornaments typical in dub/reggae compositions are also utilized thoughtfully. It’s perfectly balanced—just right for the piece.
What we must pay close attention to in this song is Monkey Boots’ effort to bring social realities into the music of “Ruang Hitam.” A new—good—inspirational—and at the same time thought-provoking choice in the Indonesian ska repertoire. Forget the dance for a moment, just grab your own glasses by yourself.
“Ruang Hitam” encourages us to acknowledge the terrifying nature of unspoken hopelessness. Monkey Boots urges us to be mindful of this despair and to approach it with wisdom, reminding us to take thoughtful steps together.
