Ever seen the words “Murphy Radio” written on someone else’s shirt somewhere? Well, it was actually a math rock band. Perhaps you’re still not familiar with it: this genre is currently all over the internet.

Where it all started

Murphy Radio’s long journey began when it was first formed in 2012. Now, the band has been around for over a decade and still continues to deliver music. Origin of ‘Murphy Radio‘ name was actually inspired by a line from an Indian movie called ‘Barfi’.

The original members at that time were Wendra, Aldi Yamin, and Akbartus Ponganan. However, Akbartus left the band in 2017 and was replaced by Aswin Winata as drummer. Aswin eventually became a full-time member and still remains active until now.

”Besides line-up changes, the band also explored few genres before finally settled on math rock as their main course.”

Math rock: the new relationship anthem

The Samarinda-based band is currently the hottest topic around in the scene. And with good reason: they have over 100,000 listeners on Spotify. Their hit song called ‘Graduation Song’, has even reached over 2 million listeners so far.

Unlike the title, the song actually discusses how two people who resist welcoming separation. This tragic tale opens with a melodic groove and drum beat that follows in the very first minute. In several TikTok videos, ‘Graduation Song’ became karaoke anthem that everyone sing out loud.

”Lyrics such as “How do we get through it all?” and “With long enough time no one can refuse separation” seem to represent the complicated situation of romance.”

Since there is no official explanation of the meaning, everyone has their own perspective. Some say that ‘Graduation Song’ is a symbol of major changes in life and fear of uncertainty. Yet, it is indeed great when a song can be interpreted differently by each listener.

Another song titled “Penghujung Cerita” which means ”The End of the Story” also narrate a farewell. Moreover, the artwork for this song depicts a bird that fly freely. Seems that it was a symbol of letting go all the beautiful chapter that has been closed.

Celebrate pain without tears

The math rock fever doesn’t stop there. Another song from Eleventwelfth, titled “Your Head as My Favorite Bookstore,” also became a fan favorite. The music video was even streamed 1.9 million times on YouTube. We can see how math rock is now getting a spot among mainstream audiences.

Or the song by Hulica, “An Imperfect Mangrove Part I,” which captures the essence of mourning. The lines describe how the pain is felt, along with the wish of being together again. However, if the conditions not possible, the song just letting us drown in unanswerable questions.

”Like the ending line of the song: I let myself be baffled, I don’t know why.”

Have you listen to math rock songs?

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