The Normie Lens

Music
Sports
Movies

Author: The Normie Lens

  • Indonesia Has To Say Goodbye To World Cup 2026, Who’s To Blame?

    Indonesia’s dream of competing in the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico has officially ended. The Garuda was defeated by Iraq with a 1-0 result through Zidane Iqbal’s only goal in the 76th minute. Let’s reflect on Garuda’s recent hard-fought journey below.

    Indonesia National Team (pssi.org)

    Crushed in Round 4, Is This Expected?

    The Indonesian national team began their campaign in a group with Saudi Arabia and Iraq. Indonesia’s main target was to at least secure second spot if they couldn’t win the group. Many believed that Indonesia could at least win or steal points from Saudi Arabia, who they had beaten 2-0 in Jakarta a while before.

    If the plan successful, Indonesia’s chances of qualifying directly for the World Cup or advancing to Round 5 are wide open.

    ”As a serious commitment, PSSI added another naturalized player, Mauro Zijlstra and Miliano Jonathans. The arrival of both of them is expected to have an instant impact, bringing Garuda closer to the dream.”

    Unfortunately, Indonesia suffered a harsh 2-3 defeat in their first match against Saudi Arabia. What’s make people disappointed was the Garuda’s performance are below their best. Players such as Marc Klok, Beckham Putra, and Yakob Sayuri were openly criticized.

    Furthermore, the coach’s decision regarding player composition raised big questions. As Yakob Sayuri, who originally played right wing, was placed at right back. This resulted in several Saudi Arabia goals coming from Yakob’s side.

    In a do-or-die match against Iraq, Indonesia actually took control of the game and created several chances. Nevertheless, Indonesia suffered a 1-0 defeat due to Zidane Iqbal’s lone goal in the 76th minute. Kudos to all the players and staff for their efforts in making it this far.

    Patrick Kluivert’s Future Remains Uncertain

    After failing to take the national team further, Patrick Kluivert’s position as coach is once again being questioned. This is especially brought after his predecessor, Shin Tae-Yong, was surprisingly fired after maintain the team staying on track. Now, the public considers it unfair if Patrick is not fired after having unfavorable results.

    However, Patrick said that the Indonesian team played better in the match, but unfortunately the outcome did not seem to reflect the same thing. On the other hand, some point the finger more at Erick Thohir, PSSI Chairman, and the Federation for making major changes midway through the process.

    ”The internet was buzzing with the hashtag #KluivertOut as the fans could only compare it to the shining days of Shin Tae-Yong’s era.”

  • Capturing Raw Teenage Life: Bekasi Punk Trio Sukses Lancar Rejeki

    There is a famous quote says that history repeats itself. The same goes for music. Every decade, there are new wave emerging into the scene, and for this time, it’s Bekasi Punk Trio Sukses Lancar Rejeki good luck.

    Sukses Lancar Rejeki (instagram.com/sukseslancarrejeki_amin)

    Quirky yet honest songs

    The Bekasi-based teenage punk trio: Mahes, Jalil, and Bumbum first gained attention when clips of their performances were posted on the internet. Their most famous song titled “Maling,” which stands to thief, instantly received positive responses. Thanks to its explosive chorus and the band’s interactive action of inviting the audience to shout “Maling” together.

    The vocalist, Mahes, once said that the inspiration for their silly tracks comes from his own experiences and his friends. Not only ‘Maling’, but other songs like ‘Kebelet’,‘Ke Pasar Bareng Emak’, and ‘Toilet Sekolah’ also sound very unique. Track ‘Kebelet’ as an example, which tells the story of Mahes’ experience at school when he wanted permission to go to the bathroom but was only given 3 seconds by his teacher. As a result, Mahes hurriedly left the class and while on his way to the toilet, this song suddenly came to his mind.

    ”While the majority of lyrics and song titles nowadays are written meaningfully, Sukses Lancar Rejeki chooses a simple way to represent their teenage moments.”

    Can you guess where they first met?

    Unlike most bands formed among school or college friends, SLR took a unique path. In an interview on VINDES YouTube, the trio—Mahes, Jalil, and Bumbum—revealed they met at an Islamic boarding school. Their parents had known each other for years, a bond later shared by their kids.

    Even though they grew up in different schools, the three members remained close due to their long-lasting chemistry. The trio also have a studio called ‘Studimo’ which means Studio Musholla, where they practice as a band and also hold religious gatherings there.

    So, despite their active lives of music and academics, the members never overlook God’s presence in all of their efforts. This particular side appears to be present in all aspects of Sukses Lancar Rejeki, which may indicate this is the driving force for their recent success.

    Still a long long way to go

    The fact that all of the members of this band are under the age of 20 is what makes it so interesting. Mahes, the vocalist, is fifteen years old and in his first year of high school. Bumbum, the drummer, is 16 years old and attends second-year of high school. The bassist, Jalil, is the oldest member and still only at 17 years old.

    Furthermore, huge potential and the positive’s reaction to this Bekasi punk trio has made their journey remains prolonged. The concept of Sukses Lancar Rejeki, which translates as “Smooth Success Fortune,” has turned into a reality.

    ”The sincerity in the lyrical structure, song titles, and music video concepts has ultimately become a signature of Sukses Lancar Rejeki. Currently, many consider SLR, their acronym, to be the next major thing in the music scene.”

    I guess it’s safe to say that #PunkIsGreatAgain.