Ten years after their debut, Weird Genius is returning to their roots with the release of their latest single, “Your Side.” Born from a deep-dive exploration into the heart of Sumba, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), the track is a masterclass in blending futuristic electronic production with the soul of Indonesian heritage.
The project is the result of a two-week creative residency in Sumba, where the group immersed themselves in the island’s unique musical landscape. Determined to revive sounds that are fading from the modern consciousness, Weird Genius integrated rare traditional instruments such as the Jungga and Dungga Roro. This effort to preserve “endangered” sounds follows in the footsteps of their 2016 hit “DPS,” which similarly drew inspiration from Balinese culture.
“Through this song, Weird Genius returns to its core,” the group shared. “In 2016, we went to Bali and created ‘DPS’; 10 years later, we went to Sumba and created ‘Your Side.’ We poured all of Sumba’s grandeur and magical atmosphere into this track.”
Adding a layer of haunting authenticity, the song features an intro by traditional Sumbanese musician Umbu Haling, setting a mystical tone that carries throughout the piece. To bring the melody to life, the group collaborated with powerhouse vocalist Novia Bachmid, whose performance anchors the track’s cinematic energy.
“Your Side” is more than just a dance track; it is a sonic invitation to explore the archipelago. Weird Genius hopes the song becomes the ultimate soundtrack for travelers and explorers discovering the diverse beauty of Indonesia. Whether you’re on a road trip through the highlands or relaxing by the coast, “Your Side” promises to bring a touch of Sumba’s magic to your playlist.
