Inexperienced person regains control after 8 years – Hear65

Amateur Takes Control has made a triumphant return after an eight-year hiatus with their new album, ‘A Pale Decrepit Dot.’ This highly anticipated release on KittyWu Records is the band’s first new material since their acclaimed 2017 effort, ATCEP2.

Consisting of guitarists Adel Rashid, Ahmad Ariff, and Field Teo, bassist Isa Ong, and drummer Hydhir Ramli, this quintet has been building excitement for their comeback through a series of notable shows across the region. Additionally, the release of singles like ‘Arak’ and ‘Doomscroller’ in 2024 has garnered praise for their impactful sound.

Reflecting on the changes and evolution within the band since their last album in 2017, Amateur Takes Control notes that the addition of new member Hydhir in 2019 opened up avenues for exploring different musical directions. The band’s sound has naturally evolved towards darker and heavier tones, reflecting the pent-up frustrations and experiences of navigating life as working adults. As they grow older, they approach their craft with greater care and intention, cherishing the moments and putting thought and effort into creating meaningful music.

The themes explored in ‘A Pale Decrepit Dot’ delve into the band’s reflections on the overwhelming influx of information and media in today’s world. From death to mindless online content, the pressure of existing in a digitally saturated society weighs heavily. The juxtaposition of immense privilege and daily exposure to global misery highlights the band’s struggle with the absurdity and complexity of human existence. Through this album, Amateur Takes Control aims to confront these harsh realities and prompt listeners to reflect on their own place in the world.

The striking artwork accompanying the singles and album was crafted by artist Kit, known for his evocative humanoid sculptures. The sculptures’ ancient and powerful aesthetic resonates with the album’s themes of human struggle and existential queries. The grotesque yet relatable expressions captured in Kit’s work complement the album’s exploration of dark and introspective themes, creating a visual narrative that enhances the listening experience.

Each track on ‘A Pale Decrepit Dot’ is a carefully crafted piece of musical storytelling. ‘Arak’ stands out as a short, intense track that gets straight to the point, providing a punchy contrast to the band’s tendency for longer compositions. ‘Eye For Eye’ maintains a raw and intense energy, showcasing emotional depth through stripped-down instrumentation. ‘Non-zero’ bursts with gritty explosiveness, demanding to be heard at high volumes to fully appreciate its impact. Meanwhile, ‘Göbekli Tepe’ draws inspiration from the ancient site in Turkey, weaving a narrative of mystery and intrigue through its musical journey.

Amateur Takes Control’s return with ‘A Pale Decrepit Dot’ marks a significant moment in the band’s evolution, showcasing their growth and maturity as musicians. This album serves as a powerful reflection of the band’s experiences and observations, inviting listeners to contemplate the complexities of the modern world and their place within it. With its intricate storytelling and emotive soundscapes, ‘A Pale Decrepit Dot’ cements Amateur Takes Control’s position as a leading force in the instrumental rock scene.