'Di Hotel Malibu' by Thee Marloes

The sophomore album release from Thee Marloes finds its way to audiences two years after their sensational debut offering through Big Crown Records.

'Di Hotel Malibu' finds the Indonesian trio offering up a thrilling extension to the sublime soundscapes presented in their 2024 debut, 'Perak'.  Displaying an affection for 60s and 70s soul through a progressive and contemporary lens, Thee Marloes have cultivated a sound that lovingly nods to their Indonesian heritage while also boasting something of a now signature dusty analog texture that is so emphatically rich in quality. 

Hailing from Surabaya, Indonesia, Thee Marloes actually began life as a passion project for guitarist Sinatrya Dharaka and drummer Tommy Satwick who would record their early demos in Dharaka's bedroom during the global pandemic.  The duo's need for a vocalist led them to Natassya Sianturi, who they had previously crossed paths with on the circuit.  Through their palpable chemistry and soon discovering their shared love for soul revival bands, classic soul-funk for the 70s as well as quintessential soul music as pioneered by Motown, Stax and Atlantic Records, Sianturi was swiftly inducted as a part of the trio as vocalist and keyboardist.

An organic formation born of a shared passion for music that would ultimately garner the attention of Big Crown.  And it seems only fitting to take a moment and discuss the phenomenal slew of releases that Big Crown Records themselves are having - with projects over the last year alone from El Michels Affair, Les Imprimés and Marco Benevento, the New York-based label continues to serve as a beacon for contemporary soul music, even going as far as plundering the four corners of the planet in a bid to unearth the treasures they seem to continually showcase amongst their ever-expanding catalogue.  

And Thee Marloes are absolutely indicative of that.  

Through both intimate and articulate song-writing, exquisite musicianship and sublime vocals, Thee Marloes frankly make it all look too easy.  With songs that delve into a range of joyous and reflective subject matter from love, death, self-doubt, the music finds its life through affectionate and warm production that offers up inspired soundscapes for Sianturi's captivating vocal. 

Confirming the promise of the group's debut, The Marloes may openly declare their adoration for various styles of soul music but their ability to imbue those inspirations with a uniquely personal identity is what continues to endear them to listeners the world over.  Shaped by cultural heritage and a commitment to authenticity, 'Di Hotel Malibu' reaffirms the trio as a compulsory voice for contemporary soul.