When you first hear Thee Marloes, their particular soul sound may seem familiar enough. There are the weighty drums, a crooning guitar, and a beautiful voice singing about unrequited love or the complications of relationships. But then there is something undeniably different about Thee Marloes and their music, something new and distinct. And while you may be acquainted with soul music, you’ve probably never heard it from Surabaya, Indonesia—the place Thee Marloes call home. This Indonesian trio, consisting of Natassya Sianturi on vocals and keys, Sinatrya (“Raka”) Dharaka on guitar and production, and Tommy Satwick on drums, has garnered significant critical acclaim, particularly for their debut album, “Perak”. Critics have consistently praised the album’s unique charm and high quality, describing it as “something quite special” and even “one of my albums of the year”. A significant aspect of this acclaim is directed towards Natassya Sianturi’s “sweet, naïve,” and “captivating” vocals, often delivered with “heartfelt” emotion.
“Perak” has been lauded for its “retro soft soul sound” with a “Daptone/Colemine vibe,” appealing to fans of classic soul with a modern twist. The album also stands out for its seamless blend of English and Indonesian lyrics, with reviewers noting that the “sentiment in their music is palpable” regardless of the language. Tracks like “Midnight Hotline” have been described as “punchy dancefloor number[s]” with an “infectious chorus,” while “Beri Cinta Waktu” is highlighted as a “soulful ballad”. The critical success of “Perak” is further underscored by its selection as one of BBC Radio 6 Music’s Albums of the Year 2024 by Huey Morgan. This recognition highlights Thee Marloes’ growing influence and the widespread appreciation for their distinctive soul sound from Surabaya.
