Sight and sound come together for Indonesian singer-songwriter Mezzaluna’s debut single In Situ and its accompanying music video.
The 20-year-old artist was the first Indonesian artist signed to label OFFMUTE — Sony Music’s latest initiative focused on championing local and emerging artists in Southeast Asia to collaborate and reach new audiences across the region.
“The opportunity I have with OFFMUTE has opened a lot of doors for me in the music industry. For the first time ever, I feel hopeful and want everyone in Indonesia to know that dreams do come true no matter where you come from. To be born in a country rich in art and culture, I aspire to create my music locally and be globally relatable. I want people to see Indonesia as the country it truly is.”
‘In Situ’, written when Mezzaluna was only 15 and at the start of her musical journey. Her rich, deep vocals and intensely personal storytelling writing style belie her youth, carrying the weight and wisdom of heartache.
“It was one of the quickest writing processes I’ve done as I was being honest with my feelings. It was easier. Since it was based on my own personal experience, I was just speaking from my heart.”
The jazzy, neo-soul, alt-pop number came to fruition in collaboration with Indonesian producer Gio Wibowo.
“Working with Gio on the song was surreal to me as I didn’t think that I would make it this far. It started out as a fun little project that I thought would only stop there but it turned out great and I really am proud of it.”
Pursuing and exploring a track’s creative vision is a process OFFMUTE wants to preserve for artists under their label. Mezzaluna was able to bring her vision for ‘In Situ’ full circle with the accompanying music video.
The video, directed by Deby Sucha and produced by Howdy Productions Indonesia, expresses the anxious wistfulness and melancholy Mezzaluna sings about in her song. The juxtaposed imagery of light and dark mirrors the feelings of exposed vulnerability and obscured hopelessness while exuding the polarizing tension of stillness in waiting and restlessness of impatience.
“‘In Situ’ is a song about reaching out to someone that isn’t responding, so what’s left is a feeling of hopelessness to the point where you just accept anything without expecting or fighting for it anymore,” Mezzaluna explains, “the music video truly captures the essence of the song. I couldn’t be prouder.”
‘In Situ’ is available now on digital streaming platforms.
