Mantradhara has released its second single, Yamien, following the positive response to Abyss last year.
The song marks an important milestone for the group. It is the first Mantradhara release to feature Indonesian as its primary language.
Although Yamien takes its title from the popular sweet and spicy noodle dish, the song was not originally written about food.
The members initially explored a different theme. However, they later decided to center the song around one of their favorite meals.
A Story Open to Different Interpretations
According to member Ijes, the original concept imagined four first-year high school girls who all loved yamien noodles.
The story follows the girls as they head to the school cafeteria to buy their favorite meal.
Instead, they encounter a group of troublesome senior students, leading to a playful competition over the noodles.
As the songwriting developed, the members realized the lyrics could carry a broader meaning.
Gianna Putri explained that listeners could also interpret the song as a story about romance or even infidelity.
In that interpretation, the yamien represents a charming man who attracts the attention of many women.
Yamien was written by Faisal Triant alongside Ijes and Avedis Mutter.
Read more: Mantradhara Debuts With Bold Rock Single “Abyss”
A New Direction for Mantradhara
The new single also signals a fresh creative direction for the group.
Future releases, including the upcoming EP, will feature more lyrics in Indonesian. Yamien will also appear on that project.
Hasyakyla said the group wanted to stand out by combining its unconventional musical style with Indonesian-language lyrics.
Mantradhara consists of former JKT48 members Hasyakyla (Caca), Zashika Ijes, Gianna Putri, and Tika Nistia.
The group also works closely with producers Avedis Mutter of Aftercoma and Strangers, along with Faisaltriant, formerly of Danger Ranger and For Revenge.
Yamien is now available on Spotify, Apple Music, and other major streaming platforms.
The official music video was released on the same day.
Following the single’s release, Mantradhara also confirmed that it is ready to begin performing live.
The group revealed it already has several unreleased songs prepared for future stage performances.