A cheeky, dance-ready love letter to youth, language, and the joyful accidents of cross-cultural connection, Anti Lag’s latest single, “Apa Kabar,” is more than just a song. Combining the infectious rhythms of pop and rap with just the right pinch of indie playfulness, “Apa Kabar” emerges as a bold wave that connects Australia and Indonesia in a manner that feels seamless yet deeply considered.
Inspired by a request from another artist, Shakaboyd, who was organizing the Valentunes compilation, Anti Lag was thrown back to his early scholastic years when Indonesian courses had him fluent strictly in party lingo and pleasantries like “Apa Kabar?” But off that base of the humorous, Anti Lag carved out a full-on dance floor banger fueled by fast-flowing raps, a buoyant beat, and an undercurrent of pure joy.
“Apa Kabar” started as a beat for a compilation, but Anti Lag decided to add vocals after some reluctance, and it turned into a whole track. Fortunately, Shakaboyd gave the go-ahead, and the result is a track as playful as it is original. Adding another layer of magic to the song is the music video, which was filmed among gum trees beside Melbourne’s Yarra River, complete with tabletop dance moves that underscore the spirited nature of the track. It’s surprising and compelling.
“Apa Kabar” has that rare sensibility of cultural curiosity and connection. At a time when genre lines are being erased and borders feel both closer and more distant than ever, Anti Lag’s song serves as a reminder of the way music can serve as a universal hello. So whether you’re vibing out in Jakarta or dancing under Aussie skies, this one’s for you.
