Ahns finds music in Malaysia’s everyday landscapes

Kuala Lumpur-based singer-songwriter Ahns draws inspiration from his Malaysian surroundings for his debut album "Southeast Express". The 10-track album, set to release on October 16, spans nearly a decade of writing and recording. Born and raised in Gombak and Segambut, Ahns's life experiences find a way into his music, from the roads he grew up on to the floodwaters that once entered his childhood home.

The album's recurring theme is how deeply lives can be shaped by forces beyond one's control, with a particular emphasis on the contrast between the emotional stagnation in his songs and the childlike quality of his lyrics. His musical influences include Perfume Genius, St Vincent, and Radiohead, and he has recently developed a sound that leans towards alternative singer-songwriter style.

Ahns's music often incorporates atmospheric, indie-pop sonics, and he creates cohesion across the album by pairing his music with visuals. This approach has garnered praise, with one listener commenting that the album makes Malaysia look "pretty". The album's release is accompanied by a regional tour called the "Satellite" exchange, where Ahns will perform across five states and collaborate with local artists.