#SHOWBIZ: Kael soars through 'Angkasa'
The modern pop ballad is the fourth single from Alternate Records and is a poignant collaboration between Kael, composer Omar K and music producer Iqie Hugh.
'Angkasa' is an ode to the power of love transcending physical separation.
It draws inspiration from the idea of two souls connected across different realities — like day and night sharing the same sky — and explores themes of loyalty, enduring hope and finding beauty in life's imperfections.
Omar K says the song's core message is to believe in the sincerity of love, no matter the circumstances.
"If the love is genuine and strong, two people will always be united emotionally and spiritually, in the same 'Angkasa'," he says.
The song's beauty lies in its minimalist yet emotive arrangement, which allows Kael's powerful and nuanced vocals to take centre stage.
The melody is intentionally unconventional—it's both gentle and strong, melancholic and hopeful—creating a dramatic and cinematic atmosphere.
With a mix of modern pop ballad sensibilities and subtle electronic elements, 'Angkasa' creates an ethereal soundscape that evokes a sense of emotional freedom.
The lyrics, such as "Walau Bulan Dan Matahari Berbeza, Kau Pagi Dan Ku Malam, Tetap Di Angkasa Yang Sama" ("Even though the Moon and Sun are different, you are morning and I am night, we are still in the same Space"), are a modern-day love poem, speaking directly to the hearts of listeners.
Kael, who was heavily involved in the writing, composition and visual development of the single, described the song as deeply personal.
"It's a reflection of my most authentic self," says the 36-year-old artiste, whose real name is Michael Lean Chien Er.
"The biggest challenge was to turn the words from my heart into a poetic and meaningful melody."
He hopes the song will become a modern classic, suitable for special moments like weddings and anniversaries, or simply as a way to express appreciation for a loved one.
The entire production of 'Angkasa' was a three-month-long process, from songwriting to recording.
Kael's main vocal session, however, was completed in a single day, which Omar K attributes to the singer's professionalism and enthusiasm in the studio.
Ultimately, Kael has high hopes for 'Angkasa', wishing for it to become a beloved track not just in Malaysia but across the region, putting Malaysian music on the global map.
The single is now available to stream on all major digital platforms, including YouTube Music and Spotify.
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