POPULAR singer-songwriter Loque's original song 'Cinta Yang Paling Sempurna', with lyrics by Farid, has been given a fresh interpretation by Margasatwa's Kimal.
The song, which was initially crafted in a major key, has now been reimagined in a minor key, giving it a distinct Malaysian feel reminiscent of the style of Datuk M. Nasir and S. Atan.
Loque said: "The journey of 'Cinta Yang Paling Sempurna' began in 2016 when Farid collaborated with me to create a song with this title.
"It was inspired by the Indonesian 1970s pop band era, bands like The Mercy's and D'Lloyd, a small part of my childhood music upbringing."
Hence, Loque composed the song in a major key, portraying the era's influence. He enlisted singer-songwriter Tomok to take the lead in 'Cinta Yang Paling Sempurna' 2017.
"This collaboration involved Penerbitan Pancasona and the Pahang State Museum. We released it during Ramadan 2017, accompanied by a music video shot in the Tanjung Tuan lighthouse near Port Dickson," said Loque.
He added that the rendition in major key of 'Cinta Yang Paling Sempurna' marked a significant moment, especially as it is considered the final framework from the 'Jangan Puja Sampai Kecewa' (Monoloque's second album) era.
"The music video for the original 2017 version holds a special place in the hearts of fans. Furthermore, this collaboration with the Pahang State Museum adds a layer of cultural significance to the project, tying it to the rich heritage of the region."
Loque said that Farid, recognising that the song resonated during the Covid-19 pandemic from 2020 to 2022, suggested that he give it a new touch.
"So in 2021, I created a demo of the song, this time in a minor key, infusing it with a darker feel.
"This could possibly be the most 'minorish' chord progression I will ever write in my lifetime," he said.
The latest rendition of 'Cinta Yang Paling Sempurna is known as Cinta Yang Paling Sempurna' (Versi Gelap), and Kimal's version gives a fresh sound to the song.
Kimal said: "As it is now written in minor keys, it paints a perfect picture of a soul yearning for divine love.
"Although the song has not yet been finalised for an album release, it has been included in our 'Sesi Bilik Bedah' offering a sneak peek into its evolution."
Monoloque's drummer Bakri who featured in the 2017 version said: "This new version is darker.
"This perception arose when Loque and Farid were seeking a suitable singer to perform the song in a minor key .
"However, the singer declined gracefully, citing its somewhat dark nature and Loque loved that description as it highlighted the song"s intriguing qualities."