A forthcoming book titled Algorifobik: Alternatif Resah Algoritma offers an in-depth look at Malaysia’s independent music scene between 2017 and 2024, examining how the internet has reshaped sound, spaces and subcultures.

The book features 20 essays covering topics such as the rise of hyperpop in Malaysia, the survival of independent venues and the “galau” music era shaped by online music consumption.

Contributors include Farhira Farudin of Noisy Headspace; Zim Ahmadi and Zhafirin Zulkifli of Gedegang!; AlKamil Kamarludin of Junklist; and Ku Syafiq, known for his work with SeniMalaya and the now-defunct Rondivu on Utusan.

“All the essays share a common thread — a journey in search of ‘The Man’ (as in the film School of Rock) or ‘The Enemy’ (as in the film Almost Famous) that has existed in the legacy of rock music from the beginning.”

“Multiple industrial revolutions, the false artistic democracy brought by artificial intelligence technology and the influence of social media are enough to draw a conclusion — algorithms come with opportunities but must be monitored as they may be ‘The Man’ and ‘The Enemy’ of this generation,” read the synopsis.

Algorifobik: Alternatif Resah Algoritma will officially launch on 25 May 2025 at the Kuala Lumpur International Book Fair, held at the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur.