Gado-Gado [Mixed Up] (SSA)
This new composition takes you on a culinary and musical journey through Southeast Asia, blending tradition with creativity. The lyrics are inspired by the names of iconic dishes from seven countries, each ingeniously rhyming with the solfège syllables (Do Re Mi Fa So La Ti). From Indonesia’s vibrant Gado-Gado to the Philippines’ rich Kare-Kare, Singapore’s flavourful Lor Mee, Vietnam’s aromatic Pho, Thailand’s spicy Khao Soi, Malaysia’s delicate Roti Jala, and Myanmar’s savoury Mont Ti.
Adding a playful twist, “Gado-Gado” not only represents a beloved Indonesian dish but also means “mixed up” in Indonesian slang. This mirrors the piece’s blend of these diverse flavours with the universal language of music. The playful integration also opens a door to discussions about wordplay and linguistic creativity in music.