Bunkface

Bunkface is a dynamic Malaysian rock band that emerged onto the scene in 2006. The band comprises lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist Sam (Shamsul Anuar), bass guitarist Youk (Farouk Jaafar), lead guitarist Paan (Ahmad Farhan), and drummer Biak (Alif Sufian). The moniker “Bunkface” was proposed by Biak, inspired by the Sum 41 song “Crazy Amanda Bunkface.” Noteworthy tracks from Bunkface include “Silly Lily,” “Situasi,” “Revolusi,” “Prom Queen,” “Through My Window,” “Ekstravaganza,” “Rentak Laguku,” “Malam Ini Kita Punya,” “Darah Muda,” and “Masih Di Sini.” Enthusiastic supporters of the band go by the name “Bunkers.”

Biography

2007–2010: Lesson Of The Season and Mainstream Success

In December 2007, Bunkface unveiled their first EP, “Lesson Of The Season,” featuring 6 English tracks with a pop-punk/rock alternative sound. The hit single “Silly Lily” dominated Hitz.fm’s Malaysian Top Ten and Fly.fm’s Campur Chart. Following this success, Bunkface released their inaugural Malay single, “Situasi,” in 2007, which ascended to No. 1 on Fly FM and held steady at No. 3 on Era FM. The band received accolades at the inaugural Shout! Awards, including Rockstar, Break Out, and Ultimate Shout! Awards.

Their achievements attracted attention, leading to an invitation to perform at the One Movement For Music Perth (OMFM) festival in Australia in 2009, marking their debut overseas performance. The band toured extensively in 2010 as part of the Apex Tour, with record deals offered in the UK, which they declined to focus on strengthening their presence in the ASEAN region.

Bunkface engaged in the Everyone Connects campaign by TMNet, contributing the song “Through My Window,” resulting in a surge in popularity and a large-scale public sing-along event in Kuala Lumpur.

2010–2012: Phobia Phoney, Side Projects, and Tours

In March 2010, Bunkface released their debut full album, “Phobia Phoney,” consisting of 6 English and 4 Malay songs. Sam also initiated a side project, The Azenders, in mid-2010. The band gained international recognition at the Hong Kong Asia Music Festival in 2011, securing third place with their rendition of Queen’s “We Are the Champions.” Bunkface continued to expand their presence, releasing singles and making a video clip for “Dunia” in Hong Kong.

2011–2014: Panik and Its Airplay Controversy, BF Rock Station, and Bunk Not Dead

In 2011, Bunkface released the single “Panik?” and encountered controversy when Malaysian government radio station RTM temporarily banned airplay due to perceived political connotations. The band responded by releasing a clean version. In 2012, Bunkface launched their jamming studio and merchandise store, “BF ROCKSTATION,” and released the album “Bunk Not Dead,” showcasing a more mature and heavier musical style.

2014—Present: Malam Ini Kita Punya

The album “Malam Ini Kita Punya” was released on October 3, 2014, featuring seven Malay tracks. Produced by Sony Music Entertainment Malaysia, the album marked Bunkface’s ongoing evolution. The band continued their journey, participating in the 2015 Summer Sonic Festival in Tokyo.

2021

In 2021, Sam initiated a side project band called THEGIL, releasing their first single, “Rapatkan Saf.”

Musical Style and Influences

Bunkface identifies their music as Pop Punk, citing influences from Sum 41, Green Day, Blink 182, Fall Out Boy, The Offspring, and Nofx.

Music Videos

Bunkface has an extensive list of music videos for their tracks, showcasing their energetic performances and creative visuals.

Band Members

Current Members

• Sam – lead vocal, rhythm guitar
• Youk – backing vocal, bass
• Paan – lead guitar
• Biak – Drummer

Former Members

• Jabariah – bass (2005–2006)

Touring & Session Members

• Ejam Coda – Drums, percussion (2008–2012)
• Gjie 6ixth Sense – keyboards, synthesizers (2009–2011)
• Wawa – Keyboards, synthesizers (2010–2012)
• Wan 6ixth Sense – drums and percussion (Bunk Not Dead Tour 2013–present)
• Ainol – drums and percussion (2015–present)
• Ajam – Keyboards, synthesizers (2013–present)
• Anep – Pantry boy (2011–present)

Bunkids Members

• Maleeq
• Umar
• Safiya
• Idris
• Maryam

Discography

EP

• Lesson of the Season (2007)

Albums

• Phobia Phoney (2010)
• Bunk Not Dead (2012)
• Malam Ini Kita Punya (2014)
• Bunkface X (2016)
• POP (2019)
• Unnamed Punk Rock Album (announced to be released in 2020, delayed)

Awards and Nominations

Bunkface has accumulated an impressive list of awards and nominations, showcasing their impact and recognition in the music industry. Notable wins include the Rockstar Awards, Break Out Award, and The Ultimate Shout! Award at the 2009 Shout! Awards.

Note: The Awards and Nominations section includes details on their wins and nominations, illustrating their acclaim in the industry.