Sustaining the spirit of the ‘Powerful Indonesia: Bhinneka Tunggal Ika’ campaign, which highlights Indonesian craftsmanship through music, The Apurva Kempinski Bali proudly presents this year’s ‘Anthology of Indonesian Music’ event series finale on an even grander stage. Featuring highly acclaimed musician and author of ‘Anthology of Indonesian Music’ book Aksan Sjuman, esteemed jazz music composer and songwriter Indra Lesmana, alongside renowned artist and designer Raul Renanda, the sixth edition of ‘Anthology of Indonesian Music’ showcases a curated ‘Best of the Best’ compilation from its first edition spotlighting five musical genres: jazz, pop, rock, dangdut, and 80’s melancholy.
Take a set on Friday, 8 November 2024 at the resort’s majestic Pendopo Lobby; the ‘Best of the Best Anthology of Indonesian Music’ invites guests and music enthusiasts onto a stage that showcases more than a performance; it is a celebration that allows audiences to connect across multi-genres of Indonesian music, from the intricate beats of rock, ‘Dangdut’ folk music, Indonesian classic 80’s to popular music, all infused with the smooth of Jazz.
Promises an auditory experience that transcends boundaries, ‘Best of the Best Anthology of Indonesia Music’ is enriched with interactive discussion and exclusive performances by renowned and talented Indonesian jazz musicians, including Indra Lesmana and Aksan Sjuman. Among the distinguished performers are Tompi, a critically acclaimed and award-winning jazz singer whose vocal style was influenced by traditional Acehnese singing and whose personal and cultural narrative resonates in his works. Oppie Andaresta, an esteemed pop and rock singer and songwriter from the 90’s, is known for her songs that nuanced social issues. Nesia Ardi, who comes from a musical family background, is one of the respected Jazz singers who brings a unique blend of traditional Indonesian sounds and contemporary Jazz. Additionally, the interactive discussion enhances the experience, transforming musical performance into an educational journey that deepens the audience’s connection to the music and its cultural roots.
The origins of this extraordinary collaboration date back to March 2023, when Aksan Sjuman introduced his groundbreaking ‘Antologi Musik Indonesia’ book at L’Atelier by Cyril Kongo – The Apurva Kempinski Bali’s iconic lounge. In partnership with The Apurva Kempinski Bali, Raul Renanda, and Indra Lesmana this initiative has expanded through immersive events celebrating the history of Indonesian music intertwined with jazz. Following the success of ‘Anthology of Indonesian Music Vol. I’, ‘Pop: Anthology of Indonesian Music Vol. II’, ‘Rock Anthology’, ‘The Depth, Dream and Decades of Dangdut’, and the ’80’s Melancholy’, the sixth edition unites the finest music selections from these previous series, resulting in an enthralling music journey. Timeless classic tracks such as Chrisye’s ‘Kisah Kasih di Sekolah’, ‘Begadang’ from the King of Dangdut Rhoma Irama, and Tompi’s all-time favourite ‘Menhujam Jantungku’ resonate throughout the lobby and bring back the memory. The ‘Best of the Best’ series concludes with ‘Ini Rindu’ by Farid Hardja and Lucky Resha, where the crowd’s energy reaches a peak.
“In the 1980s, the songs of various songwriters gained immense popularity and resonated with people from all social classes and backgrounds. This era has significantly influenced the evolution of Indonesian music up to the present day and serves as the main context of discussion in the ‘Anthology of Indonesian Music.’ As representatives of the previous generation, we acknowledge that the younger generation has its distinct voice on this subject, and it is exciting to witness the dialogue between generations.” – Lesmana, Sjuman, and Renanda.
“The ‘Anthology of Indonesian Music’ has been an extraordinary journey and we are proud to have Raul, Indra, and Aksan as part of our family in celebrating the rich legacy of Indonesian music. We are thrilled to conclude the 2024 Anthology of Indonesian Music event series finale with ‘Best of the Best’ compilation, and we look forward to continuing this partnership with even more exciting musical programmes in 2025.” – said Vincent Guironnet, the General Manager of The Apurva Kempinski Bali.