Groove is the kind of music that become more and more accepted as a genre. In groove the sense of rhytmic feel is mostly created by the rhythm section of a band, producing something that usually makes us want to move, dance and any other response by the body in sync with the music, including foot-tapping and so on.. While the term ‘groove’ was already mentioned in music at least since the 50′s, this concept began to be taken and developed seriously in the late 80′s/early 90′s. Groove has been widely used in variety of genres. Most notably in R&B, disco, hip hop and jazz, but it can also be found in some other sides like reggae, metal/rock or even ethnic. However, for the common listeners groove is mostly related to the kind of music which combines some elements such as jazz, funk, pop, soul and R&B which has the kind of infectious beat that our body can’t refuse to respond.

Due to its pop pattern, groove often acts as the ambassador of jazz since it’s able to introduce jazz in friendly approach towards the common listeners. So, while we have to maintain the traditional jazz, groove is also needed if we want to see jazz being developed in this country. Having that in mind, Klab Jazz provides a regular event where groove is on top, the event’s called Groove Collective. This event has been running for several months with good enough number of audience. It was good, but unfortunately the venue Plate For Me decided not to continue the cooperation with Klab Jazz any longer. Today we heard the good news from Klab Jazz that the Groove Collective will still be served this month by placing it in a new venue, Bober Tropica, Bandung.

This ninth edition Klab Jazz has prepared not just 5 but 6 bands with various festive sounds, from pop jazz, blues, soul and everything in between. They are 4Something, Childhood & The Vital Territory, E.I.P, Last Minute Action, Peaberry and Unity of Soul are the bands who set to fill out all the session in this edition.

With the toal number of 30 players from the young generation, Groove Collective #09 is ready to cheer your first day of the weekend. So if you’re looking for a place in Bandung that can make your relaxing hours full with groove, you can always come to this one. It’s provided free as usual. It doesn’t matter if you like jazz or not, what’s important is for you to groove along the rhythm. Do come and merry this community event with your presence.

Groove Collective #09

Date: Friday, June 21, 2013
Time: 7:00 pm – 11:00 pm
Location: Bober Tropica
Jl. Sumatra no 5, Bandung

FREE EVENT

Featuring (in alphabetical order):

:: 4SOMETHING [pop jazz/groove]
- Syafiera vocals
- Tonny K. Herlyawan guitar
- Pradnya “Wibie” Farand bass
- Fajar drums
- Ilham Pamuji alto saxophone

:: CHILDHOOD & THE VITAL TERRITORY [blues]
- Rayhan Murtaza gitar, vokal
- Gilang Nurzatti drum
- Alfa Okke bass

:: E.I.P. [blues funk]
- Ipung Permadi guitar & vocal
- Muhamad Ilham bass
- Evan Natanael drum

:: LAST MINUTE ACTION [groove/soul]
- Muchsin Sajri vocals
- Ashita Widya vocals
- Aldo Triasmoro guitar
- Alvin Andrian bass
- M. Annas T. drums
- Leonard Mario keyboard

:: PEABERRY [pop jazz/groove]
- Bima Kusuma vokal
- Haikal Kharisma gitar akustik
- Sandy Lesmana bass
- Edi Suranta gitar listrik
- Byll Chandra drums
- Budy Prama saxophone
- Daniel Pratama keyboard

:: UNITY OF SOUL
- Agung Kurniawan vocal
- Andres Rinaldy Putra bass
- Kevin Rinaldy Putra drums
- Rey Tobing guitar
- Fiorella Andani Sihombing keyboard

It’s always fascinating to talk about the ‘behaviour’ of jazz ever since it went out from its origin to reach the faraway lands around the world. Since the beginning jazz has been representing the synthesis of many cultural or musical influences, and jazz still continues to do so. Jazz has been showing its high adaptability to new environments wherever it lands. Jazz never fails to find the way of intergrating itself into specific cultural circumstances when it arrived to new areas. As a result, many, many new hybrids are born. Jazz overseas is not just copying the way jazz being played in its origin USA, but able to provides something new as an expansion of the artistical aspect of this music. That’s why you can clearly differ the way jazz sound in Africa and Europe, it becomes different in Asia and so on. If we go deeper into one country for example Indonesia, jazz has assimilated with many, many cultures that we can also clearly differ. We have heard the combination of Jazz with Aceh, Batak (North Sumatra), Melayu (Malay), Sunda (West Java), the Central and East Java, Bali, Borneo all the way to Flores and so on. Music is something dynamic and progressive. There are so many territories to discover in the magical world of music, and jazz has been a major force for that.

It’s important to be able to play jazz ‘fluently’, but it’s also equally important to find out the possibility of creating something new. Speaking of the jazz-ethnic combination, so far we have seen tremendous growth among the youngsters, particularly in Bandung region. If before it was quite difficult to find bands/musicians who fancy both East-West musical aspects, today there are many of them, surprisingly dominated by the young players. So it’s not impossible to enjoy jazz while still caring for our own traditional musics. Jazz can even become the universal ‘language’ to introduce these traditional segments to the whole world.

Klab Jazz Bandung seems to know the importance of it, while at the same time realize that Bandung has more than enough resources. Therefore since the beginning of 2013, this jazz community launched a spin-off which is highlighting jazz associated with ethnic musics, particularly the Sundanese. By using JAZZ NAGARI as the title, Klab Jazz intends to show that jazz and ethnic can actually live side by side in harmony as well as providing enough space for the musicians of this corner to exhibit their crafts.

This month Jazz Nagari will reach its 6th edition with 4 groups in the lineup. As usual, there will be pure jazz bands, the ethnic and colorful varieties. Jazz will be represented by Chakraborty, a group which fancies the modern jazz era and also Thirty Project which is back again after the Jazz Nagari 2 in February. In this edition you can also enjoy the root of all modern music, blues with its hybrid, jazz. This section will be brought by Foxy Blues. Last but not least, Tumaritis represents the ethnic music. This ensemble combines modern and traditional instruments (including bamboo flute and Sundanese lute)  in cooking up their repertoires. They are capable to taylor today’s songs into traditional sounds, on the other hand they can also bring the Sundanese ethnic music to appear more modern. The event will be served at Siete Cafe Resto Bandung without taking any charge.

If you are looking for different free event or if you like jazz but want to see more variety of it while enjoying various tasty foods and beverages, this event is for you. Other than that, you can also show your support to the jazz community by simply attending it.

Jazz Nagari #06

Date: Thursday, June 20, 2013
Time: 06:30 pm – 10:30 pm
Location: Siete Cafe Resto, Jl. Sumur Bandung no 20, Bandung

FREE EVENT

Featuring (in alphabetical order):

:: CHAKRABORTY [cool jazz]
- Gabriel Frans piano
- Adya Amru Hidayat guitar
- Ilham bass
- Joo Yang drums

:: FOXY BLUES [jazz blues]
- Uge Gunara guitar
- Ilham Septia Indra Nugraha bass
- Lisa Natalia drum
- Derry Novalia piano
- Ilham Pamuji saxophone

:: THIRTY PROJECT [fusion]
- Saeful Rahman guitar
- Maulana Hadiansyah drums
- Adhitya Isnandia bass
- Junaedi Martin Ginting piano

:: TUMARITIS [ethnic pop]
- Dinar Rizkianty vocals
- Edwar bamboo flute
- Panji kacapi (Sundanese lute)
- Rendra guitar
- Robby bass
- Ipin percussion

Twelve years ago compser/key-wiz Riza Arshad established a beautiful connection with guitarist Oele Pattiselano in an album titled “Talks”. This album gave an essential dialogue between two musicians which spoke their heart out into stream of notes by using their instruments. No one and nothing else, just the two of them, but in each song we could feel the artistic side brought by two masters. They might be silence while playing, but the communication was intense, musically speaking. The album is long gone from the market, but it’s still well remembered until now.

12 years have passed, now Riza Arshad is ready to make the second collaboration, this time with much younger guitarist but just as good. He is Robert Mulyarahardja (Robert MR) as the highlight of Institut Français d’Indonésie (IFI) Bandung’s Saung Jazz, June edition. This project is called Riza Arshad/Robert MR ‘Harmonik Duo’. So, other than watching the new piano-guitar connection from Riza and Robert, this edition will be the second concert that exhibit the harmonious marriage between these two instruments. The first one was last year in March with Dhani Syah and Johanes Radianto.

Let’s take a closer look of both artist. Riza Arshad is one of the most respected names in Indonesian jazz scene. He has been contributing a lot in jazz movement in Indonesia for many years. Riza started his career at the age of 15 in a progressive rock band, Rara Ragadi and never stopped playing ever since. He currently has two bands with different concept: the ethno-jazz progressive ensemble simakDialog and #3scapes (formerly known as Trioscapes). The simakDialog has been with him for 20 years. This band is very well known for its uniqueness by replacing drums with set of kendangs and metal toys plus the braveness to explore the jazz territory rarely visited. Since 2007 their albums are distributed internationally by MoonJune Records. Just a month ago Riza and the simakDialog launched the 6th album entitled The 6th Story. Then the #3scapes (established in 2001) digs the subtle funk with other ingredients together with his two compatriotes, Aksan Sjuman and Yance Manusama. Also known as a brilliant composer and producer, you will always amaze by the sound he creates whenever his fingers dance above the keys. “Speaking of the outside notes, Riza Arshad is the king indeed.” said a musician to us a while ago.

Then, Robert Mulyarahardja. This Berklee College of Music alumni has been coloring the jazz scene after he returned home several years ago. He’s known as one of the founders of Shadow Puppets Quartet which has released two albums and has landed on many soils in Indonesia. This talented man has collaborated with many names including joe Lovano, Charlie Haden Liberation Music Orchestra, Bubi Chen and uncountable Indonesian artists. Robert just launched his first solo album two months ago titled “Gratitude”. His calm and cool style are reflected in his compositions. Rich, challenging but melodious and still easy to listen even by the common listeners. Other than his stage and studio activities, he also works as the Head of Performance Concentration at IMI and a lecturer at Universitas Pelita Harapan.

From what we heard from the curator of Saung Jazz Christ Stanley, there will be 13 original compositions in this concert either from their own collections or from the result of their collaborative works.

What will happen when two forces like them collide? You can expect many things, but one thing for sure, the combination between these two artistic musicians who often come with their creative contemporary jazz should make this concert more than worth to watch. Will it be heartfelt, sincere, spontaneous, full of surprises and explorative? Will it show the beautiful harmony between guitar and keyboard alone? You bet. But from what we’ve seen, artists like them love to be unpredictable. This means you could expect whatever you want, but still you’ll be surprised with the unplanned twists. That’s the beauty of jazz, and these two men can make it happen. Riza Arshad/Robert MR ‘Harmonik Duo’ is a very interesting showcase that none of us should miss.

Riza Arshad/Robert MR “Harmonik Duo”

Date: Wednesday, June 19, 2013
Time: 07:30 pm – onward
Location: Institut Français d’Indonésie (IFI) Bandung
Jl. Purnawarman no. 32 Bandung (right in front of Bandung Electronic Center)

Entrance Fee: IDR 20.000

For ticketing and further info, please contact: Eva Caroline: +62 85720098018

Every (good) thing must come to and end. That was our thought when we heard about this final concert of a fusion band which we consider as one of the best fusion bands in Indonesia after the millenium, Sekapur Sirih. It’s a mixed emotions. On one hand we felt happy that they were back in a big way through a solo concert, but on the other hand we hate to see them go. They named the concert as “Hello Goodbye!”, intended to say hi to us but also used it as a farewell party. If you like the twist, they also released their album, finally after being in the process for more than 3 years. Rare combination of purpose, but that was what Sekapur Sirih did in one beautiful Saturday Night in Bandung.

Launched at Potluck Kitchen which is located at the center of Bandung, this free concert was filled with their fans and friends, blended with the resto/cafe guests who coincidentally came to enjoy their dinner.

Sekapur Sirih was born in early 2004 by a couple of students who were active in the student activity/art unit APRES ITB, Bonar, Sandhy and Lukman. They shared common love of jazz, so they formed a band with a mission to introduce easy listening jazz to wider audience, even the common listeners without sacrificing the heart, soul and elements of jazz. Jazz fusion with energetic beat was selected to carry on this mission.

Soon after the band started to visit some events and expanded the size. Everything looked smooth, but in 2006 the band had to loose two members. The empty positions quickly taken by two new members, which happened to be a blessing in disguise. The two new members breathed fresh sound into the band as they became solid as a unit. It didn’t take long time for them to land on many prestigious stages in international-scaled festivals and uncountable smaller ones. The formation of Prasandhya Astagiri Yusuf (bass), Lukman Agus (drum), Agung Dwi Prakasa (keyboard) and two guitarists Kandria Kananta and Andreas Nandiwardhana rose the group to perfection and kept their existance until this final concert.

While some common listeners still experience difficulties to enjoy jazz fusion, the case didn’t happen with Sekapur Sirih. They know how to infuse some pop into their jazz-rock connection in good portion. That said, without betraying all the traditional jazz ingredients. In other words, they can gain appreciation from the non-jazz listeners and jazz aficionados at the same time. Aside from the musicality, the performance are always nice to watch. The two guitarists who stand in front like a twin tower can be somekind of attraction, not to mention the way the share the joy by smiling, laughing and other comfortable gestures on stage.

Cameo acted as the opening band. As usual this quartet of  Desal Sembada (drums) , Iwan Popo (keyboard),  Krishna Alda Radiansyah (bass), Bagaskara Fulki  (guitar)  showed their maturity of playing light fusion/smooth jazz without lowering their passion to pour bags of jazz joy. They played 4 songs, 2 originals and 2 covers: “Rio Frio”, “Winter Wind”, “Epoca Del Sol” and “Human’s Life”.  We haven’t seen them much lately, but tonight they showed a strong statement that they are still alive and kicking. Speaking of the beauty of sparkly smooth jazz in quality, Cameo should be one of the number one contender especially in Bandung region.

The main event was divided into two sessions: Journey 1 , picturing the early moment of the band and then Journey 2 reflecting the period after Keke and Agung joined in. After a little footage of their early action played on the big tv, the Sekapur Sirih appeared under huge applause with two feature players, Tesla Manaf Effendi and Bayu Kristanto.  This team delivered Journey 1 with a medley of Tohpati’s “Serampang Samba”, Acoustic Alchemy’s “Panama Cat”,  Fourplay’s “101 Eastbound”, Lee Ritenour’s “Night Rhythm” and Rio Funk”.  You can imagine how crowded the stage looked. There were three guitarists and two keyboardists all at once, amazingly they could play neat with enough portion of solo runs.  It was a bomb.

Then they invited Jessi to step forward. Jessi is the composer of  “Alamanda (The White Flower)”, one of Sekapur Sirih’s popular track. After he explained the story behind this song, the band delivered the song nicely.

The Journey 2 session started shortly after. Again featuring Tesla, this time Diles Violinist also joined the stage Another set in medley came in, this time combining songs such as Dewa Budjana’s “Temple Island”, the classic Bhaskara 86′s “Betawi”, Mezzoforte’s “Forward Motion”, T-Square’s  “Future Maze” and Casiopea’s “Asayake”.  Another bomb was successfully dropped by Sekapur Sirih and friends, again they showed that stage is where they all belong. Speaking of having fun in front of fired-up crowds, this show nailed it. Cheers and applause rose above the roof.

Two of our favorite song from their collection”Nuansa” and  “Bandung Jakarta PP (Via Cipularang)” came in. The first one brilliantly combine lively light jazz-rock fusion with a little Sundanese ethnic, packed in one jolly action. Then the second one, just like the title of the song which inspired by their path from Bandung to Jakarta through the Cipularang highway, this song was perfect for traveling.  The ‘twin tower’ once again rolled in harmony in this, spreading just about enough rockin’ dose into it.

An emotional moment came when Sandhy expressed his feeling. “To me, this is not just a band, but a family. These guys are all my family, and hopefully someday we will return.” he said. Then Sekapur Sirih played “7 Pagi” followed by  their new track, “It’s Complicated”, written by Kandria ‘Keke’ Kananta which got a little post bop syncopation in the middle.

One of the founder Bonar then gave a couple of words while having a reunion with his former friends on stage.  “I don’t want you guys to quit.” he said to the personnels who directly played Bonar’s composition entitled “Midnight”. With this song, Sekpaur Sirih reached the end of their concert as well as the end of their journey.

So why do they have to say goodbye? Other than the fact that they have their own busy schedules, Sandhy’s decision to continue his study on doctoral level in Germany forced them to put the band to sleep. But according to Sandhy, this doesn’t mean that they are breaking up. “Let’s just say that we go into a pretty lengthy hiatus.” said Sandhy. So there’s a chance for us to see them again in the future, and when that happen, we hope it’s going to be for good. Thank you Sekapur Sirih for high-dose of jazz fusion action all these years, thank you for being a great friends to us. Keep the fusion spirit alive in everything you do. We wish you all the best after this, but remember we still look forward to the day when you announce your comeback. Adieu for now, good luck to each and every one of you, may we see you guys again in a couple of years from now.

See more pictures:

Reporter: Riandy Kurniawan
Photographer: Vierna Mariska Kurniawan

Perhaps we should feel lucky that there are so many regular, annual jazz festivals can be found all over the Indonesian archipelago. Indonesia is not the origin of jazz, yet this country has been remarkably active in producing more and more space for the jazz artists, both local and international to exhibit their creative artistry. If you look at the resources, you will realize that we do have more than enough representative of various jazz hybrids. You name it, we have it. While it’s easy for the bands who embrace the commercial trends to penetrate the market, those who specify the artistic side of jazz need more playground. Some are still struggling, but they still dare to go against all odds, answering their dream and passion bravely. We love it when international stars come and enjoy their gig in Indonesia, especially when they can testify that despite of all the bad news out there about Indonesia, this country is actually safe to visit. Having said that, we also need a huge platform that can accommodate as many local talents as possible.

This year we are going to have it. The very first INDONESIAN JASS FESTIVAL, presented by ALBA Productions is coming soon, on August 30-31, 2013 at ISTORA SENAYAN JAKARTA. This two-day fest are focusing mainly on our pure Indonesian talents (around 120 musicians), spread over 6 stages (one indoor stage and five outdoor stages) with 10 hours duration per-day (from 2:00 pm until midnight).

As the realization of the initiator’s vision, Indonesian Jass Festival comes as the desire of every music lover in Indoesia. This jazz event has aim in connecting the jazz lover, musician, and even the legends, placing the national talents as the host in their own country and providing chance for the young lions who are not getting enough spotlight yet to shine. Indonesian Jass Festival is set to reach all segments of music lovers and upholds the artistical side. Thus, it’s not going to be just a festival, but also has the educational mission which serves through workshops, talk shows (pre-event) and so on.

The representative of Indonesia Jass Festival, Laksmi Dyah Anggraini said that ALBA Production is proud to present this festival. “It’s going to be a national-scaled jass festival. We give opportunity for the Indonesian jass musicians to show their best pieces on stage. Other than that, we also give opportunity for the jass lovers to enjoy the different atmosphere unlike the existed ones so far. We hope this festival can contribute towards the jass artists’ existence in the national music scene as well as letting them to get the appreciation they really deserve.” The warm atmosphere in Indonesian Jass Festival should be able to provide an opportunity for all music lovers and musicians to get good time together. It will come in Musical Garden concept, in which the visitor can feel the different impression from another music event.

Jazz or Jass?

Now let’s talk about the way the mention ‘jazz’ as ‘jass’. Some of you might not know, but the word ‘jazz’ actually came from ‘jass’ at its first era.  Jazz used to be popular with Jass. If we travel back in time, jazz or jass, as a musical language of communication, was created by a fine mixture of ragtime, driving brass bands/marching bands, gospel and of course the growl of the blues. New Orleans was the city where we found the early development of jass before it went spreading to other bright light, big cities like Chicago, New York and soon after, the whole world. The word ‘jass’ was a slang which means ‘heat’ or ‘passion’. Historically speaking, the band of Tom Brown, a trombonist who stood as the frontliner of an early New Orleans band in Chicago claimed to be the first to be mentioned as a ‘Jass Band’ in 1915 and a year later The Original Dixieland Jass Band (ODJB) was born. ODJB made the first ever jazz recordings on February 26, 2017, resulted two songs “Livery Stable Blues” and “Dixie Jass Band One Step”, released on March 7.

So why this festival uses “Jass” instead of “Jazz”? This actually refer to their wish to have the origin spirit of Jazz, Indonesian Jass Festival wants to be one of jazz festivals that bring every jazz community in Indonesia in togetherness in a friendly atmosphere, to stand as a perfect meeting point for all jazz people throughout the country.

Indonesian Jass Festival itself contains idealism as a gift from Indonesian artists to the Republic of Indonesia, served in pure nationalism spirit. Hopefully, this event can unite everyone, rising up our nationalism, and the most important thing is developing music especially Jazz in our own land. As we can see on the flyer, there are red and white which represent the Indonesian flag. Moreover, this event also will be held nearby the independence day of Indonesia.

So many jazz artists have confirmed their participation for this festival, such as Maliq & D’Essentials, Idang Rasjidi, Gugun Blues Shelter, Andien, Syaharani & The Queenfireworks (ESQI:EF), Inna Kamarie, The Groove, Barry Likumahuwa Project (BLP), Soulvibe, Indro Hardjodikoro, Ireng Maulana, Oele Pattiselano, Benny Mustafa, Mus Mudjiono, Balawan, Margie Segers, Benny Likumahuwa, Harry Toledo, Baron, Monita Tahalea, Radhini, Boby Limijaya 8 Horns Jazz Band, Tesla Manaf feat Mahagotra Ganesha, Sandy Winarta Quartet, Beben Jazz & Friends, Sketsa, Julian Marantika Project, Trio Philosphy ABG (Arief Setiadi, Bintang Indrianto, Gerry Herb), Manna, Andi Wiriantono Project, BAG+Beat and many community bands from various regions. More names are coming, just keep yourself updated.

Before the event on August 30th-31th, the committee also prepares the pre-events which will be stand on this June at some places in Jakarta and other cities.

Further info about the schedule of pre-event, ticket, and Indonesian Jass Festival 2013 update can be accessed on
Website    : http://indonesianjassfestival.com
Twitter        : @indojassfest
Facebook    : indonesianjassfestival
Email        : sec@indonesianjassfestival.com

Or contact us at: Jl. Dharmawangsa X No 82, Kebayoran Baru Jakarta Selatan
Tel        : +62 21 7268558/7257108
Fax        : +62 21 72787512/72783609

It’s time to celebrate jazz with the spirit of nationalism. For all jazz musicians and jazz aficionados let’s be a part of this event.
Untukmu Indonesia!

Written by: Shely Napitupulu and Riandy Kurniawan

It’s never easy to keep things going if you don’t have passion and courage. For Klab Jazz especially its founder, Dwi Cahya Yuniman, this is a case of answering the calling to contribute towards jazz development especially in the local region of Bandung. We have seen the persistance to spread the jazz joy from one cafe to another, fighting against all odds, struggling with many things yet the never say die spirit enables them to overcome the obstacles. We have been walking side by side for the last 5 years, watching Klab Jazz fight bravely just to keep the jazz flame alive in Bandung. With minimum budget, each regular event has been consistanly made for free. What they provide is a melting pot of jazz artists and fans, seizing the moment under one roof, sharing the joy and happiness in one musical ‘language’ called jazz.

Last Friday night was supposed to be time to enjoy another edition of Fusion Flava, the regular event intended to highlight the hybrid which embraces electrifying rock and other styles inside jazz pattern. Instead, Dwi Cahya Yuniman decided to fill it with a new program called “Jazz Meeting Point.” This step has to be taken to replace some of the regular ‘jazz in general’ showcases weren’t continued anymore by the venue. Other than the case of including a part of the venue’s name, Sixty-Meeting Point & Cafe, this event, like any other regular ones from Klab Jazz is intended to socialize jazz to the society as well as to stimulate new players into this field. Thus, an event like this has many benefits. The jazz lovers can have a place to recharge themselves with jazz, the musicians can learn from their fellows, get to know to one another and see what they can come up from there, creatively speaking. Therefore, Jazz Meeting Point is exactly the right choice for a name.

While most of the events still struggle to gain loyal attendance, we believe in time both the musicians and fans will realize the importance of their visit. No event would succeed without your support. With the good quality of performers in every edition, the support from the jazz fans and artists are urgently needed. You can show your support by simply coming to the event.

Halfwhole Project, a group of four consists of Christ Stanley (piano), Gallang Perdhana Dalimunthe (bass), Edward Manurung (drums) and Kenneth Timotius Djaja (saxophone) started the show by pouring high-doses of jazz right away. They are still relatively young, but they already show the exact maturity level and good skills.

They started with The Beatles’ song, “Blackbird” served smooth and chilled.  Duke Ellington’s “Caravan” became the next pick. They selected bop outfit into this song with a little straightahead here and there.  Variety of drum beating was sensational, also Kenneth’s wild ride on saxophone as usual was attractive. For the last presentation for the opening, they dropped a cool blues track and Chick Corea’s “Got a Match!” in a super-fast bop.It wasn’t easy at all to play Chick Corea’s collection, but they did it very well.

Then came the time for us to see what the new comer Sasadana got in store. This is a new group  of five, still one month old, consists of very young talents (high school and junior high schoolers)  who are brave enough to play some jazz by using the combination of modern, western and traditional, eastern instruments. Pangestu Hning Bhawana (violin), Rifky Adam Rahman (bass), Digun Guntara Barnas (drum, tatabeuhan), Linggga Angling Raspati (bamboo flute) and Mikhael Jason Aditya (keyboard) showed the ability that exceeded their age level. Some of the instruments are not the usual ones to use in jazz, but Sasadana proved that jazz can be played nicely with just about any instruments.

The first was an overture titled “Bubuka”  which started with the great synch between drum and tatabeuhan (set of double-headed kendangs). Gaining huge applause from the crowds, they contined with Didier Lockwood’s “The Kid”. If most of the band use keyboard or guitar as the main melody, this group bravely chose violin to stand in front. Very talented and creative kids they really are. Interestingly they took Jaco Pastorius’ “Chicken” and funked everyone in a very different way. What even crazier is that they pinned Chick Corea’s “Spain” in Sundanese pentatonic scale before they carried on with the original melody but still full with twists, including placing the song into Sundanese ambience from time to time.  What a surprise! The combination of drums and tatabeuhan wasn’t just complementing each other but actually served a whole lotta action as well as opening up a new musical terrain.

They featured a vocalist named Tiara Effendi to join them. Together with Tiara they presented their original song and then reached the peak with “Djanger Bali.” Groovy, funky, energetic with thick ethnic Sundanese breeze, what’s not to love from their creativity and talent. The joy of playing was on top too. They joked as if they were among friends without any stage fright. Good vibe, good touch and brave play, that’s what we got from Sasadana. Perhaps with more appearance these young guns would emerge as one of front-runners, especially in the field of challenging ethnic-coated jazz.

Sonny Akbar was back again in this edition. We often saw him some years ago all over Klab Jazz’s regular events, but then he was rarely found either on stage or among the attendance. As usual, he looked serious when he was playing, just like scientist doing research.After “” as the first song, they dropped “Bluesette” in lovely straightahead. Sonny used many pentatonic scales in his improvisation, making his outside notes sounded different than usual.

Sonny called two female singersCaca and Sessy  to sing two songs, “Half of my Soul Miss You” and “Diam”.  Both were more pop-ish, yet Sonny’s jazz soul were still intact fully.

Exactly the way we loved him back then, he brought the complexity of jazz with high technique through set of songs. Performing with the young Geby Christian on drums and Tuwuh Prasodjo on bass, plus two ladies on vocals, Sonny showed that he still holds the authentic jazz vibes within him. We loved him then, we love him now. As he’s preparing an album, we wish him all the best. This man really got talent, so it’s about time for him to reach the recordings.

The host Halfwhole Project took over the stage again. The funky urban jazz sound was delivered nice and sound. Next, Puspallia Panggabean came onto the stage and delivered some standards with her lovely, breezy jazz vocal. “Take Five”, “It Might As Well Be Spring”,  “Someone Who Watch Over Me” and the joyful “Take the ‘A’ Train” and “I Got Rhythm”.  Swingy, funky and lovely, it’s always nice to hear her sing.

With their performance, the whole premiere edition was wrapped exactly at 11:00 pm. If before we enjoyed only fusion from this particular corner of Bandung, this time we were spoiled with loads of jazz in full variety, from bebop, swing and stuffs all the way to reach the uniqueness of playing jazz standard by using a couple of traditional instruments. Starting from now, you should know that whenever you need some jazz treatment on the second Friday of each month, you can always come to this very place. You won’t be dissapointed, because other than the jazz thingy, Sixty Meeting Point & Cafe serves delicious food and variety of yummy drinks with affordable place plus a very cozy environment. You’ll love it. Remember, other than getting entertained, you can always participate the local jazz event by just attending it, that is if you want to keep the jazz alive in your city. Thank you Klab Jazz and all the performers. Never give up on the good thing, see you again soon.

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Reporter & Photographer: Riandy Kurniawan

Everybody has their own way to tell story. For musicians, music is a very reliable media where they can pour their heart out not in spoken words but through stream of notes. When they execute their compositions, suddenly we can feel what they feel. We get happy with them, we share sadness, feeling romantic, playful, or occasionally being dragged into a soundscapic journey just like having an adventure into the musical mind of particular artist.

That’s the impression we got from listening to Kekko Fornarelli, a pianist and composer originally from Bari, Italy. Today he’s listed as one of the most widely appreciated artists internationally. When you listen to him, you will know that music is not only to entertain anymore. It can be a media of expression, a powerful source to share and tell the story, an appreciation room where action exist, even an invitation to embark on a wonderous journey.

After having huge success in spreading his music around the world, reaching Russia and many other European nations, USA, Asia and Australia, now he’s coming to Indonesia to perform at Gedung Kesenian Jakarta as a part of the annual Jakarta Anniversary Festival XI-2013. Since 11 years ago, this festival is made to celebrate the anniversary of Indonesia’s capital. This year the festival will be held on 5 to 23 June 2013 presenting variety of arts, ranging from theatrical dance, contemporary painting exhibition, contemprary dance, orchestra, collaborative joint between India and Indonesia, contemporary circus and last but not least, jazz. (Click the photo on the left side to see the complete schedule of Jakarta Anniversary Festival IX-2013 or simply click here). Representing jazz as one of the art forms, Kekko Fornarelli will perform at 17 June, starting at 8:00 pm in a formation of trio together with Giorgio Vendola (double bass) and Dario Congedo (drums/percussions).

Kekko’s encounter with piano started at early age. He already learned piano when he was still 3 years old. When he reached 18 he fell in love with jazz, so in love that he decided to drop out from the music school to enter the life journey of musical discovery, something that led him to travel all around the world. This musical discovery opened up the chance for him to meet a great number of artits; this enabled him to develop his skill and find his identity.

His process didn’t end just yet. He moved to France in 2005 and lived there for three years. He released two albums Circular Thought and A French Man in New York, both critically acclaimed and made him widely recognized throughout continents. Then came the time for him to restrospect. He was on hiatus for three years, spent contemplating and pursuing knowledge towards his personal vision of music. Three years of darkness for him, but it was all for good. During this period he found out that jazz actually needs to turn into something different. For him, jazz should be set free, out from the sometimes outdated tradition. This groundbreaking new ideology emerged in Room of Mirrors (2011), showing a vast transformation of a man, utilizing all the talents he possessed to bring a distinctive form of jazz. Now in 2013 he strikes back with his new project, Kekko Fornarelli Trio for a worldwide tour.

Now let’s take a look at his trio. This project of his has been achieving success in touring around Europe since last year. Having two other virtuoso companions has enabled him to transcribe his idea into a new height of jazz presentation. With Kekko Fornarelli Trio, music is not just to listen to anymore.

You should listen to the way they paint the colorful harmony by combining electronic and acoustic instruments, criss-crossing the modern European flavor and neoclassical lyricism, using his unique concept to drag us into a mind and mood traveling, all the way from the darkest to the clearest, from luxury to simplicity, creating something imaginary in reality. There’s drama, high intensity action, romance, and everything in between. Perhaps the way trumpeter who has already performed in Indonesia, Paolo Fresu described him could explain it all in more simple way: “As long as there are musicians as open minded as Kekko Fornarelli, jazz will carry on being the World’s music. Kekko’s intimacy is made of rich melodies and chord progressions which evoke some delicate forms of modern jazz, but are translated by that particular touch which makes him one of the most interesting young pianist of the moment.”

Recently Kekko Fornarelli Trio is placed in the Top 10 Most Voted Italian Jazz Formation in Jazzit Awards 2012 competition. It’s good that the historical Gedung Kesenian Jakarta become one of his destination during the worldwide tour, so we can experience his exquisite taste of jazz. Do come and give a moment for him and his fellows to play. In no time you will find out that they do have different stories to share, presenting a different approach which you can feel the perfect combination between suspense and freedom, the enchanting classical and modern jazz touch, packed by genius improvisations over many musical terrains, which all explains why they are said to be a world-winning acclaimed group.

Kekko Fornarelli Trio

Kekko Fornarelli (piano & synthesizer)
Giorgio Vendola (double bass)
Dario Congedo (drums)

Date: Monday, June 17, 2013
Time: 08:00 pm – onward
Location: Gedung Kesenian Jakarta
Jl. Gedung Kesenian no 1, Jakarta, 10710

Ticket price: IDR 100.000 and IDR 75.000 (balcony)

Buy the ticket at Jazzuality Online Store: 

For more info, contact:
- Istituto Italiano di Cultura Jakarta (IIC): +62 21 – 3927531/32
- Gedung Kesenian Jakarta: 021 – 3441892 and 085715911169 (sms only), email: tiket@gedungkesenianjakarta.co.id

Meet AISAKU YOKOGAWA. He’s a multitalented pure Japanese who sings Tagalog, Japanese, English and fancies jazz. We still remember when he decided to take a pause from jazz for a while in 2012, but left us a promise that he would be back jazzin’ again by 2013. Aisaku kept his promise, because here comes an event where he’s back to his nature. “I’m getting my feet on jazz again!” he told us happily. We’re happy to see him back. If you live in Philippines especially around Makati, take a look at this upcoming jazz night with this charming young man.

JAZZ JAMMIN’ THURSDAYS @ THE SOCIETY LOUNGE (Makati Ave. corner Paseo De Roxas, Makati City) treats you to a night filled with Jazz music featuring multi-awarded Japanese Jazz Artist, Aisaku Yokogawa together with special guests: Yumi Kutsukawa, Jon Vera Perez, Zen Celdran, and Michele Fitzgerald on June 20, 2013, 8:00 pm onwards in Society Lounge, GF Atrium Bldg., corner Paseo De Roxas, Makati City. FREE ENTRANCE / FREE VALET PARKING.

Aisaku Yokogawa is a 25 year old full-blooded Japanese known for his ramen-eating commercial in Lucky Me! And Filipino covers such as IKAW PA RIN, ISANG MUNDO ISANG AWIT released under I&I Records and Universal Records. He has been active as a Jazz singer and OPM artist in the local music scene winning various awards such as Asian Star Entertainer Awards, People’s Choice Awards, Global Excellence Awards  as ‘Outstanding Male Balladeer & Jazz Artist / Most Promising Host’.

Born and raised by Japanese parents, Aisaku is an amazing multi-lingual performer. Aside from singing in his native tongue, he never fails to surprise the audience as this sleepy-eyed lad dishes out OPM favorites in flawless Tagalog. Aisaku’s talent as a performer is evident in his humor as a host and in his repertoire of Latin ditties translated into Tagalog known as “SALINAWIT”, by no less than National Artist Pete Lacaba, and Japanese songs popularized by Ted Ito. Don’t miss this chance to see Aisaku’s live performance with his brand of music in a mix of ballad, jazz and bossa nova in different languages.

Accompanying him is Riki Gonzalez on Guitars, Ed Cariño on Bass, William Elazegui on Drums, Laura Austria on vocals and congas, with special performances from guest artists and friends of Aisaku.

Featured guest artists are – Yumi Kutsukawa, a 22 year old Filipino with Russian and Japanese descent known with her jazz-gifted vocals. Awarded Global Excellence Awards as “Outstanding Young Pop Jazz Vocalist”, be prepared to see one of the freshest jazz talents in the country; – John Vera Perez, international singer-pianist, composer, and music producer who is back from United States after directing over 30 major shows, theatre /orchestra (Graduated New England Conservatory of Music) and making it to the top 40 out of 75,000 in NBC’s America’s Got Talent; – Zen Celdran, seasoned jazz artist with her trademark of a husky and enchanting voice so to lighten up the evening; – together with Michelle Fitzgerald jazz singer/pianist to surprise us with her exquisite performance of jazz standards. A must catch to see these live performance in a row!

There will be a live jamming on the third set as they have surprise guests and artists from the local jazz scene. If you are currently in Philippines, don’t miss this one! Let’s all have an intimate night of jazz together with Aisaku and his friends! Arigato Gozaimasu!

For Details, Kindly contact
Phone Number: (+63 2) 408-1852
Email: aisaku.jazz@gmail.com

Jazz and world music from the Indian Ocean countries featured prominently at two terrific events this month in Reunion island: the Indian Ocean Music Market Association (IOMMA)’s annual conference (www.iomma.net) and the 10^th Sakifo Music Festival (www.sakifo.com)!

Musicians, festival organisers, labels, artiste managers and media came from a range of countries, such as Seychelles, Mauritius, Madagascar, India, Australia, South Africa, Tanzania, China, Canada, UK, USA, Holland and France.

Panel discussions were held for three days on topics such as promotion of local music, cultural cooperation between countries in the Indian Ocean region, organising festivals and tours, archiving traditional music, and the growth of genres such as jazz and electro. Workshops were also held on topics such as digital tools and PR for promoting artistes.

Producers of various festivals shared insights on their programming and promotion approaches, such as Cape Town International Jazz Festival (South Africa), Kolkata Jazz Festival (India), Madajazzcar (Madagascar Jazz Festival), Sauti za Busara (Tanzania), Australasia World Music Expo (Australia), Jodhpur Riff and IndiEarth xChange (India).

Festival director Jerome Galabert and his team put together a high-powered delegation of 250 local and international music professionals, as well as weekday music showcases in the evening and a packed 3-day festival spanning the weekend.

The opening night performance set the stage for 10 days of terrific music, and featured the talented and charming Reunion artiste Yaelle Trules and the creative percussion quartet Patyatann from Mauritius. On the second day, the Madagascar showcase included Regis Gizavo and two bands in the high-energy tsapiky style (Teta, Damily). They were joined by artistes Urbain Phileas and Tricodpo from Reunion who played local maloya music.

The evening showcase also featured high-energy acts such as the South African psychedelic rock band The Brother Moves On, and Chinese electro-pop disco trio Nova Heart; two electro groups ended the packed performances late at night — Teddy Boy Kill (India) and Psychorigid (Reunion).

The second evening showcase was outstanding, and consisted of veteran maloya artiste Tiloun followed by the young and charismatic Maya Kamaty, who blended maloya with folk music. Jazz fans were delighted with the performance by harmonica virtuoso Olivier Ker Ourio, who led a tight quartet in a superb instrumental showcase mixing jazz with local Reunion rhythms; Olivier also read out a love poem, which turned out to be an ode to Reunion.

The third evening showcase, this time in an indoor setting, featured Australian bands King Fisha (reggae), Electric Empire (soul/funk) and True Live (hip-hop blended with elements of jazz, featuring cello and violin).

The main Sakifo festival was held in Saint-Pierre, a city renowned for its lively waterfront and nightlife. Sakifo in Creole means, “this is what you need,” and the festival is ranked highly by music critics and the industry.

The Festival, spread across six stages for almost 12 hours each day, kicked off in fine style with evening performances by Nathalie Natiembe (maloya fusion) and Manu Chao (reggae-rock). A range of artistes showed that traditional maloya music from Reunion is alive and well and growing despite cultural discrimination just a couple of decades ago. Gren Seme, Ziskakan, Waki Band, Tapok, Alex Sorres and Christine Salem showcased the diversity and depth of maloya-based music. The university band MOB also showed that maloya is alive and well in the younger generation of Reunion.

Jazz and blues fans were also pleased with big-stage acts such as Heymoonshaker (blues beatbox duo) and Hypnotic Brass Ensemble (funk). Electro music was showcased on a breathtaking stage right on the beach, and featured local DJ Karl Hungus with rare groove, Hugo Mendez (from London) and Black Ben (from Paris).

New turf was carved by Winston McAnuff & Fixi (reggae and Western folk; with a percussionist performing entirely acapella) and Lelou Menwar (Mauritius sega and blues), who also jammed with French world music band Lo’Jo.

Another South African group which made a well-received appearance was the electro-folk band Bongeziwe. Mali’s legendary Salif Keita delivered a set which was trancelike in the waves of percussion and stellar solos on the kora, along with his soaring vocals.

Soul star Selah Sue and a number of rap and French pop rock acts played on the second day of the festival. Californian roots reggae band Groundation delivered a magnificent set, with heavy influences of jazz and dub and rousing solos on trumpet, keyboards, percussion and saxophone. Other high-energy live acts were Mounawar (Comorean islands), Black Bazar (Congo) and Jaojoby (Madagascar). Black Bazar showcased an infectious range of rumba along with Cuban singer Niuver.

In addition to the showcased groups, I also met up with a number of emerging artistes such as Anne Drula, Kerguelen, Manawa, Riskab, Isiah Shaka, Telkel, Vincent Corvec, Bref Trio and Tapok.

My detailed interviews with some of the artistes are coming up next, along with my reviews of their albums. I must also thank all the translators who kept up with my broadband Indian speech! I look forward to being at the IOMMA and Sakifo music festivals again next year, and to visit more of this beautiful tropical island with its giant surf waves, volcanic highlands, stunning racial mixes, diverse cultures, exotic cuisine and flavourful rums!

 Merci La Réunion!

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Written by Madanmohan Rao
Editor & DJ, World Music and Jazz; Bangalore
Global Correspondent for Jazzuality.com
Photos are courtesy of Madanmohan Rao

After using “Fusion Flava” as the title for three previous edition at Sixty-Meeting Point & Cafe Bandung, Klab Jazz decided to reset the regular event under a new program called “Jazz Meeting Point”. As the name states, now you can get a lot more than just fusion, with all the variety, twist and flow the way you like from the music corner we called jazz.

Klab Jazz’s founder Dwi Cahya Yuniman explained why it’s necessary to change the course. “When we started Fusion Flava last February, there were still three monthly regular jazz events: one Prime Time Jazz and two editions of Sunday Jazz. At that time, in order to give more variety, I decided to present something more specific, and that’s fusion.” he said. But now some of these regular programs have stopped running. With the venue’s approval, Klab Jazz makes a slight change by presenting wider than just fusion. The name choosen is Jazz Meeting Point. The premiere edition is scheduled to come this week, on Friday, June 14, 2013.

For this premiere edition of Jazz Meeting Point, the combination of Bandung jazz scene’s active players and potential new comers are ready to roll.

Halfwhole Project, the quartet with skillful young players in every corner is one of them. Still around 2 years as a unit, this group has been showing tremendous progress. Christ Stanley (piano), Gallang Perdhana Dalimunthe (bass), Edward Manurung (drums) and Kenneth Timotius Djaja (saxophone) are going to show once again why they are said to be the best jazz quartet in Bandung today. Joining them is Puspallia Panggabean, the female jazz singer with top notch vocal quality. Sonny Akbar, a pianist who has played in so many Klab Jazz’s event since 2005 will give his contribution. You can expect challenging play from him as he let his fingers dance above the keys.

Completing the lineup is a new band consists of youngsters named Sasadana. This band is interesting since the personnels dare to combine instruments from East and West. Pangestu Hning Bhawana (violin), Rifky Adam Rahman (bass), Digun Guntara Barnas (drum, tatabeuhan), Linggga Angling Raspati (bamboo flute) and Mikhael Jason Aditya (keyboard) are still young, but their ability exceed their age range.

Calling out all the jazz lovers in Bandung and the musicians to gather in this free, community event. Your participation and support are urgently needed in order to keep the community event running. See you there!

Jazz Meeting Point

Date: Friday, June 14, 2013
Time: 7:00 pm – 11:00 pm
Location: Sixty – Meeting Point & Cafe, Jl. Naripan no 30 Bandung

FREE EVENT

Featuring (in alphabetical order):

:: HALFWHOLE PROJECT
- Christ Stanley piano
- Gallang Perdhana Dalimunthe bass
- Edward Manurung drums
- Kenneth Timotius Djaja saxophone

:: PUSPALLIA PANGGABEAN

:: SASADANA
- Pangestu Hning Bhawana violin
- Rifky Adam Rahman bass
- Digun Guntara Barnas drum, tatabeuhan
- Lingga Angling Raspati bamboo flute
- Mikhael Jason Aditya keyboard

and

:: SONNY AKBAR
personnels to be announced