Nusantara Beat – Djanger / Borondong Garing (Les Disques Bongo Joe, 2023)
Nusantara Beat, an Amsterdam-based sextet, performs invigorating and contemporary music rooted in Indonesian traditions. The group delivers a mix of pop beats, tropical and enigmatic harmonies that transports the audience on an expedition to the ancestral homeland.
“Djanger” exemplifies this artistic vision by presenting a contemporary rendition of a Balinese traditional composition originating from the year 1920. Drawing inspiration from the captivating janger dance, which enjoys immense popularity in Bali and has influenced western musicians such as Tony Scott, John Cale, and David Byrne, Nusantara Beat adeptly revitalizes this age-old piece.
Nusantara Beat’s sound revolves around enthralling vocal melodies, classic synthesizer tones, and guitar sounds reminiscent of 1960s surf music. Of particular note are the vocals. While maintaining the essence of the traditional vocal style, Nusantara Beat introduces modern embellishments through harmonies and layered vocal textures, imbuing their music with a lavish and captivating soundscape.
The band includes members from Jungle By Night, POM, The Mysterons, Altin Gun, Surf Aid-Kit and EUT, all 1st, 2nd en 3rd generation Dutch Indonesians that are rediscovering their roots through the music.
Musicians: Gino Groeneveld on percussion; Jordy Sanger on guitar; Megan De Klerk on vocals; Michael Joshua on bass; Rouzy Portier on guitar, keys; and Sonny Groeneveld on drums.
Author: Angel Romero
Angel Romero y Ruiz has dedicated his life to musical exploration. His efforts included the creation of two online portals, worldmusiccentral.org and musicasdelmundo.com. In addition, Angel is the co-founder of the Transglobal World Music Chart, a panel of world music DJs and writers that celebrates global sounds. Furthermore, he delved into the record business, producing world music studio albums and compilations. His works have appeared on Alula Records, Ellipsis Arts, Indígena Records and Music of the World.