As the time draws nearer, finally the series of Java Jazz pre-event, popularly known as Java Jazz On The Move (JJOTM) has started. It’s going to be held in many different venues, and the opening was very special at the place where jazz has found its home since about a year ago, Margo City.

Margo City is known as the home of Margo Friday Jazz, a weekly event that is going on strong until today. It’s the place where the jazz community in Jakarta, musicians and jazz lovers join together to enjoy what jazz can bring. Margo Friday Jazz was just celebrating its 1st Anniversary last week with the theme “Jazz Reunion” featuring many great jazz artists, including Benny Likumahuwa Jazz Connection, Peppy Probo, Rio Moreno Latin Combo, Barry Likumahuwa Project and many more. Right after that, the 54th edition of Margo Friday Jazz this week was made especially to start the first Java Jazz On The Move, the warming up that leads to the main event, Java Jazz Festival 2010.

The rain poured down quite heavily, but it wasn’t enough to stop the event, and definately didn’t stop the audience to enjoy the show. JJOTM started on time at 7:00 PM. It felt romantic actually to see the show at the beautiful Margo City’s old house concept with the pouring rain like this. It was even better with jazz music served from the stage. We really enjoyed it.

We got many performers for this 54th week of Margo Friday Jazz: Java Jazz on the Move. Among them including Nathan and Friends, Tiga Mawarni, Skywalk, Peppy Probo and Margo Band, First Impression, Apstredio, Falseto, and of course 21st Night and Rafi & the Beat. All of them gave their best performance for the night.

We think it was perfect to open up Java Jazz On The Move at Margo Friday Jazz, the place that always has a very strong jazz community in Jakarta. And don’t forget the fact that Margo Friday Jazz’ location is near from two big university, Universitas Indonesia and Universitas Gunadarma. During the weekend like this, Margo City is always crowded with many people. So, it was perfect to place a Mobile Ticket Box using a car that was especially and uniquely designed for selling the tickets with the special student price. Surprisingly the special price for students was very cheap, so if you are still a student, you shouldn’t miss this chance to get the ticket a lot cheaper than the normal price. (Check out the special student price here)

Here’s a little more info about Mobile Ticket Box. It’s going to visit many selected universities to offer the special ticket price for students. Actually Peter Gontha, the Chairman of Java Jazz had asked this mobile ticket box to go further until Surabaya, but the crews couldn’t make it. Because of that, Mobile Ticket Box will only go as far as Yogyakarta. There are 5000 tickets ready to buy, so make sure you get it as soon as possible.

All the performers were fantastic for tonight. It was a success, even the rain couldn’t disturb it at all. As now the Java Jazz on the Move is running until we reach the main event at 5,6 and 7 March 2010, check out the schedule to be a part of this lively pre-event. (get the complete schedule of Java Jazz on the Move here) . The heat is on. Can you feel it? Are you ready to have some of the world’s greatest artists, our own local most amazing talents and legends perform right in front of you?  Let’s keep on jazzin’ until the d-day!

See more pictures:

Reporter: Novan Yahya Renatal
Photographer: Mark Swapo
Editor : Riandy Kurniawan

If you have your own band or a soloist, if you are talented and wish to perform at AXIS Jakarta International Java Jazz Festival 2010,  this is your chance to make it happen!

AXIS is giving you a chance to show what you got in the one of the biggest jazz event in the world. The audition will start soon, for solo performance or jazz group with 5 personnels at max, with age ranging between 15 to 35 year old.

Check out the terms and condition:

• All the band personnel have AXIS number

• The duration for each band/solo is 5 minutes (2 minutes for instrument settings and 3 minutes performance)

• 5 person max for each group. If the band member exceeds this limit, the responsible will be given to the band itself.

• Genre: Jazz

• Not in agreement or contract with any particular label or brand

• The band should perform 1 song in the audition

• The Event Organizer will provide only 1 set of standard band

• The participants and supporters are prohibited to do any criminal act

• No weapons or any sharps objects allowed in the audition

• No drugs, alcohol or any other psychotropical substances are allowed in the audition

Register yourself starting from January 20 to February 14, 2010 at any AXIS center near you. Get the form at these radio stations and AXIS shops as listed below:

Radios:

Jakarta
- JAK FM, 101 FM (Menara Imperium Lt. P7, Jl HR Rasuna Said Jakarta)
cp: ILHAM (+62 818937710 )
- Motion, 97.5 FM (Gedung Kontan Lt. 2, Jl. Kebayoran Lama 1119)
cp: SUSI ( +62 8129248480 )

Bandung
Ardan FM, 105.9 FM (Jl. Cipaganti No 159)
cp: Shindu (+ 62 8122366833)

Medan
Kiss FM, 105 FM (Jl. Cut Nyak Dien No. 16)
cp: Alik (+62 81361780105)

Surabaya
Colors, 87.7 FM (Jl. Dharmahusada Indah Utara, Blok U/111)
cp: Heru (+62 87851230666)

Yogyakarta
Unisi, 104.5 FM (Jl Demangan Baru No. 24)
cp: Luki (+62 8122955304)

Palembang
Pesona Indah 99.1 FM (Jl. Veteran No. 757D)
cp: Bp Sofyan (+62 8122955304)

Or at any AXIS shop :
1. AXIS shop Plaza Semanggi (Jakarta)
2. AXIS shop Istana Plaza (Bandung)
3. AXIS shop Tunjungan Plaza 3 (Surabaya)
4. AXIS shop Jogjakarta Kota Baru (Yogya)
5. AXIS shop Plaza Millenium (Medan)
6. AXIS shop Indah Plaza Internasional (Palembang)

For more information please contact: +62 838 8000 838

Note: The audition will begin on February 20 – 21, 2010

Prepare yourself and get ready to perform at the prestigious AXIS Jakarta International Java Jazz Festival 2010. Good luck!

It’s great to know that Serambi Jazz is confirmed to continue their mission, following their success in 2009 with a series of two-monthly event. Through these events that were held all through last year, we could clearly see that the relationship between Germany and Indonesia, especially in music, which as a matter of fact had established in 1967 is blossoming again.

Serambi Jazz is the place for both the musicians and in bigger scale, the people in these two great nation to know and understand each other, exchanging informations and cultural backgrounds, including jazz as one of the world’s greatest heritage. Not only on-stage concerts, but Serambi Jazz also commited to participate in the educational programs with series of workshops.

The response has been great so far. Through 2009 we saw many amazingly gifted musicians from both countries. The program has been done very well with a lot of variations without forgetting the quality of the performers and their presentations. Surely Serambi Jazz, as an important program of Goethe Institut, will always be one of a major aspect in music development for Germany and Indonesia. Riza Arshad, the curator of Serambi Jazz hopes that this program will be able to contribute something in cultural learning, also able to be the place to find a high quality jazz presentation, as a part of all jazz events in Indonesia especially in Jakarta. He also hoped through Serambi Jazz we could establish an intimate relationship between the musicians and the jazz lovers, both in Germany and Indonesia. May this relationship grows to generations to come. And Jazzuality.com are always ready to be a part of this important mission.

Now, check this out. The 2010 Serambi Jazz will start this month with a sensational trio from Germany, Kristiina Tuomi Trio, also known as Tuomi. Lead by Kristiina Tuomi, originally from Finland but currently lives in Berlin, Germany, this trio has a unique blend of superb songwriting and acoustic chamber composition. Besides Tuomi on vocal, the band consists of Carsten Daerr on piano and Carlos Bica on contrabass. Bica is the one that makes almost all the compositions for this trio.

Kristiina Tuomi’s alto voice is superb. Carsten Daerr’s prime piano style and the high skill of improvisation from Carlos Bica makes this group able to deliver their music in variety, blending jazz, pop, romantic and classical. Their lyrics are often appear as beautiful as a sonnet, the poetic forms that can be found in lyric poetry originally from Europe. Some of Shakespeare’s sonnet and Edgar Allan Poe’s poems are placed together with Rainer Maria Rilke’s poetic writings or Sting’s ballad. The result is poetry and music, including jazz, an on-going love affair that has always been on romanticly over the decades. Tuomi always knows how to combine German poetic art with Nordic spirit. You’ll amaze with the musicality they bring, no doubt about it.

Kristiina Tuomi trio will open the 2010 Serambi Jazz series. Not only in Goethe Jakarta, but they will also land in Bandung. There will be a workshop too held by Kristiina. Make sure you won’t miss the event. Check out the schedule below.

Serambi Jazz presents: Kristiina Tuomi Trio

Thursday, February 11, 2010
Time: 08:30 PM onwards
Location: BP Bumi Sangkuriang
Jl. Kiputih no. 12 Bandung, West Java Indonesia

Friday, February 12,2010
Time; 08:30 PM onwards
Location: GoetheHaus
Jl. Sam Ratulangi 9-15, Menteng. Jakarta Pusat

FREE OF CHARGE

Contact:
Goethe Institut Jakarta: +62 21 23550208 ext 116
Goethe Institut Bandung: + 62 22 4212417

For more info about Kristiina Tuomi trio, log on to Tuomi’s official website and myspace

We have reached the 19th Jazz Break Revival. It’s the first step after the maturity number that we have just passed last month. We were surprised by the coming of the legendary band Chaseiro on Jazz Break Revival January edition, giving out a very memorable performance for all their fans in Bandung. (Check out our exclusive interview with Chaseiro here) And what a way to kick off the start of this edition. This time it wasn’t only a concert, but Jazz Break Revival has touched the educational side of music. We always believe that jazz development won’t be enough if we only think about on-stage performance. The educational program is needed as well. It can be beneficial to everyone who are serious about building themselves in jazz, and that, of course, will benefit our music world.

As usual KlabJazz, BP Bumi Sangkuriang and Melinda Hospital are those who presented this edition. If the previous events started at night, this time the event kicked off earlier in the afternoon. The workshop started this month’s Jazz Break Revival with the topic “Jazz Basics”. The clinician for this workshop was Julie Spithill from University of Sydney Conservatorium of Music as a part of special collaboration with Studio Musik Melodia, and supported by our fabulous Imelda Rosalin.

Julie Spithill is absolutely no stranger to music. She has been contributing a lot  for many years. She has worked with David Baker, Hal Galper, Dave Leibman, John Scofield, Ed Soph, Sonny Stitt and many others. She holds degrees in Music and Education and a Masters degree in Music Education, and currently completing a PhD. Julie gave up her performance career to concentrate on pedagogy in the early 1990’s. Besides teaching at Sydney University Conservatorium of Music, she has also written many books on intervals, chords and rhythm for her clinics, and teaching books for children as well. Many of her students have became famous, including one of the most amazing pianist we have in Indonesia, Indra Lesmana.

Julie Spithill hosted the workshop in a very friendly way. She opened up with a simple question many have asked, “What is jazz?” This is a very simple question but difficult to answer. Spithill simply said that jazz is what you want it to be. It could be your hobby, passion, career and anything you wish to make it as. Over a hundred years, jazz has grown so much, accumulated into many forms, styles and shapes we all know today. There are over 50 different sub genres of jazz so far, and it will still grow from time to time. Basically jazz is cored on four important elements, Melody, Rhythm, Harmony and Improvisation. Right after the break, Julie got a surprise from Tesla who played his own new composition especially made for Julie.

At 7:45 pm, the stage performance began. Opened by Chalk For Cheese, we say it’s about time to have them again. We haven’t seen them a lot lately. This is a very interesting band with the style that suits the music trend today in Indonesia. Labeled themselves as”The new nu jazz/groove band in the block”, their crunchy groove will place them higher in no time. Their beat shuffle, soul and groove with great players on every instruments, plus the unique vocal of Trianzani Sulshi are the main ingredients to bring them into the spotlight. Besides Trianzani Sulshi, there are Ferry “Gembong” Nurhayat (keyboard), Arif Baradja (drums), Iman Rahman (bass), Ferdy Apriady (sax) and Martin Handy (guitar).

The first song was “Berbisik Maaf”, and the groove was on. The next song was a ambience groove jazz version of one famous pop song called “Cari Pacar Lagi”. The delicious “Apple Pie Order” came next, followed by “Sukmaku” and “Bercerita Jingga“. It was nice to see them again, and we hope to see them again in the future.

The next band performing was “B.L.A.V”. Unfortunately the keyboardist Bayu was late, so they just played 2 songs without him. Mohammad Athar (guitar), Septian Linanto (drums) and Rahel Pradika Purba (vocal) took the stage and brought some songs  including “Softly As the Morning Sunrise”.

BAG Trio consists of some personnels from different bands. They are young, talented and still energic, full with ideas and creativity. We have Gerald Situmorang as the guitarist, half of the dynamic duo SKETSA who just launched their debut album, “Childhood’s Dream” last Sunday (January 31,2010). With the skill he has, surely he’s someone to look for in the future. We also have Aldhi Mahardika, the drummer of NEW SEASON, the winner of 2008’s JGTC, who is also active in Jazzyphonic. Establishing in such diversity, BAG Trio appears as a unique trio. They combine jazz, funk, rock and world music in their style.  On the bass section we got Dimas Soegiharto replacing Bramantyo Musyanif who couldn’t make it for tonight.

That was exactly what they showed on stage. It was fusion on high, blending with a little african rhythm, reggae and rock on “The Rock Star”. It was really fun. Again a wild ride delivered on stage with the next song, “Auditor’s Room”. They were having lots of fun on stage with many cool improvisations in good chemistry between each other.The best of funk fusion appeared next through the playful “Strange Feeling”. Fast paced, energic and dangerous, the song brought absolutely like a fun ride from start to finish. After “Where’s The Mosque”, the closing was even more manic, entitled “BAG’s theme”. It was totally a lightning speed composition. BAG Trio brought us on a journey into the different side of jazz, entering many layers of it. It was seductive, it was wild, it was stunning. What an experience to enjoy their music.

It  was a pleasure to see Agam Hamzah delivering his skill again. He is one of the amazing guitarist who never wants to be trapped up inside one genre. For him, the melody has to come first, no matter what the genre is. Latins, folk/country, classical, smooth jazz to the darkest side of jazz fusion can be brought perfectly by this versatile and modish guitarist. After his show with Donny Suhendra at Jazz Break Revival XII several months ago, it was great to have him again.

But this time he brought in a different nuance. Agam Hamzah performed together with the beautiful Tiwi Shakuhachi in a very lovely intimate bossa session. An amalgamation of Parahyangan valley‘s exoticism with the charm of jazz improvisations, that is Tiwi Shakuhachi’s musical persona. She’s a great piano and accordion player who can also sing very well. Tonight she appeared with accordeon, accompanied by Agam Hamzah on acoustic guitar. Actually Tiwi was supposed to play with her group, but they couldn’t make it tonight. So they decided to play as an acoustic duet, and actually in my opinion it was just perfect. They both brought some magic on stage, turning it into a romatic bossa night. As the rain poured heavily outside, they warmed the audience with sweettunes. Tiwi hummed sweetly almost through all the songs, running up and down the melody. Her accordeon gave a taste of a tender Parisian romance, while Hamzah did his part tenderly on his guitar. The classic bossa “Tristeza” was the opening, followed by Maria Schneider’s composition called “Choro Dançado”. It was very beautiful, as the audiences were hypnotized with their performance. Love was  in the air. Series of songs were still brought intimately and romanticly such as “Magnificent Seven” and Djavan’s composition entitled “Jogral”. Tiwi and Agam then closed their session with the request from the audience, “The Girl From Ipanema”. What a lovely performance by these two outstanding musicians.

The next band to perform was G/E/T. From the moment G/E/T was established last year, we could clearly see that this very talented trio would do very well in our music scene. Tesla Manaf Effendi (guitar), Gallang Perdhana Dalimunthe (bass) and Edward Manurung (drums) are the personnels behind this group, and they keep on showing good progress, on skills, performance, harmony and creativity. For tonight, they brought all their own original compositions.

They kicked off their session right away with “Sekapur Sirih”. They continued with another heavy fusion entitled “Play Death”. Both were like the hardcore side of jazz, it was dark. It was like a showcase of skills with amazing compositions made by Tesla.  “Migrain” was the next song, followed by the cooling “Postpone” and closed with “Outside of the Bird Cage” which was delivered playfully, full with joy, just like looking at a bird that just found its freedom.

Bayu who finally came all the way from Jakarta joined his band, “B.L.A.V” and delivered two songs, “Sunny” and “Recordane”. It’s nice to have the unique keyboardist Bayu back on jazz stage. We kinda missed him since he decided to leave the jazz scene due to his work as once he stated a couple of months ago. With these two last songs, this month’s Jazz Break Revival reached the end.

Again, it was a very interesting night at Bumi Sangkuriang. It’s about time to deal with the educational side of jazz, and that’s what exactly happened on Jazz Break Revival February edition. We are blessed to have Ms Julie Spithill from Sydney Conservatorium of Music as the clinicians, sharing her knowledge to improve our quality in jazz. Thank you to Studio Music Melodia for this, also we extend our thanks to KlabJazz, Melinda Hospital and Bumi Sangkuriang for the spirit and courage to carry on. Another great night with success indeed. Can’t wait to see the concept next month!

See more pictures:

Reporter: Riandy Kurniawan, Adott Jumbo
Photographer:  Omar Arif Maulana

SPECIAL STUDENT PRICE IS ON THE WAY

 

The long-awaited Student Price for AXIS Jakarta International Java Jazz Festival 2010 is Coming Soon!

This year, for its sixth edition, AXIS Jakarta International Java Jazz Festival 2010 has a special offer presented in a special way for students who cannot wait to get their hands on the Festival’s tickets.  To jazz up the remarkable experience of ticket-purchasing, for this year’s edition of the Festival, a special mobile ticket box will begin circulating later this week, catering ONLY to students.

The mobile ticket box (easily noticeable due to its vibrants color and the signature Java Jazz Festival logo) will be available at select locations (universities, hang out places, Java Jazz on the Move venues) offering the special student prices and packages as follows:

** SPECIAL STUDENT PRICE (tax included)

- DAILY PASS: Rp 115,000

- DAILY PASS + SPECIAL SHOW:
•    DAILY PASS Friday (5 March 2010) + Special Show JOHN LEGEND (section C): IDR 300,000
•    DAILY PASS Saturday (6 March 2010) + Special Show TONI BRAXTON: IDR 230,000
•    DAILY PASS Saturday (6 March 2010) + Special Show THE MANHATTAN TRANSFER “THE CHICK COREA SONGBOOK“): IDR 199,000
•    DAILY PASS Sunday (7 March 2010) + Special Show KENNY “BABYFACE” EDMONDS: IDR 199,000

Terms & Condition:
1. MUST bring original STUDENT ID
2. Maximum purchase per 1 (one) Student ID are 4 (four) Tickets.
3. Purchase can only be done by holder of valid Student ID
4. The purchase of tickets with SPECIAL STUDENT PRICE can only be done via MOBILE TICKET BOX JAVA JAZZ FESTIVAL

Note this!
The first stop for the  Mobile Ticket Box Java Jazz Festival is the first venue of Java Jazz on the Move, Margo City Depok on 5 February 2010 (Look for it  at the Ozone Area Parking, starting 13.00).

For updates on location, keep yourself in the loop by checking out the official Java Jazz Festival website (www.javajazzfestival.com), Twitter (@JavaJazzFest, @JavaJazz2010), BNI Blackberry Application for AXIS Java Jazz Festival 2010 (http://jjf.7langit.com) and Facebook (Group: Java Jazz Festival).

JAVA JAZZ ON THE MOVE (JJOTM) IS COMING SOON!

As I mentioned above, we are happy to announce that finally Java Jazz On The Move is also coming soon at the end of THIS week! Prior to the big main world class event, AXIS Jakarta International Java Jazz Festival 2010 is ready to spread the jazz fever with a series of pre-event, known as Java Jazz On The Move (JJOTM)! This is the series presenting both popular Indonesian and international artists to spread the hype, sending the big news to jazz lovers in particular and music lovers in general to attend the main event on March 5,6,and 7, 2010.

Margo City, the home of Margo Friday Jazz Community will get the honor to be the opening of Java Jazz On The Move this Friday, February 5, 2010. The event will begin at 8:30 PM with Rafi & The Beat and Twentyfirst Night.

This year’s Java Jazz On The Move are planned to happen in 14 different venues all over Jakarta and around. And it’s made huge from the start. Here are the performers for Java Jazz On The Move:
Twentyfirst Night, Rafi & the Beat, Lala Suwages, Gugun Blues Shelter, DREW, Aditya, Beatbop Project feat. Riza Arshad & Indra Aziz, Notturno, Endah ‘n Rhesa, Andien, Ligro Trio feat. Orgil Horn Section, Sandhy Sondoro, Maliq & D’Essentials, Contra Indigo, Bandanaira, Tika & the Dissidents, Hendrik Meurkens Samba Jazz Quartet, Esqi:ef Syaharani & the Queenfireworks, Adonis Puentes

Check out the complete schedule and performers below (subject to change)

Schedule

Don’t forget to check more news about AXIS offers, BNI Buy 1 Get 2 and the early bird price lists for daily pass, 3 day pass and Special Show through this link

For more info, log on to Java Jazz Festival official website

Stay tune for more news of Java Jazz Festival 2010 here at Jazzuality.com!

Shanghai Blue 1920 & What’s New Jakarta is once again presenting you with a one of-a-kind event, organised to ensure you a memorable experience. To celebrate this Chinese New Year, we have decided to bring to you that what used to be forbidden and taboo. We decided to bring you the sound of old Shanghai combined with old swing jazz. Our home band Nita Aartsen Quatro, will provide the musical heat for your evening.

Don’t miss our Shanghai Night Party. There will be good food and wine, great music and dancing.

Saturday, 6 February 2010

08.30 pm onwards

Shanghai Jazz Band by Nita Aartsen Project

SPECIALS

Buy 2 Get 1 Free For Cocktails and Beer

Buy a bottle of wine, get complimentary Shanghai Tapas

DRESS CODE

Touch of Shanghai

3 Best Costumes get prizes!

The Night never ends at Shanghai Blue 1920 Jazz Club & Restaurant

RSVP : Hatina / Diana at +6221 3918690 or 0878 8169 6895

Jl. Kebon Sirih Rayan No.79, Central Jakarta

shanghai-blue@tuguhotels.com

www.tuguhotels.com

Crowded with fans, that was our first impression to Barcode Rooftop Cafe Kemang yesterday, January 31, 2010. People were piling up for entry on SKETSA’s  “Childhood’s Dream” album launching to get a glimpse of the cool concept of accoustic jazz. Mian Tiara started the night by singing four songs in a row, giving a great sense of smooth jazz ambience to filled up the audience’s mood at the cozy cafe in Barcode, Kemang. Mian Tiara also gave their sincere bless and praise for Sketsa whom finally launched their debut album. After a little break another great trio get into action, The Trees & The Wild. These three talented young man played another great 4 accoustic songs with their funny jokes around and great guitar arrangement able to made the audiences watched in awe for their fingering and guitar strumming. What more interesting was, The Trees & The Wild even gave a historical journey about Sketsa and how great they were. There’s no surprise if they finally stepped into the recording and we are sure they will climb the stairs of popularity in no time. Another praise and prayer for Sketsa came from their friends, creating an impression about how friendly Sketsa has always been, the personality that brings them into fame now.

Talking about Sketsa means talking about fulfilling the dreams, about the consistency, spirit, skill and the sound of beautiful guitars’ harmony. We praise their braveness to go boldly on such a crossover genres with their acoustic double guitars touch, rumbling in the genre that rarely taken by today’s musicians.   But with the strong concept, we can’t see any reason that they won’t achieve their childhood’s dreams. You’ll get the sense of 80’s style of fusion jazz, country, latin and many more, packed neatly inside their amazing style. It’s even cool to see how their finger danced all  over the fret. The group officially was established back in 2005, when it was still presented by the first formation, Gerald Situmorang and Adnand Adyasha. Unfortunately Adnand had to continue his study overseas and that forced him to quit the band. Luckily Dimas Wibisana filled up the position, and this is the formation now that’s ready to make more headlines to come.

After great opening and great chiky-chat from Mian Tiara and The Trees & The Wild, it was time for SKETSA to show what they got.  The Dinamic Duo took over the stage. Accompanied with Adrian Mahendra on electric bass, Hertri Nur Pamungkas on drums, Aldhan Prasatya on Keyboard and Baskoro Adhi on vocal,  the duo Gerald Situmorang and Dimas Wibisana`gave away a performance that was absolutely worth watching with their great guitar strumming. Open with “Horse Race” followed by “Greenfield”,  these two talented young man gave away a magnetic and cheerful also energetic mood to the audiences. We all stunned and hypnotized by their play.  After the great and stunning 2 opening beat by Sketsa they gave away their praise and appreciation also thanks to the audiences, that including their friends, for coming and supporting their musics. Then Sketsa continued on giving a great show by playing “Farm Time”, “Hop Hop”, “Into The Light” and many more.

After the show reached the end, people were still piling in to get a glimpse of Indonesian DEPAPEPE, the beat kept thumping and the night went deeper. Sketsa managed to get a great performance and showed that their album, Childhood’s Dream is definately a must buy album. So why Don’t hit the music store now and get Sketsa’s debut album – Childhood’s dream, with 10 great accoustic jazz music in it. Congratulation for Sketsa on the debut album, more power to you and we sincerely wish you the best of luck! It’s about time we have such cool alternative to color up our music scene, and we hope to see you in action for a very long time to come. So guys, if you’re into this cool double guitar music harmony across genres,  go get the album now for only IDR 35.000!

See more pictures:

Reporter and Photographer: Ata Michaella
Editor: Riandy Kurniawan

4Some Productions
in cooperation with
Balay Mindanaw Foundation Inc.

presents

“SITTI: IN LOVE WITH BOSSA”
A Pre-Valentine Benefit Concert
Live! @ The Grand Caprice Ballroom, Limketkai Center, Cagayan de Oro City

Saturday, February 6, 2010
7:30 in the evening

A pre- valentine concert to benefit Balay Mindanaw Foundation Inc., will be held on February 6, 2010 at the Grand Caprice, Limketkai Center, Cagayan de Oro. One week prior to Valentine’s Day, Cagayan De Oro will be captured with love and romance as the Philippines’ Bossa Nova Queen, Sitti Navarro, will perform in the concert entitled “Sitti: In Love With Bossa”.

The benefit concert is produced by Foursome Event Productions. The idea of the concert began when the whole country was shocked when 72 persons were killed in a massacre in Maguindanao causing fear and panic to the people. The producers immediately thought of something beneficial yet entertaining to help both police and army personnel in the region, thus, the idea to produce a benefit concert. “It is the best time for us, Filipinos, to contribute in restoring peace and order in Mindanao. Every single Filipino has his own share so everyone should make a move and participate”, say the producers.

Balay Mindanaw Foundation Inc. (BMFI) is a Mindanao-based and Mindanao-focused Philippine NGO. BMFI’s work and its people articulate a sense of fierce pride for Mindanao and a passion for transforming this poorest and most conflict-torn of the country’s regions into a “balay”, a true home for its peoples – Christians, Muslims and Lumads, indigenous peoples of Mindanao.

It is a non-stock, non-profit foundation primarily engaged in peace-building, promoting sustainable integrated area development, developing the mechanisms and technology for democratic participation of peoples and communities in local governance and facilitating agrarian reform implementation.

Sitti Navarro was chosen by the producers as the main performer of the event because she is one of the most popular singers of today and also the city’s favorite female singer. Sitti will once again mesmerize Cagayanons with her hit songs like Para Sa Akin, Hey Look at the Sun, Tattooed on My Mind, Kung Di Rin Lang Ikaw and many more. Also, fronting for Sitti is Cagayan De Oro’s hottest local band — Acoustic Genes. Part of the concert proceeds will go to the Balay Mindanaw Foundation Inc., for the sustainment of their “Op-Kors” or Operation Peace Course which aims to educate and reform both army and police officers in order to become peace advocates here in Mindanao.

So mark your calendar and bring your family, friends and loved ones and let us help in promoting peace and order in Mindanao as we catch “Sitti: In Love With Bossa”.

Tickets are at Php 1000, Php 800, Php 500 and Php 300 and are currently available at Dunkin’ Donuts outlets, Grand Caprice Ballroom, LIMKETKAI Center, The Site and Udang’s Restaurant.

For ticket inquiries and reservations you may call or text Mescy at 0932-4521771 or email mes_tex@yahoo.com.ph

Jazz Break Revival is coming again soon. Right after their 18th edition last month, the number that usually describes such level of maturity, here comes Jazz Break Revival XIX with something new in the program. If usually we only have concerts involving different bands, artists or musicians, this time the event goes also with workshop. We always believe the development of jazz won’t be enough only with the on-stage performances. We also need to think about the educational side, providing wide enough space for jazz lovers to learn more about jazz. To know jazz better, to distinguish jazz than any other genres known in the music world, to understand the philosophy or even to get familiar to the big happy jazz family. After all, to know is to love, right? So it’s great to start including the educational program inside the package, of course without throwing the entertaining side of jazz, when we are still in the early months of 2010.

KlabJazz, BP Bumi Sangkuriang and Melinda Hospital are proudly present: Jazz Break Revival XIX, February edition. Make sure to check the schedule carefully this month, because there will be a workshop before the stage performance, starting at 5 PM Western Indonesian Standard Time. The workshop entitled “Jazz Basics”, hosts by Ms Julie Spithill from University of Sydney Conservatorium of Music as a part of special collaboration with Studio Musik Melodia. For sure this will be beneficial for everyone who share the same love and passion to jazz.

About the performance side, we have heavy lineups this month. First of all, it’s great to know that Agam Hamzah will appear once again after his stunning performance with Donny Suhendra several months ago on Jazz Break Revival XII.   As how he once explained about his connection and unforgettable memories to the city of Bandung (check out the exclusive interview with Agam Hamzah and Donny Suhendra through this link) , I’m sure he is excited to perform once again for Bandung jazz lovers. Agam Hamzah is a versatile guitarist with complete ability to play in various genres. He knows how to pour out beautiful melodies from his finger touch on the guitar. And surely he will stun the audiences once again as he did last June. This time he will play along side with Tiwi Shakuhachi, who also makes her return to Jazz Break Revival stage. Chalk for Cheese and G/E/T will also be back again this month. There will be Bag Trio, consist of New Season’s drummer Aldhi Mahardika and Sketsa’s guitarist Gerald Situmorang. Also introducing the new project of Moh.Athar and Bayu Kristanto, B.l.a.v.

Save the date!

WORKSHOP “JAZZ BASICS”
host by: Ms Julie Spithill
accompanied by: Imelda Rosalin
Time: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM Western Indonesian Standard Time

Performances:

BAG Trio
Bramantyo Musyanif – electric bass
Aldhi Mahardhika – drums
Gerald Situmorang – electric guitar

B.L.A.V.
Bayu Kristanto – piano
Mohamad Athar – guitar
Septian Linanto – drums
Rahel Pradika Purba – vocals

CHALK FOR CHEESE
Trianzani Sulshi – vocals
Arif Baradja – drums
Iman Rahman – bass
Ferdy Apriady – alto saxophone
Martin Handy – guitar
Ferry Nurhayat – keyboard

G/E/T
Gallang Adimunthe – bass
Edward Manurung – drums
Tesla Manaf Effendi – guitar

and

TIWI SHAKUHACHI feat. AGAM HAMZAH
Tiwi Shakuhachi – accordeon & vocal
Agam Hamzah – guitar
Sheila Permatasaka – bass
Toni – vocals, saxophone

Date: Wednesday, February 03, 2009
Time: 07:00 PM – 11:00 PM Western Indonesian Standard Time

Location: Balai Pertemuan Bumi Sangkuriang
Jl. Ki Putih no. 12 Bandung, West Java, Indonesia

FREE OF CHARGE

Meet the dynamic duo named Sketsa. This is a stunning and highly creative group that fills the needs of a pure and clean acoustic guitar sound in Indonesian music scene. Sketsa’s journey was started in 2005 with a group named Acoustic PL and made their debut in PL FAIR Village, still with the first formation: Gerald Situmorang and Adnand Adyasha.

In 2006 the name changed into “Sketsa”. Adnand had to continue his study to Australia and decided to quit the band. Dimas Wibisana came in, and this is the solid formation that still steadily goes higher and better until today.

Together as a unit, they manage to keep their existance with continuous achievements. They have collaborated with Tohpati at PL Fair 2009 , also got their chance to perform at many prestiguous festivals, local and international, such as 31st and 32nd Jazz Goes to Campus (JGTC), Java Jazz Festival, Asean Jazz Festival, Etno Jazz and many more.

And now, their debut album is ready to launch. Using “Childhood’s Dream” as the title, it reflects the dreams they used to have since they were still a child, the kind of dreams that always stay with them through their maturity. “My biggest dream when I was still a little kid was to see people enjoying my works.” Dimas said. It’s never easy to fulfill a dream, but Sketsa has done it successfully.

Sketsa’s debut album “Childhood’s Dream” is supported by Adrian Mahendra on bass, Hertri Nur Pamungkas on drums, Mery Kasiman on keyboard, and produced by Yuka Dian Narendra Mangoenkoesoemo. 10 songs are available in this album with various arrangement. You will get the nuance of the 80’s style of fusion jazz, country, latin and many more. “Yes, we are playing instrumentally, but our music is easy listening. We hope the music lovers especially in Indonesia could dig it.” Gerald said. You’ll notice something new when you hear Sketsa. Often blending many kinds of genre in one enjoyable sound, their wide diversity of music taste surely helps them to reach wider segment of music listeners. It’s also great to notice that they appear in strong concept, filling up the music category that is rarely been taken in Indonesian music scene. Sketsa surely has a promising future.

The album will officially be launched this Sunday (January 31, 2010) at Barcode, La Codefine, Kemang, Jakarta. Sketsa would like to invite you all to their debut album launching. Let’s be there and celebrate it together with them, and experience the most beautiful side of the acoustic sound, Sketsa style!

SKETSA
“Childhood’s Dream” album launching

with special guests:
The Trees & The Wild
Mian Tiara

Date: Sunday, January 31, 2010
Time: 7 PM – Onwards
Location: Barcode, La Codefine
Jl. Kemang Raya no 8, Rooftop Floor

FREE ENTRY

CP: Buron (+ 62 818 0800 5819)

SKETSA ARE:
Gerald Situmorang (acoustic guitar)
Dimas Wibisana (acoustic guitar)

with :

Adrian Mahendra (Electric Bass)
Hertri Nur Pamungkas (Drums)
Aldhan Prasatya (Keyboards)
Baskoro Adhi Juwono (Vocal)

For more info, log on to Sketsa’s official myspace