Voice of Baceprot, the trailblazing Indonesian metal band, is gearing up for their groundbreaking performance at the renowned Glastonbury Festival in the United Kingdom. Comprised of vocalist and guitarist Firda "Marsya" Kurnia, drummer Euis "Siti" Aisyah, and bassist Widi Rahmawati, the trio hails from Garut Regency in West Java, Indonesia, and has captured international attention with their unique blend of metal music infused with messages of empowerment and social justice.
The band's journey to Glastonbury began when they joined a local theater group in their conservative hometown in 2014. Discovered their passion for music after initially struggling with acting, they found inspiration from bands like Red Hot Chili Peppers and System of a Down, which led them to explore the metal genre. Despite having no prior exposure to metal, they quickly honed their skills and began performing at local events, gaining popularity through social media.
In 2018, Voice of Baceprot released their debut single "School Revolution," a song that resonated deeply with Indonesia's youth during widespread student protests in 2019. Known for their multilingual lyrics in English, Indonesian, and Sundanese, the band addresses themes such as female empowerment and environmental activism, reflecting issues close to their hearts and garnering a loyal following both locally and internationally.
Their invitation to Glastonbury, received unexpectedly via email in March, marked a monumental achievement for the band. Marsya described it as fulfilling their "biggest dream," highlighting the band's rapid ascent from local performances to a global stage. However, amidst their excitement, practical concerns about England's notorious weather and unfamiliar cuisine weigh on their minds.
"We have heard that it rains a lot in England and, even when it is not raining, it is always drizzling," expressed Siti, reflecting on their preparations for the festival. Concerns about adjusting to the cuisine further underscore their journey from a conservative Indonesian region to one of the world's largest music festivals.
Indonesia, a country with a flourishing heavy metal scene, has embraced Voice of Baceprot as symbols of youthful rebellion and artistic expression. Their music, which blends traditional Sundanese influences with powerful metal riffs, has resonated beyond cultural boundaries, drawing attention from music enthusiasts and social activists alike.
President Joko Widodo's own affinity for metal music has underscored Indonesia's growing appreciation for the genre, positioning Voice of Baceprot as ambassadors of Indonesian metal on the global stage. Their previous performances at international festivals like Germany's Wacken Open Air have cemented their reputation as formidable performers with a message.
As they prepare to captivate audiences at Glastonbury, Voice of Baceprot remains committed to their roots and the causes they champion. Their journey from humble beginnings to international acclaim underscores not only their musical talent but also their role in challenging societal norms and advocating for change through their electrifying performances and poignant lyrics.
