Once again Bali’s most prestigious live music stages were made more colorful by the visit of one of the unique faces of Indonesia’s bands based in the metropolitan of Jakarta. Meet Kunokini; a band which combines the traditional sounds derived from places from all over Indonesia, added with some touch of traditional music instruments from other countries, nicely mixed with contemporary music .

Kunokini has this wonderful mission of spreading the message of nationalism through their creations. Their music plays a role of re-introducing some musical factors of the Indonesian heritage to the younger generation who are evidently not that much in touch with the traditional music, as today’s pop culture is what they are most exposed to these days. Their message has been well-received and they have a wide audience who simply love this blend that they call “Ethnic Mystical Experimental”.

The name of this band is pretty catchy, especially when you speak Bahasa Indonesia! On the literal level, Kuno means old-fashioned, antique and to some would even strike as ancient. While on the contrary, Kini means today or nowadays. This name carries the concept and philosophy of their music that combines a wonderful harmony of the traditional and modern sounds in a successful balance.

Formed in 2003, it has been a while now that this band has been around, offering a fresh bold genre in presenting traditional art and culture in their own particular way, repackaged in a more popular set up, making it easily acceptable for a wider music audience in this country. Given the qualities and charisma this kind of blend carries, along their way through their career, Kunokini has become one of the favorite acts on many well-respected art festivals within the country as well as abroad. For example, they have successfully made their name and fan base in Australia.

We are happy to have caught them at one of their gigs during their tour on the island, at the friendly space of Antida Soundgarden. We’re super excited to have that footage ready to share with you all, but as that’s going to take a little time, you can check out their music on our radio all week long at 7 am, 12 am, 7 pm and midnight! And also check out their favorite videos as they shared with us! Enjoy!