A new vinyl pressing plant was recently opened in West Jakarta. Photo by PHR
The Indonesian music scene is currently experiencing a vibrant period of experimentation, where musicians are blending vernacular Indonesian music traditions with elements from diverse global influences and historical periods. This fusion has led to the emergence of groundbreaking acts like Senyawa, who have successfully captured international attention.
While the creative landscape pushes forward, however, there’s a simultaneous return to older technology in music distribution, particularly the resurgence of vinyl recording. This vinyl revival, mirroring a global trend, has taken root in Indonesia. Taufiq Rahman, editor-in-chief of Jakarta Post as well as the founder of Elevation Records, is at the forefront of this. He and his business partners have now established the country’s sole vinyl pressing factory, marking a significant milestone in Indonesia’s contemporary music industry.
In this week’s episode, Tito Ambyo chats with Taufiq Rahman to discuss the fall and rise of vinyl records in Indonesia, why “Badai Pasti Berlalu” is one of Indonesia’s finest pop productions and how the artistry of Rhoma Irama extends beyond dangdut music.
In 2024, the Talking Indonesia podcast is co-hosted by Tito Ambyo from RMIT, Dr Jemma Purdey from the Australia-Indonesia Centre, Dr Elisabeth Kramer from the University of New South Wales and Dr Jacqui Baker from Murdoch University.
Look out for a new Talking Indonesia podcast every fortnight. Catch up on previous episodes here, subscribe via Apple Podcasts or listen via your favourite podcasting app.
