Voice of Baceprot, a trailblazing metal band from Indonesia, is about to take one of the biggest stages in the world. The trio, composed of bassist Widi Rahmawati, 23, vocalist and guitarist Firda Marsya Kurnia, 24, and drummer Euis Siti Aisyah, 24, will be the first Indonesians to perform at the renowned Glastonbury Festival in England this Friday. Sharing the spotlight with global icons like Coldplay and Shania Twain, the band is both excited and anxious.
Originating from the small village of Garut in West Java, Voice of Baceprot, which translates to “noise,” has gained international recognition for their high-energy performances and thought-provoking lyrics. Their music has earned praise from notable figures, including former Rage Against the Machine guitarist Tom Morello. They aim to challenge stereotypes about Muslim women, proving that they can be both powerful and rebellious while embracing their faith.
In Indonesia, the world’s largest Muslim-majority nation with 90% of its 270 million people practicing Islam, the band confronts misconceptions that Muslim women are demure or that Muslims are violent militants. Their lyrics often tackle themes of female empowerment and environmental issues, reflecting their commitment to social causes.
The band members met at an Islamic school and formed Voice of Baceprot in 2014. Their passion for metal music was ignited by the American band System of a Down’s album “Toxicity,” which they discovered on their school guidance counselor’s computer. This encounter fueled their desire to create their own music, despite facing significant societal and familial opposition.
The band has faced numerous challenges, including stigmas associated with metal music in their conservative village, where it is often seen as satanic and unsuitable for women, especially those wearing hijabs. Marsya even faced pressure from her family to undergo an Islamic healing ritual to “cure” her love for metal. Overseas, they have also encountered prejudice, with audience members in the U.S. once labeling them as militants.
Despite these obstacles, Voice of Baceprot remains undeterred. Following their historic performance at Glastonbury, they plan to work on a new album, including a song titled “Mighty Island,” which addresses corruption in Indonesia. They also aspire to empower aspiring musicians in their home community, fostering a supportive environment for future artists.
Marsya, Widi, and Euis are not just making music; they are breaking barriers and reshaping perceptions, both in Indonesia and globally. Their journey from a small village to one of the world’s largest music festivals is a testament to their resilience and passion.
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