Combining Ethnic To Progressive, Keubitbit Band From Aceh Steals Attention In Bulgaria

Keubitbit (Doc. Ist)

JAKARTA - Indonesia should be proud to have a variety of distinctive cultures and music. One of these unique reflections can be found in the band from Aceh, Keubitbit.

On August 2, they had the opportunity to appear at the International Jazz Festival 'Dr. Emil Iliev' in Borokets, Sofia, Bulgaria.

Formed in 2014 with the spirit and nuances of coastal music, this band was strengthened by Safrullah/Aloel (leader, music producer/arranger, bass), Indra Fahmi Hakim (drums), Raden Trio Ananda Bagus Prakoso (saksofon), Teuku Hariansyah/Apoen (Rapai & gendrang percussion),menda Imawan Wibisono (piano/keyboard), Hijruddin Marlin/Din (guitar), Fahmi Arabi (lead vocal).

Not only carrying the sound of Acehnese ethnicity, this group has packed the strains of its tone, proceeds with modern music, jazz, to be progressive to date. They also won the Best World Music Production Work nomination at the 2020 Indonesian Music Awards (AMI) at Jakarta some time ago, through a song called Saban Sabee.

We have received an invitation since 5 months ago. But over time, with financial conditions that are not very supportive, it took a very long time until we were able to apply for a visa. Keubitbit only submitted the visa exactly 1 week before Bang's departure, and finished right on July 30, where that night we immediately bought a flight ticket," said Aloel in a written broadcast.

A long journey by route from Jakarta - Singapore - Dubai - Istanbul. Then from Istanbul, they dared to rent a mini van. Continuing the road journey which took 10 hours to get to Borovets. They arrived in Borovets on July 1 at 05.00 am local time.

"What's interesting is that at the press conference session, they asked a lot about Indonesia, they were curious about Indonesian culture, and at that time many were attended by major Bulgarian media, who did take the time to ask questions," Aloel explained.

Their composition, titled Raja Taki, was also included in the list of the seventh songs they performed that night in Borovets. A total of 9 songs they performed. According to Aloel, three opening songs entitled Peumulia Jamee, Hembala, and Sep Sep Hansep began to show their energy. The audience is getting warmer, more enthusiastic, and energetic until the end of Keubitbit's 60-minute appearance.

"Hearing King Taki echoing on the hill of Borovets, making the audience's enthusiastic applause with King Taki. After the gig, we went up to eat at one of the restaurants that the committee had provided. As we walked over the restaurant, the applause continued until we sat at our table, even one of the personnel, there were those who cried because they were moved, "Aloel's story.

Keubitbit's works contain many elements of social, cultural and problems from various aspects. The uniqueness of Keubitbit itself is a unique rhythm of Rapa'i & gendrang percussion. Melodies also have the nuances of middle eastern music. The most special thing is the touch of fast singing techniques using rhythmic music which makes Keubit's music a strong character.