BANDUNG - Barry Likumahuwa & The Rhythm Service opened the first day of the 2026 Gedebage Jazz Festival International which took place at the Summarecon Mall Bandung on Saturday, June 27.
Appearing on the main stage of Sawarga Courtyard, Barry et al showed how dynamic and diverse jazz music is in Indonesia.
After performing several numbers in front of thousands of spectators, Barry invited the Saung Angklung Udjo music group to the stage to collaborate.
"I want to feat with a special group. We've been collaborating for a long time. Clap for Saung Angklung Udjo," said Barry, greeted with applause from the audience.
Then Barry revealed how his introduction to the Bandung-based music group had changed his view of music.
More than a decade ago, the 43-year-old bass player felt that Indonesian identity in his music was very minimal.
"Before, I think my music was too western, yes, like Miles Davis, Charlie Parker, or Herbie Hancock, and all sorts. I realized that my music was not Indonesian," said Barry.
"Finally I thought of making a song that has Indonesian nuances, and the first sound that came to my head, yes, the sound of the angklung," he continued.
Barry also revealed his admiration for musicians from Saung Angklung Udjo in exploring music.
"When I met them, at that time we played together with Dwiki Dharmawan too, I just knew that the angklung could also play solo," he said.
Not stopping there, before getting off the stage, Barry invited the audience, which was dominated by the people of Bandung, to enjoy music from East Indonesia.
He chose the viral song "Tabola Bale" to be performed as the closing act.
"Recently, the song East Indonesia is trending again, and I as a person from the east feel proud," said Barry.
In addition to Barry Likumahuwa & The Rhythm Service and Saung Angklung Udjo, the main stage of the first day of the Gedebage Jazz Festival International 2026 also featured Andrea Cui and Julian Chan ft. KLCBS Project, Syaharani ft. Bandung Jazz Orchestra, Indra Lesmana Sydney Reunion, and Dewa 19 ft. Virzha.
The Gedebage Jazz Festival International 2026 is still ongoing until today. The main stage will feature B.A.E, Takahiro Miyazaki, Krakatau, Erwin Gutawa tribute to January Christy, Jazzbois, to Maliq & D'Essentials.
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