Benji B’s visit to Jakarta was what it needed to be, a refreshing introspect into one man’s love for music. Having spent a few days with Benji B leading up to his first live performance in Jakarta, I was privileged to hear the stories of a man who fell in love with music at a young age and who dedicated the rest of his life to sharing it with other people.

Having spent the last 3 years or so listening to Benji’s show ‘Deviation’ on BBC radio 1 and watching his lectures as a part of the Red Bull Music academy I was excited for my first live experience. At Malt on the 21st of February 2011 I was able to hear those stories unfold through music as if narrating a script song by song.

During a press conference held earlier in the day, Benji indicated the importance of selection. “I would rather hear a technically bad DJ play an amazing selection of songs than a dj who beat matched perfectly but failed to play an inspiring set.” He also expressed his love for Indonesian music citing the soul and spiritually he felt when listening to it which developed into him learning the Gamelan from age 7 through to his early 20’s.

If music and dance is a product of spirituality then I definitely felt like i was in the presence of a spirit. Most likely an English one as the sounds of London exploded through the sound system in true Dub fashion. “I am London, London taught me what I know about music and it’s only right that I represent London everywhere I go.” The unforgiving bass lines of Dub, Grime and Garage transitioned into soul funk and hip hop. I really didn’t expect Benji to transition with “Are you that somebody” by Aaliyah and Timbaland but it came so easy as if Timbaland himself had been unknowingly producing dub. Neither did I expect to dance to Drake, but good music is good music and when the music instructs you to dance … you dance.

As it unfolded I watched the crowd absorb the music like a hardened sponge. Each person thirsty for more.Each track gathered anticipation, not knowing where Benji was taking us but enjoying every minute of the ride. At times I could only stand and smile as the sounds of Erykah, Minnie, Dilla and generations of great soul artists filled my heart. For a good 30 minutes of his encore I even felt as if Benji was playing a love story for a certain special someone in the audience. Music filled the room and as the herb fills my lungs, within this crazy city I was at peace.

Much props goes out to the kids at Good News radio, The Company, 24:7 and the Melting Pod for having the courage and vision to put on such a captivating night. Leno, Milspex and Ebby you represented local talent to the fullest. Malt as a venue is such a refreshing change to the typical Jakarta nightlife spots. The warmth and character of this venue was the perfect compliment to the music. A definate find in a city renowned for its excess and tackiness at times. With continuted support and dedication,  I’m excited to see the growth and diversification of the music community and this exciting new phase of art and life in Jakarta.

Words by Unqlriq.

Photos by Esther Tetris.

Rock It!

Tweet