Give me one young person, and I will shake the world. Give me a few young musicians, and I will paint mountains, rivers, valleys, and seas in vibrant hues.
This poetic line aptly describes the essence of Pohon Tua Creatorium (PTC), a collective that doesn’t aim for global domination but instead focuses on something more profound: coloring the Indonesian music scene with unmatched brilliance and innovation. PTC is not merely a label; it’s a movement, a sanctuary for creativity led by Dadang SH Pranoto (Pohon Tua), with the aid of sound engineer Cipta Gunawan (Gun), artist development mentor Ira, and the ever-reliable Bintang Riyadi, who ensures every cable is perfectly coiled. Together, they are the backbone of a creative powerhouse that thrives even in adversity.
In the throes of a global pandemic, as the music industry faced a near-standstill, PTC defied the odds. On September 12, 2020, they orchestrated a groundbreaking showcase at Rumah Sanur, Bali. It wasn’t just a performance; it was a declaration of resilience and artistic ambition. Four emerging acts from PTC’s roster took the stage, each with unique musical identities:
- Manja: With their uplifting anthem “Rise”, this indie-pop trio turned the spotlight on hope and determination.
- Soulfood: Their soulful track “Ain’t No Money It’s Ok” became a reflection of endurance in tough times.
- Soul & Kith: The poignant “Sorrow” captured the depths of human emotion in a stunning music video.
- Truedy Duality: The duo’s art-punk masterpiece “A Mad Deus Most Art” pushed boundaries with its bold lyric video.
This showcase wasn’t just a display of talent; it was a kaleidoscope of genres, from atmospheric rock and Southern Gothic to Motown-inspired grooves and baroque art-punk. It screamed a bold message: Bali’s music scene is not monochromatic. The island offers more than punk rock anthems from Superman Is Dead, the grunge rawness of Navicula, or the rockabilly swagger of The Hydrant. PTC is expanding Bali’s sonic palette, proving there’s room for experimentation and diversity.
Creating Amidst Chaos
In an era where the music industry seemed paralyzed by the pandemic, PTC chose to embrace creativity. Why launch new music when the market is at its weakest? Why not wait for the storm to pass? Pohon Tua has a firm answer:
“Every artist has their own orientation. For me, creativity should never falter, whether the industry is thriving or not. These are young, emerging bands stepping into the industry at one of its lowest points. But isn’t an artist supposed to create, regardless of the circumstances?”
With his trademark calm yet commanding presence, Pohon Tua continued, “I’m certain they’ll be more prepared than anyone else when the pandemic is over. Waiting is uncertain. Creating is absolute. Money and fame are bonuses. The priority should be to avoid contributing to the already cluttered state of the industry.”
This mindset is the driving force behind PTC’s ethos. While others paused, PTC forged ahead, releasing tracks that resonated deeply with listeners. These weren’t just songs; they were lifelines, reminders that music has the power to heal and inspire even during the darkest times.
A Collective of Creative Brilliance
The September 2020 showcase at Rumah Sanur was more than just a concert. It was a celebration of PTC’s vision—a community of artists pushing boundaries and challenging norms. The performances were intimate yet powerful, leaving the audience both entertained and deeply moved.
Manja’s “Rise” became an anthem of resilience, a rallying cry for those seeking strength in uncertain times. The band’s infectious energy and heartfelt lyrics struck a chord with everyone present.
Soulfood, true to their name, delivered a soulful performance of “Ain’t No Money It’s Ok”. The track served as a poignant reminder that fulfillment isn’t tied to material wealth but to passion and perseverance.
Soul & Kith brought a cinematic edge with their music video for “Sorrow”. Its haunting visuals and emotional depth highlighted the duo’s ability to merge sound and storytelling seamlessly.
Finally, Truedy Duality shattered conventions with their art-punk opus “A Mad Deus Most Art”. The track’s lyrical complexity and rebellious spirit showcased PTC’s commitment to nurturing artists who dare to be different.
Bali’s Vibrant Musical Mosaic
Through these acts, PTC sent a clear message: Bali’s music scene is evolving. The island’s artistic identity is no longer confined to its iconic punk, grunge, or rockabilly roots. Instead, it’s blossoming into a vibrant mosaic of sounds and styles.
PTC’s roster exemplifies this diversity. From atmospheric rock to Southern Gothic and Motown-inspired melodies, the collective’s genre-defying approach is a testament to Bali’s untapped creative potential. It’s a bold declaration that the island’s music scene is as dynamic and multifaceted as its cultural heritage.
Defying the Pandemic’s Grip
For PTC, the pandemic wasn’t an obstacle—it was an opportunity. By choosing to create rather than wait, the collective turned adversity into an incubator for innovation. Pohon Tua’s leadership was instrumental in this transformation. His belief that “creation is absolute” became a rallying cry for the artists under his wing.
The result? A string of releases that not only defied the industry’s slump but also set new benchmarks for artistic excellence. These weren’t just songs; they were testaments to the resilience of Bali’s creative community.
Looking Ahead
As PTC continues to grow, its impact on the Indonesian music scene becomes increasingly evident. With a commitment to nurturing young talent and pushing creative boundaries, the collective is shaping the future of Bali’s music industry.
Future projects promise even greater experimentation, with collaborations spanning genres and geographies. Whether it’s exploring new sounds or amplifying emerging voices, PTC remains steadfast in its mission to illuminate the world with music.
Conclusion: Pohon Tua Creatorium’s Legacy
In an industry often constrained by commercial pressures, Pohon Tua Creatorium stands as a beacon of hope. Its defiance of the pandemic’s grip and unwavering commitment to creativity have set it apart as a true innovator.
Under the guidance of Pohon Tua, PTC has transformed challenges into opportunities, proving that art thrives even in adversity. By championing young artists and embracing diversity, the collective is not only enriching Bali’s music scene but also inspiring a new generation of creators.
As the pandemic fades and the world reawakens, one thing is certain: Pohon Tua Creatorium will continue to shine, illuminating the path forward for Indonesian music.