In music the sound is a representation of the spirit of the times and that time is always contained in rhythm. The current music style of Papuan children can be said to be a fusion of Hip-hop and reggae. Two ‘Black Atlantic’ music genres that historically have a strong affinity, are now spreading to Asia and the Pacific. The ‘default’ musical aesthetic of Papuan children seems to be tethered to reggae even though Hip-hop is currently very dominant there. 

At least Kultur sees the fusion manifested through the figure of Onesias Chelvox Urbinas, or better known by the moniker Epo D’Fenomeno. Although he is a Rap (Hip-Hop) musician and producer, Epo occasionally makes songs with a touch of reggae. One of the latest is a single titled ‘Tabawa deng waktu’ in Papuan dialect which means ‘carried away with time.’ This mellow romantic love song is so immersive with a soft reggae rhythm balanced with the assertiveness of a powerful baritone vocal character in the style of ‘rude bway.’ According to Epo, who does not discriminate against music genres, reggae is one of the most appropriate genres to channel all forms of expression both sad and happy. Through this particular love song, he wants to answer all forms of criticism constructively and creatively through a masterpiece that is liked by many people and becomes phenomenal just like his name.

The single, which is available on digital music stores and premiered on YouTube on October 19, was produced by Epo under his own record label ‘Rum Fararur.‘ As if it were their own playground, the three talents who also appear here, Omcon (Baritone Jimmy Waramori), D’Ari (Ari Ohee) and Gabby Nahusona are an integral part of this indie production house and have a significant role in the creative process to the production.

In addition to sound, visuals that showcase the place also play an important role that is embedded in the rhythms that make up the music. Reggae is indeed synonymous with island vibes. This can be seen in Ivan58′s Music Video which glorifies the beautiful and enchanting coastal scenery and waves of Skouw Yambe beach, Muara Tami, Papua. Graceful and full of quality like the talents in this work. What a special and harmonious blend.

(Yedi)