SPILL LIVE REVIEW: VOICE OF BACEPROT (VOB) w/ MUDRAT @ THE CROXTON, MELBOURNE (AU)

VOICE OF BACEPROT (VOB) w/ MUDRAT

@ THE CROXTON, MELBOURNE (AU)

OCTOBER 26, 2024

Voice of Baceprot (VOB), Indonesia’s trailblazing all-female metal band, has taken Australia by storm with its electrifying debut tour. Their music, a powerful blend of heavy metal and cultural defiance, resonates with a message of empowerment and breaking free from stereotypes. Originating from a small town in West Java, these talented musicians have captured the hearts of fans across continents. Their performances are not just concerts but a celebration of diversity and strength, leaving audiences in awe of their signature metal sound that’s as ‘noisy’ as it is inspiring. With each strum, beat, and lyric, VOB is not just playing music but making history and shouting out loud for all to hear. Their journey from Singajaya to the international stage is a testament to their fierce talent and the universal language of music that transcends borders.

Opening with MUDRAT, described as a blend of punk, metal, and hip-hop influences with booming vocals, poetically and politically motivated, MUDRAT is an intimating force. Captured by his intensity immediately, I am struck by his immense talent and bravery. I got Rage Against the Machine vibes during this set, particularly in how MUDRAT dominates the stage. I moved to tears with “Face To Face”, a brilliant young talent. Tonight will be a fever dream, and although I have no solid political agenda, I think I may by the end of the night.

The world of metal music is vast and varied, with bands like VOB carving out their unique niche. Their approach to metal is not just about the heavy beats; it’s a nuanced symphony of sounds that captivates the listener. Widi Rahmawati’s bass technique stands out, offering a complexity that fans of Sick Puppies might find familiar and refreshing. The inclusion of eerie, childlike laughter adds depth to their music, creating an intriguing and slightly disturbing atmosphere. Firda Marsya Kurnia commands the stage with a presence as powerful as her vocals, her guitar work weaving seamlessly with Rahmawati’s bass lines. This dedication to their craft shines through in their performances, mesmerising audiences with their hypnotic rhythms and the raw energy they bring to every show. VOB’s signature sound is a testament to the innovative spirit of metal music, proving that the genre can be both intense and intricately crafted.

Their music has a solid feminist rhetoric, and what’s remarkable is the pride in their faith, which, hopefully, acts as a catalyst to break stereotypes. How excellent for a bunch of 20-year-olds to have it so figured out. And to be honest, it gets my feminist heart pumping to see such an energetic, youthful trio adorning their hijabs with pride. Good for them.

Both performers were equally impressive. The angst and pure emotion from MUDRAT is simply devastating, and if you’re not moved, you have no soul. VOB’s power is in their performance, and it is inspiring. I’d surmise there is much more in store for these women. Overall, it is an inspirational show, pure entertainment, and a joy to watch, not to be missed.

(Photography by Victoria Love-Rainbow)

Voice Of Baceprot (VOB) Photos

MUDRAT Photos

Artist Links

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