Performed by Sanggar Seni Suda Wirad, Banjar Pipitan, Desa Canggu, Badung during July 2023 in Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia as a winner of regional contests by a process in Balinese villages, choosing between mentors, art teachers and cultural leaders in a process of curation, this is the live performance at the Festival.
It captures the essence of Bali's traditional masked dance performances, known as "topeng." "Topeng Bondress" is a harmonious collection that not only celebrates the diversity of these captivating performances but also invites listeners to immerse themselves in the vibrant rhythms and evocative tunes that have been passed down through generations.
"Topeng Bondress" introduces the lively and dynamic character Bondress, a figure marked by humor and mischief. The accompanying music mirrors this persona, featuring upbeat rhythms and playful melodies, creating an atmosphere of joy and celebration.
In contrast, "Topeng Keras" embodies strength, power, and resilience. The character portrayed in this category is often a heroic or noble figure, symbolizing courage and determination. The music accompanying Topeng Keras is characterized by bold and commanding tones, reflecting the intensity of the character's persona. This category provides a captivating exploration of the more dramatic and heroic aspects of Balinese culture, emphasizing the dynamic range of emotions expressed through the art of traditional dance.
"Topeng Tua" pays homage to elderly characters, portraying wisdom, experience, and the passage of time. The dance and music associated with Topeng Tua are characterized by graceful movements and melodic tunes that evoke a sense of nostalgia and reflection. The storytelling aspect of Topeng Tua often delves into the wisdom and life lessons of the elderly, offering a unique cultural perspective. The music for Topeng Tua tends to be more subdued and contemplative, providing a serene and contemplative atmosphere that beautifully captures the essence of aging gracefully.
"Topeng Bondress" not only showcases the virtuosity of the performers but also presents a comprehensive exploration of the multifaceted nature of Balinese traditional dance.
credits
releases May 4, 2024
This is a documentary process of recording Balinese Traditional Gamelan music, started in the year 2020.
Traditions have changed over time, but ancient musical compositions are adapted to nowadays life.
Agustín Oscar Rissotti, an Argentinian student of the University ISI Denpasar (Bali), developed an idea to join as many rehearsals, ensembles and religious ceremonies as possible with small microphones and recording equipment, to document the authentique "Bali Gamelan Sound".
In Bali, most live performances are meant to be performed for the Gods. There is no egoistic purpose in this performances, but to admire the beauty of this world through the eyes of Hindu Balinese religion.
As for his ears, this is "The authentique Bali Sound", full of conversations around, people passing by, laughs, music of different performances played together (as it is meant to be in several Balinese Hindu ceremonies where -more than 1- ensembles are playing music very close to each other -at the same time-), background noises, sounds of coffee cups and arak shoots (traditional homemade alcohol beverage), breath of cigarettes, animals hollowing around, hundreds of motorbikes passing by, and even mother nature earthquakes.
With all my respect, this is the vision of a South Latin American guy who ended up studying Balinese Culture and living in the Island before, during and after the pandemic.
I hope this can translate you to the world I am living in.
Thankyou, I hope you will enjoy this music.
Astungkara, Matur suksema.
A special mention and gratitude for I Wayan Sweca, for inviting me to this concert.
All the economic contributions made to this project are spent in developing the Balinese Culture and Artists.
supported by 8 fans who also own “Topeng Bondress”
A refreshing detour and next level delve from this artist, into beat sculpting and sound design that both massages the ears and holds attention; a deep space to get lost in!
Loved it. so_nam
supported by 7 fans who also own “Topeng Bondress”
I love it because it is healing. Not on the first listen nor the second. On loop for half a day. Then the healing begins. My ears and soul needed this. So, thanks. artistreader