Question. How is it that a music called “punk”, which started in the 70’s with a bunch of drunken spiked-haired individuals, swearing (not singing) amongst furious guitar and drums, became so famous?

Another question. Why is it that this kind of chaotic loud music that constantly provokes social chaos and disorders in the lyrics became legendary?

The answer lays in its honesty. The honesty of how things aren’t always beautiful out there in the world we live in. What we see in the media as entertainment is only a mere fantasy that sells dreams with a Barbie doll image. What punk is all about is the contrary.

And what can be as honest as punk music? Ever since bands like The Sex Pistols mocked their own queen, EMI records, legendary bands like the Rolling Stones and swaggering ideas of anarchy back in the 70’s, the honesty of punkdom will never ever be questioned.

Nowadays I realize how things have change. Punk is getting more glamorous; instead of trashing small bars after gigs and smashing their heads on self-destruction, frustration and od like punks of my time, punk musicians of today can equally stand with rock, and even pop stars. They came out of the gutter to join the glam life of today’s youth culture, and I proudly witnessed it last Friday night, at the Hard Rock Café.

Superman Is Dead or SID’s (nice acronym) stood proud and tall with the launch of their 5th album “The Hangover Decade”. Punk music enthusiasts from all over the island gathered to salute this veteran band that started the punk lifestyle since perhaps a (hangover) decade ago in this tranquil island. The launching of the album began after Navicula, another Bali band that made it to the majors earlier this year, signing a contract with Sony Records.
How about a happy, clean, anti-violent punk music feast courtesy of Superman Is Dead? Why the hell not. The spirit of the jolly punk is still there, fans and friends of SID gather to do the ritual body slams and pogo dance as the happy, catchy riffs combined with high energy of the beat together with easy but critical lyrics flow thru the night with beer flying all over the place. Yee ha! The only set back of the night is actually seeing Melanie Subono trying to sing punk. With all due respect girl, what’s with the scream (actually, a screech) at the end of the song? Really sounded like someone had cut her throat or something. The swearing she did back to back with the singer is quite cool though.

The entire gig felt like your average punk scene, but with taste. After all, I think it’s about time for SID to enjoy star treatment, and get the recognition they deserve. Since they joined Sony Music Indonesia on the 4th and now, the 5th album, things will never be the same again to these local boys and punk in general. Cheers to SID means cheers to the new age punk, so… cheers people cheers! /MK

This article is dedicated to the late Marcel, member of Youth Offender Punk Community – Jakarta, died of overdose in 1996. He was a lovely loyal friend to all and a true punk devotee. May your spirit rest in peace.