Music is free; at least it is according to Bottlesmoker.

The power of internet has really changed the world, including how the word about good music gets out. And these smart lads really took advantage of this phenomenon. Bottlesmoker are Angkuy and Nobie. The duo started the band back in 2005 on their own personal computer located on each member's bedroom.

Starting music in their own bedroom is the typical first phase of many electronic acts around the world. It's a clich* story that always leads to a wonderful fairy tale.

Bottlesmoker admitted that they're heavily influenced by popular acts in the electronic scene such as I am Robot and Proud and Tungg.

Plus, there's one significant addition to their attitude as an artist: giving away their all their songs to people free of charge.

"We took part in the Friday I'm in Loops compilation back in 2005. After that we gave away our songs from one to another computer in digital format or we invited people to send a SASE *self-addressed stamped envelope* to us. We whacked the songs and then send it back to them," Angkuy says.

They also put their records on several netlabels all around the world. A netlabel practically is a recording label based on the internet that gives away releases for free.

Digitally, their albums have been released in Russia, Spain, and of course Indonesia. In addition to that, they also have contributed to several compilations released by labels from Germany and the People's Republic of China.

"Our music has to be free. We never expect to earn a lot from our music. We just wanted to write songs we like. We also never wanted Bottlesmoker to be our way of making a living. Probably we're fools. But we enjoy each part of it," Angkuy adds.

Then there's another irony. When people start to heat up the tension between Indonesia and Malaysia in the political field, these lads do the opposite.

"We just finished our Malaysian tour, played six times in Kuala Lumpur, Petaling Jaya, and Ipoh. Those gigs were so fun," Angkuy closed the talks.

You can get to know Bottlesmoker better by downloading their albums at www.shiningrecords.com, while the band can be reached at www.twitter.com/bottlesmoker.

- Felix Dass

At a Glimpse is all about the local music scene. Give us a shout at sundayglimpse@gmail.com. Also, become our friend at www. facebook.com/sundayglimpse and follow us at twitter.com/sundayglimpse.

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