((Auman)): Courtesy of ((Auman))

Before the emergence of rock band ((Auman)), Palembang, South Sumatra, hardly appeared on the radar of most Indonesian rock music fans. The provincial capital was perhaps better known for its soccer team, Sriwijaya FC, which won the Indonesian league last season.

But with the recent release of its debut album, Suar Marabahaya (Sign of Danger), ((Auman)) is turning heads and shining a light on Palembang’s rock scene.

Since it was formed in 2010, the five-piece rock band has been drawing from the same references as rock bands in bigger cities like Jakarta or Bandung, West Java to consistently produce solid tunes.

That’s what Suar Marabahaya is all about. In their press release, ((Auman)) explains the story behind the album title. “We want to be the beacon from an uncharted territory in the local rock scene [Palembang], which is often underestimated. Coming from a lesser-known music scene doesn’t mean that we can’t produce something great.”

((Auman)) consists of Palembang locals Zarbin Sulaiman on bass, Farid Amriansyah on vocals, Erwin Wijaya and Ahmad Ruliansyah on guitars and Aulia Effendy on drums. All members of the band have previously worked on different projects in Palembang, except Farid Amriansyah, who migrated back home after series of adventures in Jakarta.

“[The music] scene in Palembang is alive and well. Each generation has its own romances and stories. But in the last couple of years, lots of new movements have been happening. We’ve been building lots of collectives, arranging gigs and doing a few other things here,” the band said.

((Auman)) has survived challenges with their music. Their version of rock, a take on alternative rock that might be uncommon to average ears, is a prime example of how unique surroundings can inspire something beautiful.

“We’re using local resources in Suar Marabahaya — our producer, the recording studio, recording engineers and even the local Sriwijaya Rimau Rocker Choir,” the band continued.

If you’re into rock and been following Indonesian rock bands such as Seringai, Superman is Dead, Burgerkill and Koil, then (Auman) should be included in your next playlist.

As an album, Suar Marabahaya is proof that (Auman) has what it takes to be successful in the rock scene — tight musical tunes, good lyrics, bold rock hooks and a heavy sound on every single part of the album. The album is a solid introduction to a rock band that stands as a proud ambassador of a once overlooked rock scene.

— 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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