“We keep the themes of our songs light, life is heavy enough,” folk trio NonaRia said jokingly.

Through its cheerful lyrics and 1950s-infused tunes, NonaRia has walked us down memory lane and made us momentarily forget about all of our problems.

NonaRia — the name of which derives from nona-nona ceria (cheerful ladies) — spread its joy in an intimate performance at Galeri Indonesia Kaya in Jakarta last month.

Yasintha, along with pianist Nanin Wardhani and Nesia Ardi (vocals and snare), performed traditional songs from eastern Indonesia, beautifully arranged with its signature 1940s to 1950s inspired folk jazz style.

It was a well-rounded performance. In between the songs, the trio managed to squeeze in sentimental feelings, laughter and educational messages; and treated the audience as if they were old friends.

Dressed in bright kebaya blouses and traditional wraparounds, the trio performed, among other songs, Papua’s “Yamko Rambe Yamko”, Maluku’s “Rasa Sayange”, Makassar’s “Angin Mamiri” and North Sulawesi’s “Si Patokaan.”

“If you really look at the meanings of these songs, mostly these songs are about fishing, or someone’s journey, or the feeling of missing someone,” the trio told the audience.

NonaRia, for example, explained that “Si Patokaan” was a song that captured a mother’s feelings as she let her son embark on a journey.

Aside from bringing its unique interpretations of traditional songs, NonaRia also belted out original songs such as “Sebusur Pelangi” (Rainbow) and “Hari Bahagia” (Happy Day), which come from its self-titled album.

“We chose to play with the 1940s to 1950s style simply because we think it’s cool, and there are not many musicians these days that choose this style” Yasintha said.

“Our music is just simple lyrics with deep meanings that when people listen to it, it sticks in their minds.”

NonaRia was formed in 2012 with Nanin, Nesia and accordionist Rieke Astari as original members. Rieke left the band in 2014 as she moved to Papua. Her position was later filled by violinist Yasintha Pattiasina.

Their humble beginnings emerged from their common interest in sharing their love and awe for 1940 to 1950s music. The trio named Indonesian legendary composer Ismail Marzuki, jazz maestro Bubi Chen and Ella Fitzgerald as their sources of inspirations.

“It began as an interest, but we grew to care a lot about the music,” Yasintha said.

Following its self-titled album in 2018, NonaRia released new single Jadi Wanita (Becoming a Woman) in celebration of Kartini Day on April 21. The song will be added to its upcoming second album.

“We’re releasing a new single soon, with the remaining songs coming with the album next year” the trio shared.

- The writer is an intern at The Jakarta Post. 

- Photos by JP/Syelanita

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