Genre
Hardcore
Band Members
- C Manurung: Throat, High Gain, Low Gain, 11, 69, Gendong Monyet, Beer, Writer
- Al Syawal: High Gain, Etc
- Rodrigo Pasaribu: Low Gain, Publisher, Analyst
- Fe Al Izlami: Percussion, Ambtenaar, Analyst
Origin
Daerah Khusus Ibukota Jakarta, Indonesia
Record Label
Movement Record
Quote
"Music is not something important in life, but music can open important layers of life."
Biography
Dirty Edge, a hardcore band from Jakarta, Indonesia, was formed in the 1990s as an evolution from another group known as Kardus TV, which began in late 1994. Kardus TV initially played songs from classic punk bands such as Rancid, Social Distortion, and Bad Religion. The original lineup included Coki ‘holiday’ Manurung (vocals), Fucky (guitar), Rodrigo Pasaribu (bass), and Jamaludin Malik (drums). The name Kardus TV emerged from a spontaneous suggestion by Coki during a disagreement about the band's identity, which all members ultimately accepted.
As Kardus TV began to establish itself within the local punk scene, bassist Rodrigo encouraged Coki to dissolve the band and form a new one. He envisioned a faster-paced musical style that would represent a more serious endeavor than Kardus TV. Rodrigo proposed the name Dirty Edge, which symbolized the political landscape of the late 1990s in Indonesia, where many politicians, despite their claims of integrity, were often seen as hypocritical amidst widespread corruption and human rights abuses. The name Dirty Edge resonated with a generation that identified with the struggles of society, aiming to foster a greater sense of humanity and understanding through their music.
Initially reluctant, Coki embraced the concept and philosophy behind the new band. Rodrigo aspired for them to compose their own songs while also covering tracks from established bands. With this fresh vision, they sought out musicians who could align with their new musical direction. Rodrigo introduced Hermes Gurning, a dedicated fan of Jimi Hendrix, to Coki. Hermes's impressive guitar skills and extensive musical knowledge caught Coki's attention. Prior to joining, Hermes had played in various bands, covering a wide range of genres from Jimi Hendrix to Megadeth. Jamaludin Malik continued as drummer until 1997.
Dirty Edge made their live debut at the underground music festival Hullaballoo III in Bandung in 1996, quickly gaining traction and performing weekly at various events. They often covered songs by the German hardcore band Ryker, leading to their identification as the Indonesian counterpart of Ryker. However, they also occasionally performed softer tracks, such as "Making Believe" by Social Distortion, which surprised event organizers, particularly when Rodrigo expressed initial reservations about playing softer music.
Like many bands, Dirty Edge experienced lineup changes. Drummer Jamaludin Malik left, and the band found his replacement, Ovie Alaydrus, through a recommendation from Rodrigo’s brother in 1997. Ovie's exceptional drumming skills were a welcomed addition to the band.
In 1998, while working on their debut album, the band faced a significant tragedy with the death of Hermes due to drug-related issues. His passing deeply affected the members, leaving them disoriented. Despite the loss, they maintained contact and, with encouragement from Rodrigo and other musicians, gradually found the strength to continue. They briefly recruited Fucky as a guitarist, but fundamental musical differences led to his departure. Al Syawal filled the position temporarily until Rowland, Rodrigo's brother, joined the band from 1998 to 2000. Initially hesitant, Rodrigo was convinced by Coki of Rowland’s fit within the group.
The band faced another challenge with the departure of drummer Ovie, but through their network, they found Feisal Al Izlami, who played from 1998 to 2010. This new lineup—Coki (lead vocals), Rodrigo (bass), Rowland (guitar), and Feisal (drums)—successfully recorded their first album, titled Enter The Zone.
Influence
U!
Booking Agent
Sam Alatas