[2026] A roundup of recommended bands from Indonesia

Love SongGrrrl Gang

Grrrl Gang – Love Song (Official Audio)

I want to blast away everyday struggles and mental fog with powerful sound! If you feel the same, Grrrl Gang from Indonesia is here for you.

Their music inherits the spirit of indie pop and riot grrrl, overflowing with a “honey-vinegar” charm where sweetness and sharp edges coexist.

After their 2017 debut, they drew attention with their signature track “Dream Grrrl,” and in September 2023 released their long-awaited album Spunky! With candid lyrics drawn from the vocalist’s diary—singing about struggles with self-acceptance and more—you’ll find yourself nodding along, thinking, “I know exactly how that feels!” They’re the perfect band for blasting away the blues, channeling the same energy as their famously intense, sweat-drenched mosh-pit live shows.

DanSheila On 7

Sheila on 7 – Dan (Official Music Video)

Sheila on 7 is a national band indispensable to any discussion of Indonesia’s music scene.

Formed in Yogyakarta, they’re known for their approachable sound rooted in pop rock.

Upon debuting in 1999, they shot to stardom with their signature song “Dan.” They went on to release a string of hits such as “Sephia,” and achieved an unprecedented feat in Indonesia: three consecutive million-selling albums with their first three releases, including the album “Sheila On 7.” Their talent is undeniable, as evidenced by numerous accolades including the Indonesian Music Awards.

The so-called “Sheila style”—straightforward lyrics that sing of the sparkle of youth and the happiness of everyday life, paired with melodies anyone can hum—has been loved across generations.

If you’re looking for heartwarming pop rock, chances are you’ll become captivated by them.

TimurThe Adams

Timur

The Adams is a powerhouse band that has led Indonesia’s indie scene for over 20 years.

Formed in Jakarta in 2002, they’re known for an irresistibly catchy sound that fuses power pop with alternative rock.

“Konservatif,” from their 2005 debut album The Adams, became a major hit after being featured on the soundtrack of the film Janji Joni.

The song’s quality is beyond doubt—it was included in Rolling Stone Indonesia’s list of the 150 Greatest Indonesian Songs.

With sweet harmonies and lyrics that resonate with everyday life, many listeners can’t help but relate.

Their exhilarating melodies and energetic live shows are sure to add a vibrant splash to the daily life of anyone seeking fresh music from Asia.

Kisah Dari Selatan JakartaWhite Shoes & The Couples Company

Kisah Dari Selatan Jakarta – White Shoes & The Couples Company

White Shoes & The Couples Company is an Indonesian band formed at an art university in Jakarta.

Centered on indie pop, their sound fuses jazz, ’60s pop, and even ’70s film music—a true “work of art you can listen to”! Their 2005 debut album, White Shoes & The Couples Company, caught the attention of a U.S.

label, and in 2006 they were named one of the “most charming bands” by AllMusic, earning international acclaim early on.

Their uniquely stylish world—born from a multi-talented collective whose members also work in art and film—is part of their appeal.

They’re the perfect band to check out when you’re looking for retro, sophisticated Asian indie pop.

Move AlongSummerlane

SUMMERLANE – Move Along (Official Video)

Summerlane is an Indonesian pop-punk band whose name perfectly captures their brisk, energetic sound—like the stride of summer itself.

Rooted in the New Found Glory school of pop-punk, they’ve been active since 2015, wielding driving guitar riffs and melodies that evoke a touch of nostalgia.

Their signature tracks include Sweet Escape, Heaven’s Hell, and the collaboration Sebelum Selamanya, through which they’ve sung candidly about the conflicts and passions of everyday youth.

At the 27th Anugerah Musik Indonesia in 2024, they were nominated alongside a host of heavyweight talents, proving the high caliber of their work.

Their fiery, DIY-spirited live shows feel like the very rush of adolescence turned into sound.

Even after lineup changes, their music hasn’t lost its spark—it may just remind you of the bittersweet days gone by and warm your heart, if only a little.

Terbuang Dalam WaktuBarasuara

Barasuara – Terbuang Dalam Waktu (Official Video)

Barasuara is a band that transcends the boundaries of alternative rock, dynamically blending Indonesian tradition and innovation.

Formed in Jakarta in 2012, they captivate with powerful rhythms and poetic lyrics that reflect on society.

“Bahas Bahasa,” from their acclaimed 2015 album Taifun, drew early attention, winning an AMI Award the following year in 2016.

Their true essence shines in their breathtaking live performances: hailed by Rolling Stone as Best Live Act, their stage presence—enhanced by the vocalist’s traditional batik attire—seems to symbolize their identity.

Their music may well suggest new possibilities for Asia’s rock scene.

Dekat Di HatiRAN

RAN – Dekat di Hati (Official Music Video)

Compared to other bands, RAN is relatively new, but it is extremely popular among Indonesians.

Since ‘Dekat Di Hati’ is a song themed around long-distance love, it’s a perfect fit for those of you who find yourselves in the situation of ‘even when we’re apart, our hearts are connected.’