4 days ago
Indonesian hijab-wearing metal band performs in Japan
An all-female, hijab-wearing heavy metal band from Indonesia captivated the audience at their first ever performance in Japan.
The trio named Voice of Baceprot was formed in 2014 in West Java. They are known for music that challenges religious and gender norms. Their songs feature anti-war themes and social issues such as women's rights and environmental protection.
They have performed internationally, taking part in large-scale music events and touring abroad. The BBC selected the lead singer for its 2024 list of 100 influential women worldwide.
On Saturday, the three members appeared at a music festival in Yokohama, near Tokyo, and played about 10 songs.
One woman in the audience said the band members are cool and have awesome music and musical skills. She said their performance was stunning and she can still feel the impact. She added she could understand the messages the songs were trying to express.
The lead vocalist and guitarist, Firda Marsya Kurnia, said the voices of those who have been excluded need to be amplified, and the band aims to use its music to help that. She added she hopes to return to Japan with more songs.
