On 1 December 2023, the vibrant heart of Sydney’s music scene shifted to the iconic UNSW Roundhouse, where a large crowd gathered for a musical spectacle presented by PPIA UTS (Persatuan Pelajar Indonesia Australia University of Technology Sydney). Hosting a multinational crowd within its 1000-capacity walls, the venue became the stage for Senandung Nostalgia 2023 (SENDAL FEST). The theme, “Alunan Masa Lalu – Symphony of the Past,” resonated throughout the event, inviting attendees on a nostalgic journey while embracing the vibrancy of the present.
The event was opened by Sydney-based band Frasa, with their rendition of classic Indonesian songs, including traditional folk songs. The band paid homage to the timeless melodies that have left an indelible mark on generations.
Amidst the symphony of nostalgic tunes, TheOvertunes emerged as a breath of fresh air. Their performances brought a contemporary edge, creating an atmosphere that resonated with a younger audience while seamlessly blending with the festival’s theme of reliving the past. TheOvertunes’ presence added a new dimension to SENDAL FEST 2023, showcasing the evolution of Indonesian music and introducing a new element that captivated attendees.
D’MASIV took centre stage as SENDAL FEST 2023’s headliner, marking their 20th anniversary as a band. As the night unfolded, D’MASIV delivered a performance that transcended expectations. Their classic hits “Cinta Ini Membunuhku” and “Jangan Menyerah” were sung in sync by the crowd. Their iconic performance captivated the audience, evoking nostalgia for cherished moments.
Diskoria took centre stage as a mesmerising DJ set as the night was coming to an end. The transition from live performances to pulsating beats signaled the beginning of an immersive experience that kept the audience on their feet, dancing into the late hours. The DJ duo’s seamless transitions between tracks and ability to blend old-school songs like “Berharap Tak Berpisah” with contemporary beats created an electric ambiance that resonated throughout the venue. Diskoria’s performance left an unforgettable imprint as the festival drew to a close, ensuring that attendees departed with euphoric memories of a night. The DJ duo closed the night with their hit “Badai Telah Berlalu,” marking the end of a successful event that intertwined the past with the future of Indonesian music. [IM]
