The album opens not with a guitar riff, but with the sound of a gendang (traditional drum) and the distant call of a serunai (oboe-like instrument). Spoken-word narration in classical Malay intones a pledge of loyalty to a forgotten kingdom. It’s a bold choice that immediately signals that this is not a typical rock album. The track segues seamlessly into the first proper song via a feedback loop.
Laskar Artist: Gong 2000 Released: 1991
The title track is a high-octane anthem that perfectly represents the band’s sound—blistering guitar riffs by Ian Antono combined with Achmad Albar’s iconic high-pitched vocals. It serves as a call to action, setting a intense tone for the rest of the album. Duniaku
Tracks like Alam Dan Penguasa and Polusi tackled environmental degradation head-on. They criticized the ruling class and industrial tycoons for destroying natural landscapes in the name of profit. Kaki Tangan Setan (The Devil's Henchmen) used dark imagery to call out political corruption and greed. Cultural Fusion gong 2000 album laskar
Although it did not reach the same immediate commercial saturation as their first album, Laskar is highly regarded by collectors and fans of 90s Indonesian rock. The tapes have aged well, with fans noting the high-quality recording that still provides a satisfying audio experience today.
In the realm of progressive rock, few bands have managed to create a sound as distinctive and enchanting as Gong. With a rich history spanning over five decades, this British-French ensemble has been pushing the boundaries of musical exploration, fusion, and experimentation. One of the most fascinating chapters in Gong's saga is their 2000 album, , a work that embodies the band's signature blend of psychedelic rock, jazz, and world music elements. In this article, we'll embark on a journey to explore the creative process, musical themes, and the lasting impact of Laskar , a true masterpiece in Gong's discography.
The full album can be streamed today on major digital outlets, including YouTube Music and Spotify . The Genesis of Gong 2000 and the Laskar Era The album opens not with a guitar riff,
Before diving into , it's essential to understand the context of Gong's evolution. Formed in 1967 by Australian-born musician and artist, Daevid Allen, Gong emerged as a key player in the psychedelic rock scene, associated with the Summer of Love. Over the years, the band went through various lineup changes, with Allen being the primary driving force. Gong's early work, characterized by albums like You (1968) and Shamal (1975), showcased their unique fusion of rock, jazz, and Eastern influences.
The album features legendary figures from the Indonesian rock scene, most notably members of the iconic band : Achmad Albar: Lead Vocals Ian Antono: Guitar & Backing Vocals Donny Fattah: Bass & Backing Vocals Harry Anggoman: Keyboards Yaya Moektio: Drums Tracklist
Gong 2000’s second album, , was released in 1993 —though some sources list 1994. The album title, which means "warriors" or "troops," was a fitting prelude to the powerful music contained within. The track segues seamlessly into the first proper
When discussing the giants of Indonesian rock music, the conversation inevitably turns to . Formed as a "supergroup" in the early 1990s, Gong 2000 brought together some of the most influential figures in the scene to create a heavier, more modern sound. Their 1993 album, Laskar , stands as a landmark release, showcasing intense lyrical themes, masterful instrumentation, and a refined hard rock sound that defined an era.
"Laskar" is a significant album in Gong's discography, showcasing the band's ability to evolve and adapt to changing musical landscapes. The album's eclectic sound and poetic themes reflect Daevid Allen's innovative spirit and commitment to exploring new musical frontiers. While not a commercial breakthrough, "Laskar" has developed a loyal following among fans of psychedelic and progressive rock.