Soloevent.id – Let’s explore the unusual band of Semarang! That is Congrock17. The group which established on 17 March 1983 features with typically Keroncong music type.
The number of 17 took from the University of 17 August 1945 (UNTAG) Semarang because it founded by its students. Then, “Cong” stands for Keroncong and “Rock” is from a rock.
Even though it uses rock, it does not mean that the music is loud and roaring. For them, rock means music freedom. So, don’t be surprised if Congrok17 combines Keroncong with jazz, pop, dangdut, and other musical colors.
One of Congrock17’s personnel, Marco Marnadi, explained that the incorporation of these musical elements is a manifestation of freedom of expression without being restricted by binding patterns or rules.
One of the band founders, Yanto recounts that naming Congrock 17 began when they sang the song Rek Ayo Rek by Is Haryanto and I Want to Break Free from Queen that delivered with Keroncong rhythm in a fast tempo. People who watched them at the time called their music rocky. At that time, Congrock17 was still named Keroncong Remaja 17.
Because of this Congrock 17 idealism, they had been ostracizing from the Keroncong music community because it was considered to damage the grip of Keroncong music. Use it includes several musical instruments. If other groups play Keroncong with seven tools, Congrock will use less or more than the standard. It was inappropriate for Keroncong. But over time, Congrock17 was accepted by the community and the Keroncong community.
Congrock17 has 17 members and they have added several modern instruments, such as bass, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, drums, and keyboards. Congrock17 also involves several young personnel, Dila in his 20s.
During its 36-year career, Congrock17 has performed at various events, starting from a gig in the appearance of the 6th President of the Republic of Indonesia to the World Music Festival in Johor, Malaysia.
(Foto: Congrock17)
