Last night, exactly one year since his last performance in Kuala Lumpur, Indonesian singer-songwriter Kunto Aji graced the stage at ZeppKL.
This time, the respected artiste brought the much-anticipated finale of his “Perjalanan Menawar Racun” tour, making Malaysia’s capital the final stop on his remarkable recent journey.
Despite 28th August being a weekday, fans were excited — many arrived at the venue straight from work. Some audience members were there as early as 4pm, eager to watch Kunto Aji during the soundcheck session. Although it was just a rehearsal, the crowd was already having fun, setting the tone for an exciting evening ahead.
The concert began promptly at 8.30pm, kicked off by powerful renditions of “Perjalanan Menawar Racun” and “Konon Katanya.” Kunto Aji’s performance, marked by an engaging selection of 20 songs, charged the atmosphere with energy and anticipation. The night was a captivating blend of upbeat tracks and emotionally resonant ballads, including highlights from his acclaimed albums such as “Mantra Mantra” and “Penghantar Purifikasi Pikir.”
As someone who had seen Kunto Aji perform live at Petronas Philharmonic Hall, I was eager to experience his music in a different setting. The more casual, interactive atmosphere at ZeppKL, where standing was encouraged, offered a refreshing change.
The concert’s emotional journey was both exhilarating and thought-provoking. Kunto Aji’s deliberate sequencing of energetic and contemplative songs created a rollercoaster of feelings. The shifts from high-energy tracks to more calm melodies left me in a state of emotional contemplation, reflecting the depth and range of his artistry.
The evening’s emotional peak came with “Pilu Membiru,” about which he said: “This song brings listeners to a point of sorrow where they might remember those who have left them.” Some fans were moved to tears by the song’s powerful lyrics and melody, which sparked a moment of reflection.
The artiste’s “Penghantar Purifikasi Pikir” album also featured prominently, with songs like “Urip,” “Melepas Pelukan Ibu,” and “Jangan Melamun Saat Hujan” resounding throughout the venue. The album, according to Kunto Aji, represents a journey of mental purification and growth.
As the concert drew to a close, Kunto Aji announced an exciting event for 2025—a special “Urup” concert in Yogyakarta on New Year’s Day. This promise of a fresh and unique experience left me eagerly anticipating his next visit.
Overall, the concert not only deepened my appreciation for Kunto Aji’s music, but also inspired a renewed connection to his work. The intimate setting and the wide, dynamic range of the performance left me with a lasting impression.
