Mr Martinus Indra Hermawan | Music | Trailblazing Academic Award

Mr Martinus Indra Hermawan , Jogja Noise Bombing , Indonesia

Indra Menus, born Martinus Indra Hermawan, is an influential figure in experimental noise music. Starting with the hardcore punk project To Die in 1998, Indra evolved his musical journey into a solo endeavor under the names To Die & Indra Menus. Renowned for his international tours and multifaceted roles in the independent music scene, he is active with Kongsi Jahat Syndicate, YK Booking, and DoggyHouse Records. His contributions extend to zine archives, music journalism, and collective projects like Jogja Noise Bombing, which he co-founded. Indra has released notable works, including a comprehensive noise compilation and multiple books, and continues to shape the music landscape through curating, writing, and archival efforts.

Publication Profile

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Strengths for the Award

1. Innovative Contributions: Indra Menus has significantly advanced the field of experimental noise music through his pioneering work with To Die, Jogja Noise Bombing, and various international collaborations. His research and publications, such as “Pekak! Indonesian Noise 1995-2015” and “Jogja Noise Bombing: From the Street to The Stage,” reflect deep exploration and documentation of noise music’s evolution.
2. Cultural Impact: His initiatives, including Jogja Noise Bombing and Jogja Sonic Index, have played crucial roles in promoting and archiving experimental music in Southeast Asia. These projects contribute to the global understanding of niche music cultures and experimental genres.
3. Academic Engagement: Menus’ academic contributions, such as his work with the Japan Foundation and his published articles and books, demonstrate his commitment to scholarly research and the dissemination of knowledge about experimental music.
4. Multifaceted Roles: His extensive experience as a musician, curator, festival organizer, and writer showcases his versatility and deep engagement with the music community. This multifaceted involvement highlights his ability to influence and shape various aspects of the music scene.

Areas for Improvement

1. Broader Academic Outreach: While Indra Menus has made significant contributions to the field, expanding his research to include more collaborative academic projects or partnerships with universities could further enhance his impact and visibility.
2. Diverse Publication Platforms: Increasing the range of publication platforms, including more high-impact academic journals, could broaden the reach of his research and findings, making them more accessible to a wider academic audience.
3. Enhanced Focus on Impact Measurement: Providing detailed assessments of the impact of his projects and research on the music industry and academic fields could strengthen the case for his award nomination by showcasing concrete outcomes and contributions.

Education

Indra Menus has an extensive background in music and cultural studies, though specific formal educational details are sparse. His practical education is evident through his long-standing involvement in the experimental noise music scene and independent music community. His experience includes self-directed research under the Japan Foundation’s Asia Center fellowship, where he studied the experimental noise scenes in Southeast Asia and Japan. This hands-on experience, combined with his active participation in various music-related projects, has greatly informed his knowledge and expertise in the field.

Experience

Indra Menus boasts a rich and diverse professional background. Since 2001, he has owned Relamati Records, and since 2005, Kongsi Jahat Syndicate, an independent music event organizer. His roles have included music journalist positions at several now-defunct publications, including Dinamic Aural Bliss Magazine and EAR Magazine, and managing DoggyHouse Records since 2014. He founded Jogja Noise Bombing in 2009 and directed Jogja Records Store Club from 2015 to 2019. His work spans organizing festivals, curating exhibitions, and producing critical writings, reflecting his deep involvement in the experimental music and independent music scenes.

Awards and Honors

Indra Menus has received several accolades, highlighting his contributions to music. In 2009, he won the DAB Music Award for Best Music Organizer with Kongsi Jahat Syndicate. His work with DoggyHouse Records earned him AMI Awards in 2017 and 2018 for Best Reggae/SKA/Rocksteady Productions, and again in 2023. His innovative efforts and impact on the music scene have been recognized through these awards, affirming his influence and dedication to the industry.

Research Focus

Indra Menus’ research focuses on experimental noise music and its cultural impact, particularly in Southeast Asia and Japan. Under the Japan Foundation’s Asia Center fellowship in 2016, he investigated the networks connecting experimental noise scenes across these regions. His research culminated in the publication of “Pekak! On Warning Books” and further exploration into Indonesian noise music’s history and influence. This research reflects his commitment to documenting and analyzing niche music cultures, contributing valuable insights to the field of experimental music.

Publications

• Pekak! Indonesian Noise 1995-2015: 20 Years of Experimental Music from Indonesia 🎵
• Jogja Noise Bombing: From the Street to The Stage 📚
• Prolifik: Compilation of Music Writings 1999-2021 📖
• Daftar Menus Tour Kulineran di Eropa 🌍

Conclusion

Indra Menus is a strong candidate for the Research for Trailblazing Academic Award due to his groundbreaking work in experimental noise music, his influential projects, and his dedication to both scholarly research and practical music scene contributions. His achievements reflect a profound commitment to advancing the understanding and appreciation of niche music genres, making him a worthy nominee for this recognition. With further expansion of academic collaborations and publication efforts, his contributions could have an even greater impact on the field.