Every Friday night, RVA Mag brings you an A-plus can’t-miss playlist curated by Virginia’s most influential artists, musicians, and institutions.
This one comes to us courtesy of Rumput, a delightful Richmond-based ensemble that combines the classic string-band traditions of early 20th century American music with folk music traditions of Indonesia, mainly focusing on keroncong — traditional Indonesian string-band music. Regularly working with Indonesian musicians, both locally and abroad, the dozen-plus member ensemble incorporates a variety of Indonesian instruments, as well as shadow theater, into their multimedia performances.
Rumput has been quite active in the Richmond area recently, and even performed with Indonesian master musicians Endah Laras (vocals) and Danis Sugiyanto (violin) at the Smithsonian earlier this month. They’ll accompany Laras and Sugiyanto again for a performance of keroncong classics at this weekend’s Richmond Folk Festival on Brown’s Island. Their set will take place at 3:15 PM on Sunday, October 13 on the CarMax Family Stage (more info here). If you’re not familiar with Rumput as yet, it’s a great opportunity to expand your musical horizons and enjoy some excellent string-band sounds. Plus, admission is free!
Before that, though, take a listen to the excellent sounds this extensive ensemble have assembled for us all. Featuring not only blues, jazz, and folk sounds from the United States but plenty of traditional sounds from all over the world and even a few modern sounds by contemporary artists, the playlist offers an excellent preview of the many varied influences Rumput draw from in order to create their multi-cultural sound.
“Our playlist is based on songs we’ve played, artists we’ve collaborated with and/or been inspired by, music we’ve encountered while touring Java, and music we’ve turned each other onto while touring regionally,” states the group. “Also, Western songs that stretch time like the Indonesian musics we love.”
Stretch into it, Virginia.
Open this playlist from mobile in your Spotify app HERE.
Music Sponsored By Graduate Richmond
