In this interview feature, I chat with Indonesia based drummer Jeane Phialsa about her new album (The Moment With You), the music scene in Indonesia, why she enjoys the drums so much and more.
Full Q&A along with links and music below.
A while back, I featured Fusion Stuff, an Indonesian band Jeane plays with. You can find that feature article here.
Where are you from and what style of music do you create?
Usually, I create music based on my imagination and the mood at that time. Honestly, I listen to all genres of music so I’m just trying to be honest with the things that’s on my mind. Although I’m a drummer, I really like the notation and harmonization of music rather than just showing my ability.
What led you to choosing drums as your instrument of choice? What motivates you to continue playing and making music?
I am a very shy person. I think playing drums is the right position for me because a drummer will never become a front man. I feel safe there. Basically, I like all the instruments and I try to learn all the instruments. However, I am very comfortable being a drummer.
I feel like be myself when creating music and people love to listen to music, so I feel very useful for others. That’s one of my motivations to continue creating music.
What is the music scene like in Indonesia? Do you hope to gain more attention from music fans in other countries?
In Indonesia music has started to progress and a have a variety colors of music. Music Quality is much better (than in the past)! Musicians in Indonesia are free in creating music because music lovers have become classier and smarter. They appreciate musicians more.
I really want to spread goodness through music and I really hope this kindness can spread all over the world.
Does being a female add any challenges or obstacles to your career in music?
As a female musician, one of my principles is not to be distinguished. Because it can make me have many excuses in developing my skills. So any criticism and suggestions of others to me, I will accept in order to continue to develop my musical ability.
When someone doubts a female musician, then i will rotate it from negative energy to be positive. Moreover, I play music just trying to be honest and very eager to provide benefits for all mankind.
How is your new release different from previous ones? Were you trying to accomplish anything specific?
I just had one solo album, titled “The Moment With You” which was released in 2015. But I just released an album with friends from Fusion Stuff in 2018.
Both are different because my solo album and Fusion Stuff albums have different colors. My album feels more feminine than the Fusion Stuff album.
Name one or two challenges you face as an indie musician in this oversaturated, digital music age? How has technology helped you (since we know it does help)?
The challenge in this digital music age is the increasing number of music produced and more tricky in terms of business because of the increasing number of music choices for music lovers.
But now the digital music age makes the world increasingly no limit. It will be easier for music lovers in search of various genres of songs from various countries. It’s cool!
Where is the best place to connect with you online and discover more music?
My solo album titled “The Moment With You” can be heard on Spotify, Joox, Apple Music and other digital platforms. I also have youtube channel “Jeane Phialsa” besides that you can also follow my instagram in “@ jeanephialsa”
Anything else before we sign off?
I hope all musicians around the world can always spread the good through the music and the world becomes more peaceful.
