Bali’s Music Arts & Culture Festival ‘Suara’ wraps third edition welcoming more than 9,000 fans from 60+ countries during Nuanu’s Opening Ceremony weekend
Watch Suara’s Day 1 Recap Here
Youngr at Suara Festival 2024 played to a packed crowd at the Suara Main Stage. Photo credit: Jason Reposar.
Nuanu City, Bali, August 1, 2024: Bali’s music arts and culture festival ‘Suara’ meaning ‘voice’ in Indonesian has wrapped its third edition following a successful three-day extravaganza. The multi-day event was made all the more special by the soft opening of the incredible festival site, the creative city Nuanu.
Welcoming more than 9,000 fans across three days from more than 60 countries, the crowd was a mix of Bali locals and visitors to the Island of the Gods. The weekend’s festivities embodied the philosophy of ‘Tri Hita Karana’ as an odyssey through Balinese culture where living in harmony with nature, community and spirituality seamlessly intertwined. Permeating the essence of the festival throughout all aspects of its programming, the philosophy was reflected in its highly curated lineup which included local legends, regional stars and a number of international acts making their Bali debut as Nuanu City opened up more of its 44-hectare site than ever before.
“This past weekend was undoubtedly one of the highlights of my 27 year career curating and producing events around the globe,” said Suara Co-Founder, CEO and Creative Director Jason Swamy.
“After months of hard work by our incredible team, it was amazing to see people interact, engage and appreciate all the elements that we spent a long time planning in meticulous detail. A huge shout out to our thousands of staff for helping us pull off such an extraordinary event as well as Nuanu founder Sergey Solonin for providing us with the ultimate playground. Building on his foundation from the two previous editions, his belief in our vision to take Suara to new, international heights while continuing to spotlight the incredibly rich culture and all that is on offer from across Bali, was instrumental to making the magic happen.
“This was not for the passive-minded, rather it was designed to be participatory in every possible way and so a big shout out to all who joined us and wholeheartedly embraced our programming. We couldn’t have done this without you.”
Musical highlights included a heartwarming performance from headline act Angus & Julia Stone (AUS) who graced the Suara main stage on Sunday night with a four-piece band including a trumpet solo from Julia Stone, a packed dance floor for Saturday’s headliner HVOB (live) (AUT), and impeccable tunes from Friday’s headliner, classically trained electronic ensemble Brandt Brauer Frick (GER). A plethora of local and international talent such as Ramengvrl (ID), Batavia Collective (ID), We are Neurotic (ID), Yung Raja (SG), LP Giobbi (USA), Rodriguez Jr. (FRA), Sainte Vie (GER), YoungR (UK), Deer Jade (CH), Geju (RUS), Lastlings (AUS), Mansionair (AUS) and collectives Lifted (HK), Yeti (HK), small&TALL (HK), Spin Sum (SG), Chi Wah Wah (AUS), Disko Afrika (ID) plus more rounded out the musical lineup.
With more than 100 music artists performing across one of the festival’s more than nine stages, the packed programming also spanned visual, interactive and performance art, cultural acts, circus performances, food, beverage and market vendors, wellness sessions, dance classes, breathwork, inspiring talks, sustainability initiatives, and family-friendly activities. With something for everyone no matter age or life stage, Suara Festival offered a slice of what it could be like to live and play inside Nuanu’s walls.
“Seeing Nuanu come alive with global creativity and energy during this year’s Suara Festival was truly inspiring. The festival offered an incredible journey of music, art, and cultural exchange, and we are grateful to everyone who made this event a success. We look forward to creating even more unforgettable experiences in our Creative City in the future,” said Sergey Solonin, Founder of Nuanu, Co-Founder of Suara Festival.
For those keen to partake in next year’s festivities at an unparalleled price, the fourth edition of Suara Festival in 2025 is announced with tickets on-sale starting at US$138 via Megatix.
See below for the top experiences from the third edition of Suara. With so many incredible experiences on offer, it is not hard to see why it is fast becoming the must-attend destination festival in Southeast Asia.
Suara Festival 2024 Highlights
Nuanu Opening Ceremony on Day 1
Kicking off on Friday, July 26 at 2pm with Nuanu’s opening ceremony to mark the soft opening of Nuanu, the reception included a welcome speech from the Creative City’s founder Sergey Solonin alongside remarks from a local government official – I Gede Susila, the Regional Secretary of Tabanan Regency, Bali. The proceedings were complemented by an Okokan dance, a traditional dance originating from Tabanan, the region in which Nuanu is situated. The ceremony focused on the vision for the Creative City and how Suara is embodying the five pillars of Nuanu (education, art & culture, nature, health & wellness, living & lifestyle) across its diverse programming.
Earth Sentinels by Daniel Popper
Renowned South African sculpturalist Daniel Popper’s stunning Earth Sentinels stood guard over attendees as they entered through the festival grounds with exceptional nature-inspired visual projection mapping lighting up the installation after dark.
Grammy-nominees Mansionair pulled at the heartstrings on Day 1
Taking the stage on Friday evening, the Aussie electronic trio’s emotive melodies had the main stage enthralled.
Circus spectacles
Bali’s Circus Academy roamed the festival grounds on stilts dressed as butterflies adding tropical flair throughout the site. Aerialist hoopers and trapeze artists from Moving Stars Bali swung high above revellers and Fiery Pixies played with fire with grace and precision leaving festivalgoers in awe.
Traditional Balinese performances
From Kecak (a Balinese Hindu dance and musical drama developed in the 1930s), to Joged Bumbung (a dance intended as entertainment which has been proposed to be part of world cultural heritage by UNESCO) to Barong and Rangda dances (a dance of mythological creatures with supernatural powers showcasing the eternal battle between good and evil), traditional performances peppered throughout the festival offered international guests an opportunity to immerse themselves in Bali’s rich, cultural heritage.
Dancing in the rain with Rodriguez Jr. (LIVE) at Luna Beach Club on Day 1
Making his debut in Bali, France’s Rodriguez Jr. wowed festivalgoers with a driving live melodic set that had revellers dancing seaside surrounded by lush nature against the backdrop of Nyanyi beach and Alexander Milov’s LUNA sculpture at Bali’s newest beachclub. As he closed out the stunning day to night venue close to midnight, raindrops on the dance floor added the perfect dramatic touch to the final few minutes of his set offering some much needed refreshment after a full day dancing under the sun and stars.
Day 1 Headliner Brandt Brauer Frick (LIVE) on the Suara Main Stage
Closing out the Suara main stage, German electronic trio Brandt Brauer Frick shared their ‘emotional body music’ influenced by renowned composers such as Steve Reich and Philip Glass coupled with the likes of producers Ricardo Villalobos and Plastikman.
The KidsZone by Jungle Kids
Throughout each day of the festival, daytime programming for children by Bali’s Jungle Kids meant families could experience the Suara magic with little ones so they could explore, learn and have fun before the evening’s festivities kicked in. From face painting and storytime to dreamcatcher making, wooden toy decorating, clay masterclasses, magicians, capoeira dancers, experiments, and so much more, a nanny service also supported parents throughout the festival weekend.
Cuddles with adorable alpacas
Festivalgoers could make a new furry friend at Bali’s one and only Alpaca connection with festivalgoers being among the first to visit the animal farm. Located in a field a short stroll from the main festival grounds away from the hustle and bustle, a unique experience awaited those willing to make the short trek. Nestled in the heart of Nuanu, Pacha Alpaca is a soul sanctuary where fans could spend time getting to know the adorable animals in a serene environment, recharging before heading back to the event.
Interactive multimedia at Aurora Park
Festivalgoers at Suara got to be one of the first to explore the new innovative and audiovisual journey through Aurora Park, a one-kilometre trail offering visitors a unique experience through eight permanent art installations. Playing with light and its interpretation, fans were able to go on a personal journey of discovery through the first multimedia outdoor park in Bali that also integrates AI technology. Immersing themselves in a world of light and creativity, along the path fans discovered impressive installations with one of Suara’s hidden stages tucked away in the jungle near the river bed path with another permanent sculptural piece by Daniel Popper taking centre stage.
Embracing energy at Ash Stage
From inspiring talks from the likes of Melissa Loh, Co-founder Taman Petanu Eco Neighborhood- Regenerative Communities on ‘Lessons from 12 Years in a Bali Eco-Neighborhood’ to a panel on regenerative futures towards global sustainability with Handprint CEO Mathias Boissonot, festivalgoers heard from many brilliant and progressive minds on driving positive change not just in Bali, but the world. For those keen to fill their cup through movement, festivalgoers could choose from an array of sessions such as Ecstatic Dance, breathwork and Cacao Ceremonies with Awakened Dreamers, meditation and mantras with ALCHEMY, as well as Cuban salsa, Bachata and Kizomba workshops, alongside many more.
LP Giobbi sunset set at Luna Beach Club on Day 2
As day became night, American DJ, producer and classically-trained jazz pianist LP Giobbi soundtracked golden hour with her piano house music beats.
Lifted Showcase with Yung Raja and Ramengvrl on Suara main stage on Day 2
Bringing the hip hop vibes, Singapore’s Yung Raja decked out in head to toe silver stepped onto the Suara main stage, amping things up before Jakarta rap icon Ramengvrl brought her crew and ‘bad bitch’ energy to Saturday night. With the crowd singing along to her hits like ‘Vaselina’, together the duo showed that Southeast Asia’s hip hop scene is alive and kicking.
A packed dance floor for HVOB (live) on the Suara Main Stage on Day 2
HVOB’s live closing set at Suara on Saturday night was one of the busiest of the entire weekend. The notoriously private band had the entire dancefloor vibing from start to finish playing a mix of old and new favourites.
The best vendors that the Island of the Gods has to offer were all ther
From iconic Indonesian dishes like Nasgero’s tantalising Nasi Goreng through to oysters and sparkling wine by Oysters Love Bali, there was something on offer to cater to every palate. The marketplace was a vibrant retail experience offering up a number of unique and artisanal items for sale alongside sunglasses, water bottles, jewellery, festival fashion, flower crowns and even astrology readings with Deborah Erlich which booked out shortly after doors opened.
Afrohouse all day with Disko Afrika at Luna Stage on Day 3
Come Sunday, the party did not stop with local collective Disko Afrika ramping things up with their rhythmic afro house sparking multiple dance offs amongst the crowd throughout the afternoon.
Art at Longhouse
For fans of visual art Longhouse did not disappoint. The unique two story space featured a number of visual artists and interactive performances tucked away in its various gallery spaces. From tea ceremonies to a showcase of Javanese instruments, experiential rhythms, live painting, live DJ sets and exhibitions of fine paintings, photography and more, there was plenty to stimulate the senses.
A Sunday Soiree of Wings & Wishes, Nuanu’s Butterfly Release
On the final day at 5pm, festivalgoers were able to partake in an enchanting butterfly release ceremony, celebrating the beauty of transformation and conservation hosted by Nuanu’s native butterfly breeding program.
Pumping up with Youngr on the Suara Main Stage Day 3
Multi-instrumentalist Youngr drew a strong crowd to his high-energy set with his iconic bootleg anthems from the likes of Cher and more. Taking to the drums, percussion, vocals and more, the talented UK artist impressed attendees during his inaugural Bali show.
Intimate sessions at Labyrinth
The Labyrinth Stage transformed into a vibrant collective where both international and local artists showcased their talents. Attendees enjoyed a dynamic mix of concerts and DJ sets, with performances taking place both inside the studio and in the open air. The atmosphere was intimate, centred around a sacred fire that brought everyone together. The beats of the music, combined with live painting sessions, created an inspiring sense of community and shared experience, making it a memorable part of the festival.
Cruising with Casa Bacardi during changeovers
As one of the festival’s main sponsors the ‘House of Bacardi’ pop-up near the main stage brought the beats in between main stage changeovers.
Sunday night’s headline set on the Suara Main Stage with Angus & Julia Stone
The anticipation had been building all weekend with Angus & Julia Stone finally taking over the Suara main stage on Sunday evening playing to more than 4,500 fans, the largest crowd of the entire weekend. Playing a number of hits from their new album Cape Forestier alongside old favourites like ‘Big Jet Plane’ the Australian sibling folk duo were accompanied by a four-piece band.
LINEUP
Angus & Julia Stone
Brandt Brauer Frick
Deer Jade
DJ Wordy
Geju
Juan G
Lastlings
Mansionair
*Ramengvrl
Rodriguez Jr. (Live)
Sainte Vie (Live)
Youngr
Yung Raja
Batavia Collective
Jonathan Kusuma
Kimoji
Orasaré
Tantra Collective feat. Archie, Danny, Kai & Ones
Walearic
We Are Neurotic
Family Of Collectives:
Yeti Out feat. ONJUICY & mezz (HK)
Disko Afrika feat. Juan G, Batik Boy & Simply T (IND – Bali)
Chi Wow Wah (AUS)
Escape (IND – Bali)
Full Moon (IND – Bali)
GrooveTop (SG)
It’s Good to be a Tree (IND – Bali)
Kang Kao (TH)
La Piscine Electronique (IND – Bali)
LiFTED (HK)
MET (CH)
small&TALL (HK)
Soul Collective (SG)
Spin Sum (HK)
TOTEM (IND – Bali)
Unknwn (PH)
Additional artists:
Aleceo
Arca Tatasawara
Arthur Yeti
Arun R
Aurora
Av Acquilla
Boom Lekha
Catur Hari Wijaya
David
Dion
DJ Rork
Dory
Economou
Gaby Endo
Gelly
GESON
Hartman
Hartwell
Harvy Abdurachman
Himmat
Hoda Fadel
Jakrin
Jfola
Jinny Ohh
Joga
JOSÉ
Jungle Kitchen
Kaiser Waldon
Kalimaya
Kiko Anpao
Larry Oz
Last Gentleman On Playa
Manish
Marika Paprika
Maurice Simon
Melted heart
Modjorido
Nayamul
Nic
Papa Gio
PAPÜ
POV
Poyan
Quentin dcr
RAAJ
Raio
Ritual Frequencies
Roba
Rob Rizk
Sabda Irama
Samantha Nicole
Sivanesh
Sophie Sofree
STAY GOLDEN
Swami Harami
Swamy
The Cook
The Karuhun
Thursdays Club
Tom Yeti
Tulzy
Uone
WAXWOOD
Willer
Yansan
