In the high-octane world of Indonesian rock, few names carry as much rhythmic weight as Eno. As the drummer for NTRL, he has spent decades anchoring one of the country’s most influential punk-rock outfits, playing to massive crowds and navigating the complexities of a long-term career in the music industry. However, a recent performance proved that for Eno, the most rewarding stage isn’t always the one with the biggest pyrotechnics—sometimes, it is a school gymnasium.
In a heartwarming display of fatherly support, Eno recently stepped away from the spotlight to serve as the “additional” musician for his daughter, Nabuma Melodi Rianto. The performance took place during a pensi (pentas seni), the traditional Indonesian school arts festival that serves as a rite of passage for students exploring their creative identities. For Nabuma, it was a debut; for Eno, it was a moment of quiet pride.
The duo took to the stage at Yasporbi, where Nabuma handled the lead guitar duties. Choosing a track that mirrors the gritty, rebellious spirit of her father’s career, Nabuma performed Green Day’s “Brain Stew.” The song, known for its slow, brooding build-up and explosive release, provided the perfect canvas for a young musician to demonstrate poise and timing.
From Stadiums to School Stages
The dynamic on stage was a reversal of the typical professional hierarchy. Instead of leading the band, Eno positioned himself physically and symbolically behind his daughter. As Nabuma opened the track with the iconic, trudging guitar riff, Eno remained patient, waiting for the precise moment to enter the arrangement. To the crowd of students and parents, it was a star appearance; to Eno, it was a masterclass in watching his daughter find her own voice.
The footage of the event, captured and shared via social media, reveals a father visibly enamored by his child’s confidence. Between the crashes of the cymbals, Eno can be seen looking at Nabuma with an expression of genuine amazement. The audience’s reaction mirrored this sentiment, with cheers erupting as the veteran drummer synchronized his beats with Nabuma’s guitar work.
In his reflection on the performance, Eno emphasized the emotional weight of the moment over the technicality of the music. “I’m so proud of you, Uma,” he wrote in his caption, noting how calm and entertaining she remained during her first stage appearance. “Always looking at you behind the drumset… Papa love you so much.”
The Cultural Significance of the ‘Pensi’
To understand the weight of this moment, one must understand the role of the pensi in Indonesian youth culture. These festivals are more than just school assemblies; they are critical hubs for artistic expression and often serve as the first professional-style experience for aspiring musicians. By participating in his daughter’s school event, Eno did more than just provide backup percussion; he validated the importance of the arts in a supportive, family-oriented environment.
The choice of “Brain Stew” also speaks to a generational bridge. Green Day’s influence on the global punk scene in the 1990s paved the way for bands like NTRL to find their footing in Indonesia. By teaching and performing this track with Nabuma, Eno is passing down a musical lineage, introducing the next generation to the foundations of the genre that defined his own professional life.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Venue | Yasporbi School (Pensi Event) |
| Song Performed | “Brain Stew” by Green Day |
| Roles | Nabuma (Lead Guitar), Eno (Drums) |
| Videographer | Nadila Ernesta |
A Family Affair Behind the Lens
While the focus remained on the father-daughter duo, the moment was a complete family effort. The recording of the performance was handled by Eno’s wife, Nadila Ernesta, who captured the intimate glances and the energy of the crowd from the sidelines. This familial synergy highlights a side of the rock-and-roll lifestyle that is rarely seen in the press—one of stability, encouragement, and shared passion.
For a musician who has spent years in the loud, often chaotic environment of touring and recording, the shift to a supportive parental role appears to be a source of significant fulfillment. Eno’s invitation to “dig into other songs” (kulik lagu lain) suggests that this performance was not a one-off event, but the beginning of a collaborative musical journey between father and daughter.
As Nabuma continues her education and artistic development, the influence of having a seasoned professional as a mentor—and a cheerleader—cannot be overstated. The confidence displayed on the Yasporbi stage is a direct result of a safe environment where the “star” of the family is happy to play a supporting role.
While there are no currently scheduled public performances for the duo, Eno has expressed a clear desire to continue exploring their musical chemistry in private and school settings. Updates on Nabuma’s musical progress and further family collaborations are expected to be shared via Eno’s official social media channels.
Do you think more celebrity parents should take a “supporting role” in their children’s early performances? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
