Bimbim Slank Says Banyuwangi Is Developing Rapidly

Banyuwangi (ANTARA) – Bimbim, drummer and frontman of the band Slank, says Banyuwangi Regency in East Java has undergone major changes. One sign of its rapid development, he said, is the growing number of hotels in the area.

The legendary band Slank will meet fans in Banyuwangi again as part of its “Berani Kita Beda Tour” (the 10th Hey Slank Tour) at Marina Boom Beach on Sunday night (1 November).

“Banyuwangi has changed so much. There used to be only one [hotel], but now there are good hotels everywhere,” Bimbim said at a press conference in Banyuwangi, East Java, on Sunday.

He said Slank had performed in Banyuwangi several times since first visiting in 1992.

“There’s a memory from 1992 that I can never forget: we wrote the song ‘Kirim Aku Bunga’ in Banyuwangi,” Bimbim said.

As well as the song, Bimbim said he had fond memories of Banyuwangi’s food, particularly nasi tempong, a local speciality known for its spicy sambal.

“Yes, I tried Sego Tempong with Bunda back then. It was emotional, but when I think of Banyuwangi, I think of nasi tempong; its sambal is addictive,” Bimbim said.

Before the concert, Slank’s members were shown several parts of the Banyuwangi regency hall, including bunker-style accommodation normally used to host distinguished guests.

The group also visited Sritanjung Well, which is linked to the legend of Banyuwangi’s origins, and saw a traditional Osing house.