Nidji Rocks Jakarta Indisphere Band Competition Grand Final; Eleanore Takes Top Prize

The Grand Final of the Jakarta Indisphere Band Competition 2026 culminated in a vibrant celebration of independent music, drawing hundreds of spectators to M Bloc Live House in South Jakarta. The event concluded with the band Eleanore being crowned champion, taking home the top prize of Rp 25 million.

Headlining the festivities was the popular Indonesian band Nidji, whose performance served as the main draw for the audience. The grand final also featured other acts like Gledek and 510, alongside the compelling performances of the five finalist bands: Benny Tophot, Eleanore, Galipula, Graf, and EGO. Each finalist presented three songs to a panel of judges, including music observers and musicians David Tarigan, Muhammad Fauzan Lubis, and Endah Widiastuti.

Judges assessed the bands based on their musical quality, stage presence, and originality. Eleanore secured the first prize, with Galipula taking second place (Rp 15 million) and Benny Tophot third (Rp 10 million). Graf and EGO received consolation prizes as Harapan I and Harapan II winners, respectively. The competition, held as part of Jakarta's 499th anniversary celebrations, also provided finalists with insights into the independent music industry.

Competition curator Ryan Kampua noted the rigorous selection process, which began with over 50 online submissions, narrowed down to 10 for the qualifying round, and finally five for the grand final. He emphasized the difficulty in judging bands that submitted incomplete material, highlighting the importance of assessing full performances. Nidji's vocalist, Ubay, praised the event for nurturing young musicians, encouraging all participants to persevere in their musical journeys.