Radio Is A Foreign Country  056 – Wisisi (West Papua) – Mix

A selection of wisisi music from West Papua. Wisisi or “sapusa” is a dance and genre of music among indigenous peoples in the mountains of West Papua. According to some, it was originally a dance performed during mourning rituals among the Dani people. It was then introduced to neighboring tribes in the late 1990s and, since then, has exploded in popularity. This is especially the case among indigenous youth, who have created a more modern sound using keyboards, audio processors, and drum machines. Wisisi symbolizes cohesiveness and enthusiasm and is often performed to stir up passions in various contexts and situations, including political demonstrations. It appears that wisisi has circulated almost exclusively in the form of Youtube videos.

Many thanks to Kasimyn (Gabber Modus Operandi) for first introducing me to this beautiful music.

PHOTO CREDIT: ALIM BOEANA