Beyond the curated sounds of Potato Head’s Klymaxx and Headstream, finding good music in Bali can feel elusive—unless you know where to look. Our music guide is your portal to the island’s most cherished spaces, where sounds from Indonesia and beyond come alive, creating a musical landscape that’s as diverse as Bali itself.

While Bali’s music scene is often dominated by the crowd-pleasing beats that cater to its tourism-driven nightlife, there are pockets of the island where things get more interesting. These smaller, underground scenes are where the true creative energy thrives, with intimate parties and events that offer something far more authentic than the typical holiday soundtracks.

If you’re keen to skip the shamanic house and find a sound that truly represents Indonesian talent alongside a curated mix of international artists, you’re in the right place. According to bavgs, the curator of this guide, Bali offers a rare opportunity for DJs.

“It’s one of the only places in Indonesia where you can work full-time as a DJ, with bars open daily and a constant demand for fresh sounds. The island’s soundtrack is influenced by the happy, uplifting music popular in this holiday destination.”