Josaphat’s journey with the guitar began in a unique way, through comics. He became interested in playing the guitar after reading a comic titled “Desperado.” He learned to play the guitar and formed a band in 2005, marking the start of his music career. Josaphat founded Killing Me Inside (KILMS) with Rendy, Onad, Raka, and Sansan, embracing the rock genre (Emo/Rock). They released their debut album, “A Fresh Start For Something New,” in 2008, launching it in Indonesia and Malaysia. The song “The Tormented” from this album won the ICEMA Cutting Edge Music Award for Favorite Emo Song.
Achievements
One of Killing Me Inside’s singles, “Tanpa Dirimu,” became the soundtrack for Rizal Mantovani’s film “Air Terjun Pengantin.” In 2009, Killing Me Inside joined the RPM label and released their second album, “Self-Titled.” They won the Indigo Awards 2010 for The Best Indie Music and The Best New Artist and received the AMI Awards 2011 for The Best Cover Album, as well as a nomination in the Newcomer category. Their “Self-Titled” album was nominated for the Best Rock Album at the AMI Awards 2012. The song “Biarlah” featuring Gading Martin was nominated for Best Rhythm and Blues Production Work, and it was also sung by actress Luna Maya and Tiffany Orie (Indonesian Idol). Their next album, “One Reason” (2012), featured a collaboration with senior musician PIYU PADI for the single “Bertarung.” Their subsequent album, “Rebirth: A New Beginning” (2014), led to Killing Me Inside representing Indonesia at the Busan Rock Festival 2016 in Busan, South Korea.
Personnel Changes and Collaborations
Personnel changes eventually led to a collaboration between KILMS and AiU Ratna (ex-Garasi) from 2017 to 2018, and the establishment of an indie record label called Anoixi Records, which housed KILMS. The project continued with Joe Tirta (ex_Saint Loco) from 2018 to 2019, and later with Ahmad Abdul (2022–2023). As of 2024, although they do not have a permanent vocalist, KILMS continues to collaborate and surprise their fans. Millions of viewers and listeners eagerly await KILMS’ works.
Additional Projects
Besides KILMS, Josaphat is part of the supergroup AIU with AiU Ratna, Wima, Axel Andaviar (ex_Cokelat), and Rudye (ex_KILMS), performing songs with a Japanese rock nuance. Over 19 years in the industry, various music brands have entrusted Josaphat as their brand ambassador, including NUX efx, SIRE Guitar, Rotosound strings, Enya Guitar, Just in Case Gigbag, and Nikisaga strap.
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JosaphatKlemens
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/josaphatklemens/