Indonesian pop-punk heroes Pee Wee Gaskins initially formed in Jakarta in 2007. Bassist and singer Dochi Sadega, a former metal guitarist, decided to assemble a new band around the more pop-oriented songs he'd been writing. Along with guitarists Sansan and Ayi Mahardhiki, keyboardist Omo Satiri, and drummer Aldy Kumis, the band made their debut with 2008's Stories from Our High School Years EP, which introduced their vibrant, melodic sound. Named after an American serial killer, Pee Wee Gaskins became an immediate cult hit in Indonesia, cultivating a loyal fan base who refer to themselves as "Party Dorks." Following the 2009 release of their debut album, The Sophomore, their success became more widespread with the help of their fans and social media savvy. Their follow-up, 2010's Ad Astra Per Aspera, featured a more guitar-heavy sound, with the synths taking a slightly smaller role. A handful of EPs arrived over the next few years as Pee Wee Gaskins' reputation grew and by 2015, they'd signed with Universal Music Indonesia. Their long-awaited third album, Youth Not Wasted, was released in February 2016. ~ Timothy Monger
